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 use of red diesel for the propulsion of leisure craft has become unlawful in the Republic of Ireland from 1 January 2020. As a result, most marina fuel pumps in Ireland will only deliver fully-taxed white diesel and/or petroleum.
 
Below is the official Notice:
 
Marine Notice No. 52 of 2019
Notice to all Masters, Owners and Users of Pleasure and Recreational Craft. Prohibition on the use of marked gas oil in private pleasure craft. The [Ireland] Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport wishes to inform the public of the Department of Finance’s intention to change the law regarding the use of Marked Gas Oil for Private Pleasure Navigation from 1 January 2020.
 
The requirement to amend the relevant legislation arises from a ruling made by the Court of Justice of the European Union in October 2018. Section 40 of the Finance Bill 2019 proposes an amendment to Chapter 1 of Part 2 of the Finance Act 1999 in order to implement the Court decision and ensure compatibility with the Energy Tax Directive (Directive 2003/96/EC) and the Fiscal Marking Directive (Directive 95/60/EC) on a legislative basis. The proposed amendment will take effect from 1 January. From that date, the use of marked gas fuel as a propellant by private pleasure craft will be prohibited.
 
EU Directive 2003/96 defines “private pleasure craft” as “any craft used by its owner or the natural or legal person who enjoys its use either through hire or through any other means, for other than commercial purposes and in particular other than for the carriage of passengers or goods or for the supply of services for consideration or for the purposes of public authorities.”
 
General information on mineral oil tax on heavy oil (diesel) used for private pleasure navigation can be obtained directly from the Office of the Revenue Commissioners and it is understood that they will prepare guidance material for the Revenue website and update the relevant Tax and Duty Manuals in advance of commencement of the new arrangements on 1 January 2020.
 

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