METS is the world's leading trade show for recreational boat equipment and took place in Amsterdam from November 18-20, 2014. It was during the breakfast briefing on Thursday, November 18, prior to the show's opening, that the winner of the DAME (METS Design Award) as well as the winners in each category were announced. For this 24th ème edition, the jury had to choose among 116 products from 23 countries and nominated 45 products for the final choice. In the end, 6 products won the jury's final vote in their respective categories, and a grand prize winner was honored. Bill Dixon, the president of the jury, presented the prestigious DAME 2 014 award to Jefa Steering Traveller from Denmark. 12 special mentions were also awarded to products deserving of praise.
Jefa Steering Traveller wins the DAME 2014
In the category " Deck equipment, sails and rigging" is the Jefa Steering Traveller which was approved by the jury. It is also the big winner of this year's edition. It eliminates the need for bulky steering quadrants and improves rudder feedback in the case of a double rudder. Particular attention was paid to the economy of installation space as well as to the weight of the product. The jury particularly appreciated the elegance of the approach.
É rescue and safety equipment
This is the Exposure MOB Search Light which was elected. This lamp designed by Exposure Marine and Ultimate Sports Engineering, is a powerful and beautifully designed LED torch that has several uses. It can be used as a handheld flashlight, but it also serves as a beacon and light in case of a fall in the sea. It floats on the surface and emits a powerful flashing light that allows the castaway to find their way.
Marine Electronics and Software
The big winner is the weBBoat 4G from Glomex. The weBBoat 4G is an integrated 3G / 4G / Wifi antenna system that makes it easy to get high speed internet in coastal areas. Only one unit is needed and can be installed with minimal wiring. A SIM card can be integrated to get 3G and 4G connectivity but the weBBoat 4G uses mainly wifi signals, as soon as they are detected. The jury appreciated the product's simplicity, compact design and all-in-one approach to a growing area of interest in the maritime industry.
Interior equipment, furnishings, materials and electrical connections used in the cabins
This is the SilKEN2 Induction Cooktop which won an award. Kenyon has succeeded in creating a refined and aesthetically pleasing touch-controlled induction cooktop for the marine environment. Features such as smart heat and power management are welcome. What caught the jury's eye above all was the silicone cooking mat that withstands high temperatures and provides an ideal gripping surface for pots and pans. In addition, the SilKEN2 induction cooker is scratch-free and easy to clean.
Machines, propulsion, mechanical and electrical systems and installations
This is the battery Pro Installer EZ-Mount Battery Switches from Mastervolt / Marinco that caught the attention of the jury. They really appreciated the simplicity and ease of use of this battery. Here, all you have to do is install the base, connect the cables, attach the actuator and then replace the cover. The switches integrate very well with the rest of the line.
Marina equipment, yard equipment and boat building tools and materials
The winner is Seabung . This product stood out for the simplicity of the idea to solve a recurring problem. The Seabung is a tool that allows you to inspect or repair a hull valve without having to bring your ship back to port. This accessory is placed in the valve and creates an impermeable plug while waiting to repair the element. Once the valve is raised, the Seabung can be removed and reused for the next time.
