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

To celebrate its 50th birthday boot Düsseldorf will be bigger and better than ever. The event takes place 19 - 27 January
 
 
The world’s largest boat and water sports fair, boot Düsseldorf, promises to be a special event in celebration of its 50th anniversary, held over nine days in January 2019
 
Nearly 2,000 exhibitors – including market leaders such as Princess, Jeanneau, Bénéteau and Bavaria – make the most of 16 different exhibition halls on the banks of the Rhine to premiere new boats and show off the latest marine equipment, innovations and designs.
 
Exhibits and water-filled installations capture the sensation of sailing at sea or riding a wave. The fair also gives you the chance to see the latest luxury yachts up close with large-sized yachts and a Superyacht Show on display in their own halls. With three halls devoted to sailing boats and no less than five to motorboats and powerboats, there are boats of all shapes and sizes, meaning there’s something for everyone.
 
 
“boot Düsseldorf is the only trade fair in the world that truly represents the diversity of the industry and scene. With manufacturers from over 70 countries throughout the world expected to attend, we are unique in exhibiting such a wide range of product diversity,” explains boot Director Petros Michelidakis. “1,500 sailing and motor boats have found their trade fair home at boot.”
 
Visitors are equally diverse, coming from over 100 different countries. Michelidakis adds: “This means that boot is not simply a show for regional visitors, rather, it is a recognised international industry event.”
 
Getting down to the detail, there’s plenty of opportunities to explore the latest boat instruments, engines, technical equipment, boating accessories and even watersports fashion.
 
 
Adding to the mix, the show boasts themed areas bringing watersport adventures and activities to life including a diving centre, sailing school, Kids’ World and Trendsport hall where surfboarders take on deep-water installation THE WAVE.
 
Made for people who can’t get enough of being out on the water, the fair covers canoes, kayaks, rowing, rafting, waterskiing, wakeboarding, jetskiing and fishing as well as maritime art and ocean conservation. A dedicated area provides inspiration for cruises, beach resorts, travel and boating holidays and increasingly popular charters.
 
 
It wouldn’t be a show without an awards ceremony and boot Düsseldorf is where the European Yacht of the Year Award is held, with 19 yachts competing in five categories. The winners, chosen by an international jury, are presented at the Flagship Night. But every visitor gets to size up nominated yachts in detail in the exhibition halls. Part of the fun is picking a personal favourite from some of the world’s most impressive boats, all together in one place.
 
 
The boot Düsseldorf trade fair in Düsseldorf, Germany runs from 19 to 27 January and is open from 10am to 6pm every day. Admission tickets, priced €19 for a daily ticket, €11 reduced fee and €7 for children between 7 and 12 years, can be ordered online at www.boat-duesseldorf.com and printed at home. Tickets entitle holders to use the Rhine-Ruhr public transport system free of charge.
 

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