Beneteau Group

The MCY 105 takes an impressive step over the 100-foot threshold.

Have yacht owners become too reliant on their boat’s sophisticated systems? Don Hyde, CEO of Vessel Vanguard, a company that offers a maintenance-reminder system, thinks so. At the same time, they have precious little choice.

The first AIM Marine Group Editor’s Choice Lifetime Achievement Award went to Annette Bénéteau-Roux, an elegant, petite woman who has steered the Beneteau Group through thick and thin since 1964. Roux came to Fort Lauderdale to accept her Lifetime Achievement Award.

We first saw this refreshingly innovative flybridge yacht in Cannes in 2010, where Monte Carlo Yachts made its world debut with the first MCY 76, Georgia. Built in Italy, this brand belongs to Groupe Beneteau, a French company with deep roots in the US market.

Part of French boating group Beneteau, Prestige showcases this attractive 50-footer that combines harmonious design, power and safety. Wide side decks, a sun pad forward, a spacious aft deck sheltered by the nicely appointed flybridge, a swim platform and a hydraulic gangway facilitate life outdoors.