Propspeed Foulfree Multi-Surface Wins 2026 IBEX Innovation Award

An award focuses attention on the equipment attached to a yacht's hull

Propspeed's Foulfree Multi-Surface coating has received a 2026 IBEX Innovation Award in the Boat Care and Maintenance category. It shared the distinction with Spectrum Color's TouchPro during the Tampa trade show's awards programme on 6 October, recognised through judging organised with Boating Writers International.

The product addresses a part of antifouling work that can be overshadowed by the main hull. Transducers, interceptors, thruster components and other underwater fittings may suffer from marine growth but cannot necessarily be treated with the same materials used on hull plating.

Marine growth can affect individual systems in different ways

A depth transducer needs to transmit and receive signals properly, while an interceptor or thruster relies on the movement of water around its surfaces. Biological accumulation can create additional resistance, obscure sensing faces or make routine operation more difficult.

Those problems may appear gradually during a season, making them easy to overlook until a yacht is hauled ashore. Choosing a protective treatment therefore requires understanding which component is involved and whether its manufacturer allows a particular coating.

Foulfree was developed for several non-metal surfaces

Propspeed's Multi-Surface system is promoted as a three-stage, non-toxic fouling-release application for a range of non-metallic equipment. The award judging highlighted the broader compatibility sought by the formulation, rather than recognising a claim that one product can be applied indiscriminately to every underwater system.

Application still depends on proper surface preparation, cure conditions and the manufacturer's procedure. A poorly applied coating may not offer the intended protection and could complicate later servicing, especially on delicate sensor housings or moving parts.

Refit yards need a plan for the whole underwater package

A scheduled haul-out is an opportunity to inspect multiple parts of the submerged equipment system at once. Hull cleaning, stabiliser work, transducer maintenance and thruster servicing may involve different contractors and distinct surface-treatment requirements.

Coordinating those tasks in advance can help avoid repeat access work or applying a coating over a component that still needs mechanical repair. Yacht managers should retain records of products used and any exclusions specified by equipment suppliers.

The award is useful but not a universal performance guarantee

IBEX recognised multiple products across marine industry categories during its 2026 programme. Propspeed's recognition shows that judges considered Foulfree Multi-Surface an innovative offering in its field.

Actual performance will depend on the vessel's cruising pattern, temperature, water conditions, equipment materials and correct installation. Owners should interpret the prize as a product-level industry distinction rather than proof that every yacht can extend its haul-out interval or eliminate underwater maintenance.