Grand Banks Yatchs was voted Best Asian Motor Yacht builder at the fourth edition of the Christofle Asia Boating Awards. The company earned the top spot in the 40-70 foot category, during ceremonies held here today at Le Royal Meridien.

"We're very honored by this prestigious award," said Grand Banks President Rob Livingston. "When the company began here in Asia in 1956, there wasn't an organized recreational boating industry in this region. Our original factory was nestled among fishing for boat villages. It's been truly remarkable to see such a large and vital industry grow up around us, as we've grown ourselves these past 50 years."

The Christofle Asia Boating Awards show is widely known as the region's premier event, aiming to recognize the best of the maritime industry. The annual event, created by Asia-Pacific Boating and China Boating magazines, was first held in 2005.

"The awards are our region's way of rewarding and acknowledging the great work of our ever-expanding leisure maritime industry," said publisher Oliver Burdot. "This is the chance for Asia to celebrate its achievement as a growing center of luxury boating. We can all feel proud to be a part of this exciting time in the industry's history."

The Christolfe award is the latest in a series of accolades earned by Grand Banks for its operations in Singapore and Malaysia. The company was also recently honored with a 2007 Employer Award and Malaysia's Industry Excellence Award, among others.

"So much of the credit for this award goes to the incredible team of skilled, dedicated professionals at our factories," said Mr. Livingston. "Many of them have been with Grand Banks for thirty, forty years or more."

"They not only helped to build our boat boats and our company – they've helped to build up an entire industry here in Asia."