Marine stabilization for smaller boats

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

Marine-stabilization-for-smaller-boats

Seakeeper continues to innovate with the launch of the smallest unit ever, and for the first time making stabilization available for boats as small as 23 ft.

The leader in marine stabilization, has just launched its newest, smallest and most radically different model yet, the Seakeeper 1. Designed to eliminate up to 95% of boat roll on vessels between 23-30 feet (7-9 meters) or up to 5.5 tons.

The announcement of the new Seakeeper 1 coincides with annual product development workshops that Boating World holds at its Cape Town offices.

“We are excited to have Tanja Lutz from Seakeeper in Cape Town to educate us on this new product” said Derrick Levy, co-owner of Boating World and African representative for Seakeeper. “It’s a product that we believe will do well in Southern Africa as it can easily be retro fitted to any boat.”

Seakeeper have confirmed that more than 12 boat manufacturers have committed to integrate the Seakeeper 1 into their newest models and retro fits will be available from June 2020.

Original Article