The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA®) and Boating Writers International (BWI) honored Yamaha Marine with an Innovation Award in the propulsion parts and propellers category for its Helm Master® EX Wireless Control System.

Putting unmatched convenience and control in the palm of boaters’ hands, the new Helm Master EX Wireless Control System gives boat operators the ability to move around the boat while remaining in complete control at all times.* Available in single through quint configurations, the Wireless Control System allows captains to maintain full joystick boat control while freeing up one hand tossing lines or adjusting fenders.

“Wireless Control is a true game-changer for captains, giving them additional confidence and freedom on the water without sacrificing control,” said Cortlandt Minnich, Product Manager, Outboard Control Systems, U.S. Yamaha Marine Business Unit. “From joystick maneuvering to features like the integrated man overboard fobs, the system brings advanced technology and peace of mind together in one intuitive package. The Yamaha team is honored to accept this award.”

The buoyant Wireless Control System has access to Helm Master EX Autopilot functionality, allowing captains to set heading and course, making adjustments on the fly. StayPoint®, FishPoint®, and DriftPoint® are also available in the palm of the captain’s hand. Single-handed operation is possible thanks to an added fingertip button. In addition, captains can operate the engine controls during anchoring from the Wireless Control System.

The system also features integrated man overboard (MOB) fobs. The Helm Master EX Wireless Control System includes one captain and one passenger fob and supports up to eight MOB fobs equipped with a wristband or lanyard to help keep track of the crew onboard.

Though designed for eight hours of use, for greater convenience and a more customized boating experience, boaters can charge the new Wireless Control System with a charging cradle that can be placed anywhere on the boat.

Available for dealer installation in Fall 2025, the Helm Master EX Wireless Control System can be added to any Helm Master EX that is updated to the newest Helm Master EX software version.

The Innovation Awards program is one of the marine industry’s most prestigious honors. It recognizes products that demonstrate innovative distinction from other products, with tangible benefits for both consumers and the marine industry. The Innovation Awards’ judging committee is comprised of BWI members who perform product testing throughout the year and have specific expertise in marine OEM products and equipment.

Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit, based in Kennesaw, Ga., markets and sells marine outboard motors ranging in size from 2.5 to 450 horsepower. It also engineers, manufactures, markets, and sells boat control systems, IOT control devices, fiberglass, jet-drive sport boats ranging from 19 to 29 feet, and personal watercraft. The unit includes the manufacturing divisions of Yamaha Marine Systems Co., Inc., including Yamaha Marine Rotational Molders of Milwaukee (rotational molding), Bennett Marine of Deerfield Beach, Fla. (trim tabs), and Yamaha Marine Precision Propellers of Indianapolis (stainless steel propellers). Yamaha Marine Business Unit is a division of Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A., based in Cypress, Calif.