Against the backdrop of METSTRADE in Amsterdam 2025, the YachtAwards by Yacht Femme drew a full audience on Tuesday 18th of November to recognise women reshaping the superyacht landscape. Hosted live on the Metstrade Superyacht Stage, the ceremony marked a defining moment for an industry still working to broaden representation and spotlight female leadership.

The event opened to a packed room: a visual testament to the momentum behind Yacht Femme’s mission to empower women in yachting. Attendees from across the sector, including designers, shipyards, brokers, crew, suppliers, and media, gathered to acknowledge the growing call for inclusivity and visibility within the industry.

Andrea Tagliaferro and Francesca Ragnetti set the tone with an energetic welcome, underscoring the collective purpose of community and recognition. This energy was amplified by a keynote address from Barrett Wright. Her remarks on leadership and mutual support resonated strongly with an audience accustomed to navigating the pressures and complexities of a global industry.

The 2025 YachtAwards celebrated three women whose achievements stand as milestones in their respective fields:

Rising Star of the Year: Sophie Spicknell

Recognised for her emerging influence and fast-growing contributions, Spicknell represents the next wave of talent entering the superyacht sector with fresh perspective and momentum. Her win signals the industry’s increasing emphasis on early-career leadership and pathways for young professionals.

Entrepreneur of the Year: Jill Bobrow

Honoured for her entrepreneurial vision and longstanding impact, Bobrow’s recognition highlights the expanding footprint of women driving business innovation and shaping the narrative of yachting through media, partnerships, and enterprise. Her award underscores the growing presence of female founders and decision-makers in a space historically led by men.

Trailblazer of the Year: Rosie O’Donnell

Awarded for her pioneering spirit, boundary-breaking career, and advocacy, O’Donnell’s win reflects a broader cultural shift, acknowledging the importance of women who redefine roles and challenge norms within the sector. The Trailblazer category stood as the symbolic heart of the ceremony, celebrating success and transformation.

A platform with purpose

While the awards highlighted individual achievement, the event’s wider impact lies in the visibility it gives to women across all levels of the industry.

Many attendees noted that moments like this are foundational to cultural change. Recognition, they argued, can be a catalyst: inspiring new entrants, encouraging retention, and reinforcing that the superyacht industry offers space to both lead and participate.