Sealine S34 – Emily Kate 3

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

Dublin to Weymouth

I always love a delivery from Ireland and one of the reasons is that I’m a quarter Irish and they have a lovely sense of humour over there!

This particular delivery was slightly delayed due a windy spell and high waves on the Irish Sea. I always get a good indication of what the following day has in hold when flying in to Dublin and over the sea. There were a few remaining seahorses presenting themselves.

The Sealine S34 is a lovely boat with two solid Volvo Penta engines. A simple cockpit layout for a small family or a few friends enjoying a good day out on the water. Down below two cabins, one shower / toilet and combined galley and saloon will best serve anyone wanting a quick weekend getaway.

Everything on the Sealine is incredibly easy to use and you don’t even need to think where fuses boxes or the battery isolators are because this is a common sense boat with everything placed to hand.

On the water and heading out to the Irish Sea on course for South Wales and the English Channel, the wind was behind me, trim tabs up. The boat was cruising with ease for what should be a coastal boat but with the ambition to head out to a good sea. Sitting at the helm the view was excellent ahead and astern, with all the controls / switches to hand, the slight down fall was the position of the plotter, but this could be rectified very easily.

The boat over a distance of 380 nautical miles handled beautifully with the elegance of a solid British sports cruiser. The owner now enjoying every aspect of her on the English Riviera.