Kampenhout, Belgium – DOCKMATE®, manufacturer of advanced wireless remote control systems for yachts, announced today its next-generation marine control technology, the DOCKMATE PRO, has been awarded the 2026 Miami International Boat Show Innovation Award in the Propulsion Equipment & Parts category.
Organized by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and judged by members of Boating Writers International (BWI), the awards recognize innovative distinction from other boats and products currently being manufactured, benefit to the marine industry and consumers, practicality and cost-effectiveness. The awards were announced during the Discover Boating® Miami International Boat Show’s Industry Breakfast held at the Miami Beach Convention Center on Feb.12, 2026.
“We’d like to offer our thanks to the NMMA, BWI and the judges for bestowing the DOCKMATE PRO with this honored award,” said Dirk Illegems, president of DOCKMATE. “The DOCKMATE PRO seamlessly combines redundant safety, intuitive control and smart environmental sensing in a sleek and durable package that will enhance boater confidence like never before. We’re confident that vessel operators will appreciate the level of technology and innovations featured in this remote.”
“With proportional lever controls, DOCKMATE PRO has seriously upped the game for aftermarket remote controlled shift and throttle, faithfully recreating a proper helm in handheld form,” said judge Kelsy Bailey. “Even better, this new remote is wonderfully tactile, with plenty of feedback. It felt immediately intuitive.”
Offering truly proportional control, the DOCKMATE PRO proportional lever system allows for ultra-smooth, intuitive modulation of both engines and thrusters. Rather than binary “on/off” commands, operators enjoy precise, tactile control that mirrors the natural feel of manual throttles — perfect for tight quarters, docking, or maneuvering in challenging conditions. Each control lever features dual independent channels, both magnetic and capacitive, delivering redundancy that ensures continued operation even in the event of a single system fault. This layered design reflects aviation-grade safety thinking, now applied to marine controls. To meet growing demands of boat owners and to simplify understanding the various modes of operation, a two-inch backlit black-and-white DOCKMATE ClearView sunlight-readable LCD display provides immediate, clear access to status updates, configuration settings, alarm codes, and more. This is paired with dual RGB LED indicators that give at-a-glance system health and remote status feedback. A built-in light sensor dynamically adjusts backlighting on the display and keypad, ensuring optimal visibility in all conditions — from bright sun to nighttime cruising.
With dedicated buttons for DPS (Dynamic Positioning System) activation, control mode selection, command handover, and intuitive on-screen menus, the interface is designed with real-world marine operation in mind. The remote includes a STOP button for instant shutdown and a built-in accelerometer that automatically halts commands if the unit is dropped, preventing unintended propulsion, a critical safeguard during active docking or emergency scenarios.
A robust internal battery delivers up to 24 hours of continuous use on a single charge. When not in use, the remote recharges wirelessly via a Qi charging cradle, eliminating corrosion-prone ports and cables. With an operating range of up to 50 meters (164 feet), a fully waterproof IP67 rating, and a design that floats, this remote is built to perform in demanding marine environments without compromise.
For more information on DOCKMATE and their wireless remote control systems, visit their website at www.dockmate.eu.
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About DOCKMATE®:DOCKMATE develops intuitive control solutions for motorized vessels, with a strong focus on reliability, ease of use, and practical innovation. DOCKMATE systems are used worldwide by both recreational boaters and professional operators, delivering confidence and control in demanding maritime environments.