Designer Dibley’s top award

NEW ZEALAND-BASED yacht designer, Kevin Dibley, was named the 2017 Yacht Designer of the Year at the Asian Marine and Boating Awards.

The event was held during the recent China International Boat Show in Shanghai.

Alistair Skinner, Judges Coordinator for the Awards says he has followed Kevin’s work for some time, especially the boats he has drawn for Asian builders, and have always noted the fairness of the lines.

“Perhaps he is not yet as recognised quite as much as some of the previous Award winners, but I am sure that is only a matter of time especially as the Asian arena is one of the growth hot-spots in the global leisure marine market.”

Dibley says he is truly honoured to receive the award. “Though it was awarded in my name, all the people contributing to the Dibley Design Team share this win as the synergy each team member brings is crucial to our projects.

“Our Asian clients have become a very important part of our design success of late and we thank those who have put faith in our work over there. Whether it is racing yachts, cruising yachts or powerboats, our diverse portfolio and clientele have kept the team busy and on their toes, and we look forward too many more years of success in the Asian market.” Dibley is the first New Zealander to win the award. Previous winners include the late Ed Dubois, Uk-based Bill Dixon, Irish-based designer Mark Mills, Italian superyacht designer Horacio Bozzo and Dutch superyacht designer Cor D’rover. www.dibleymarine.com