Buyers Paradise

A Farewell and Heartfelt Thank You from JD Yachts

After 25 extraordinary years, JD Yachts will be closing its doors.

This has not been an easy decision—but it’s one we’ve made with deep reflection and immense pride in all that we’ve achieved. We set out to build a company grounded in trust, transparency, and a passion for getting people on the water. We believe we’ve done just that.

To our clients—some of whom have been with us from the very beginning—we owe everything. Your unwavering support and trust shaped our journey. Many of you returned to us time and again for your boating needs, and that loyalty became the foundation of our business. We’re honoured to have helped so many families and individuals realise their dreams of yachting across the UK and the Mediterranean.

To our industry colleagues, tradespeople, and the marinas who welcomed and supported our work—you made this possible. The collaborative spirit and shared commitment to excellence within the marine sector gave JD Yachts its wings. We always sought to drive business back into local trades and infrastructures, and we’re proud to have played a part in sustaining that ecosystem.

To our dedicated team—Toby Hawkins and Isabella O’Leary—thank you for your incredible contribution, professionalism, and commitment to our shared mission. You’ve been integral to our journey and success.

A special thank you to our families for your constant support, patience, and belief in us—especially through the demanding times. JD Yachts has always been about more than just boats; it’s been about people, partnerships, and heart.

The current business climate, especially for SMEs in the marine sector, has become increasingly complex and challenging—particularly in relation to post-Brexit trade regulations and the double taxation of vessels between the UK and EU. These conditions have made it nearly impossible to scale sustainably or operate competitively abroad. We believe it’s important to acknowledge how much the industry has changed—and how vital it is to protect what was once a thriving cornerstone of Britain’s maritime heritage.

As we close this chapter, we do so with enormous gratitude for every client, colleague, and friend we’ve met along the way. The memories, the adventures, and the trust you placed in us will stay with us forever.

Thank you for letting JD Yachts be part of your story. We are proud of the legacy we leave behind.

With heartfelt thanks,

Darren & Justin

Off Canvas

On delivery this week out of Cowes our captain Ben brought a Fairline Targa 34 round to Portland to be lifted for survey. As you can see by the pictures below, even Photoshop couldn't help us here. It looks pretty gloomy to say the least, but as with all seasons we have to get through winter and let’s face it, with the heating on in the cock pit and the wind on the stern it still beats being in the office or stuck on the M25.

Fairline Targa 34

There is a definite change it feels in the seasons and this has all ways been the case for us, when it’s sunny the phones and emails are quieter than if it’s raining and blowing a hooley. This time of year is a buyer’s paradise and starting now on your search for a boat to be in service for next season is a wise move, if you take full advantage of starting the season early you should be in good shape.

We are busy all year, with the amazing Google and its clever search analytics tools we can see with a push of a button the flow of traffic to our site and the peaks in activity, this clearly shows us the boating season and the months when the weather was at its best.

If you would like us to go through your boat report and discuss the traffic and activity we have been getting outside of our regular updates don't forget to pop in or give us a call. Stay warm.

Fairline Targa 34 Portland Marina