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

The London On-Water Boat Show has been renamed, rebranded and relaunched as London Yacht Show and will take place on-water at St Katharine Docks this May 8-12 2019.
Previously known as London On-Water Boat Show, the renamed London Yacht Show will fill the requirement for manufacturers and dealers who attract high end net-worth customers. This unique event will deliver a great platform to showcase their models, on water, in the City of London.
 
Announcing the newly branded event, which will have a primary focus on luxury lifestyle, Andrew Williams, President, Maritime, Informa Global Exhibitions, said: “Since we acquired this event at the end of 2018, we have worked to understand the needs of the event’s exhibitors and have consequently taken the decision that we needed to relaunch this event with a brand new focus on luxury lifestyle yachting and boating, complemented by luxury brands.”
 
The Yacht show market is not new to the Informa business which has a portfolio of world class maritime events including the prestigious Monaco Yacht Show in Europe as well as the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show and the upcoming Miami Yacht Show.
 
Williams added: “St Katharine Docks is perfect for such an event and we will continue to work with this iconic setting which is steeped in heritage and truly unique.
“In addition, we are delighted that our new partnership with British Marine, the UK’s trade association for the leisure, superyacht and small commercial marine industry and organisers of Southampton Boat Show, is firmly cemented and they support the relaunch of this new event.”
 
Commenting on the partnership, Lesley Robinson, CEO, British Marine, said: “This alliance will deepen the show’s ties to the UK yachting and boating industry and enable key partners, from yacht builders and brokers to luxury goods manufacturers, to participate in shaping the development and growth of London Yacht Show in the future.”
 
As part of its relaunch, London Yacht Show, will open on the Wednesday for an exclusive VIP Elite function and press afternoon which will give guests the opportunity to preview the over 60 yachts and boats on display.
 
St Katharine Docks will host two floating villages with full size event marquees including a Platinum Pavilion, featuring luxury yachting and lifestyle products and a Monument Marquee, featuring marine ‘toys’ and boating accessories.
 
The Docks’ Marble Quay will also feature a parade of super cars, bikes, trailer boats and VIP ticket holders can also enjoy a floating champagne bar; in addition to a VIP Lounge and Concierge service.
 
Tickets will be available for visitors to purchase at the beginning of February through the website: www.londonyachtshow.com
 
The London Yacht Show will open: Wednesday 8: 2pm – 9pm (VIP Elite & Press Only) – this is the pre-show viewing for VIP Elite pass holders only.
 
Visitors can purchase tickets to attend: Thursday 9: 11am – 8pm; Friday 10: 11am – 8pm; Saturday 11: 10am – 6pm and Sunday 12: 10am – 5pm.
 

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