Parties all round

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

Wow what a great weekend! We received a few calls on Monday morning with clients relaying their experiences and memories whilst moored up at the AAM Cowes Week last Friday night. Watching a marvelous display presented by the Red Arrows and a huge 20-minute countdown fireworks display just by the Royal Yacht Squadron line.

Parties-all-round

"Could not believe my eyes when they integrated the canons with the countdown fireworks, unbelievable and breath taking"

Sunday saw the start of the historical Fastnet race at mid-day, with thousands watching internationally live online. Helicopters were buzzing over the top of Cowes and the multihulls flying off the start line heading west. Many of our local clients here in Weymouth motored out towards Portland later that day to see the action. A replay of this start can be seen online http://fastnet.rorc.org/ The parties continued at the finish in Plymouth with the first boat across the line, Spindrift the 131-foot trimaran in an elapsed 38 hours 53min 58sec with co-skippers Dona Bertarelli, sister of America's cup winner Ernesto, and Yann Guichard celebrating in style.

Back to base, polished and cleaned and delivered from Cowes is a new arrival, a lovely Sealine SC35 which has been placed up for sale with us - http://www.jdyachts.com/listed-boat/view.php?id=711.

With less than a month to go, the fun continues next month with the Southampton International Boat Show, which starts on the 13th – 22nd September.