13 November 2025
Inland Association leads the way with the inaugural 2025 Sector Awards
British Marine is delighted to announce the first winners of its brand-new Sector Association Awards programme, with the Inland Association proudly leading the way as the first sector to recognise and celebrate its outstanding members.
At the British Marine Inland Conference on 13 November, three exceptional Inland Association member businesses were recognised for their achievements, innovation, and commitment to excellence within the inland boating community.
Business of the Year Award
Recognising exceptional overall performance, leadership, customer satisfaction, and contribution to the marine industry.
Winner: ABNB
Celebrating 30 years as a proudly independent, family-run brokerage, ABNB stood out for its enduring commitment to professionalism, integrity, and exceptional customer service. Under the leadership of Emma and Justin Green, the company blends traditional values with innovation, adopting new technologies while preserving its hallmark personal approach. With its dedicated team and outstanding client loyalty, ABNB continues to set the standard for excellence within the inland waterways community.
Product or Service Award
Recognising outstanding, innovative, or improved product or service that enhances the customer experience.
Winner: Grand Union Narrowboats
With a decade of excellence, Grand Union Narrowboats impressed voters with its outstanding customer service and consistently high levels of satisfaction, reflected in glowing reviews across Google and TripAdvisor. With a strong focus on delivering memorable experiences and personal attention to every guest, Grand Union Narrowboats has built a trusted reputation for quality and professionalism, setting the standard for customer care within the inland waterways sector.
Sustainability Award
Recognising strong commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable business practices across their operations.
Winner: Cafwin Cruises Narrowboat Holidays Ltd
Cafwin Cruises impressed voters with its genuine commitment to sustainability and innovation, leading the way as one of the UK’s first eco-friendly, electric hybrid narrowboat hire companies. Since its launch in 2018, the business has combined luxury with environmental responsibility, using natural and biodegradable products, noise-reducing technology, and solar-powered systems to minimise its environmental impact. Partnering with Ortomarine, Cafwin Cruises became the first UK hire company to introduce an electric hybrid boat to the holiday market—cutting fuel use by over half—and has since converted its entire fleet. With continual efforts to refine and improve its eco credentials, Cafwin Cruises exemplifies how small businesses can make a big difference in driving sustainability across the inland waterways.
It’s been fantastic to see so many of our members come together to celebrate the outstanding work taking place across the inland sector. Each of our winners has shown real passion, innovation, and dedication to both their customers and the waterways we all cherish. These awards are a great way to recognise that commitment and to showcase the quality and professionalism that defines our industry.
Ed Helps Chair of the British Marine Inland AssociationWith the awards programme now underway, participating sector associations will each recognise their own outstanding members between now and July 2026. The series will culminate in a national celebration of excellence at the 2026 Southampton International Boat Show, where all sector winners will go head-to-head for top honours in the National Finals, held during Trade Tuesday.
We are delighted to see the first of our Sector Association Awards take place and to begin celebrating the incredible achievements of our members. These awards are all about recognising excellence across all sectors - from innovative products and sustainable initiatives to outstanding customer service and leadership. It’s a fantastic opportunity to highlight the breadth of talent across our industry and to bring our members together in celebration of their success.
Lesley Robinson CEO at British MarineFurther details on upcoming Sector Association Awards, including entry dates and categories, will be announced soon. In the meantime, if you have any questions please contact your Sector Association Secretary for more information.