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

Portland_to_Play_Key_Role_in_Developing_Future_Sunseeker_Products.jpg
 
Portland will play a key role in developing future Sunseeker products, it has been revealed.
 
Last month, Sunseeker, a boat manufacturing firm, announced that it will double its range of products to 22 models over the next three years.
 
A move which will see greater investment in its site at Osprey Quay.
 
It comes after the luxury boat builder saw profits grow from £1.1m in 2017 to £6.6m last year.
 
A very different picture from five year ago, when the company lost £41m and shed 300 jobs.
 
Michael Straughan, COO of Sunseeker, said: “We recently announced a major new product development plan for Sunseeker International and our Portland facility is critical to realise these future plans. Osprey Quay is the centre of excellence for moulding technology within the Sunseeker group and with our ambitious product plan in place, we are currently investing in the site and the staff we have based there.”
 
Craig Oakes, President of Weymouth and Portland Chamber of Commerce, has welcomed investment in the site, but is now calling for the development of a Western Relief Road.
 
He said: “This news that Sunseeker see Portland as a pivotal part for their process is great for the area. This will mean increased employment and will also highlight that another major international player in industry chooses the Weymouth and Portland area to run a large part of their operations from. Let’s hope infrastructure is now looked at and invested in to alleviate the travel issues to and from Portland.”
 
Meanwhile, Andrea Frabetti, who was named as Sunseeker’s chief executive last year after the resignation of Christian Marti, said: “I’m extremely happy with our performance in 2018.
 
“Looking ahead, we will further develop the framework for the business and drive the Sunseeker brand forward to even greater success, aided by a £50m CAPEX (capital expenditure) investment in research and development, new products, innovation and technology over the next five years. This investment means our product development plan will see a doubling of the product range to 22 models over the next three years.
 
“The response we have had for our latest models has been incredible. Our future models will include new product segments, as well as improved differentiation between various lines, all of which will help us to continue to grow profitably.”
 

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