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

Sinot Yacht Architecture and Design's 112 metre hydrogen-electric yacht concept Aqua was designed for "a discerning, forward-looking owner".
 
Extensively developed over a period of five months, Aqua was created in collaboration with Lateral Naval Architects, which developed the yacht’s hydrogen technology and naval architecture.
 
Fusing ground breaking technology with cutting edge design, Aqua features a hydrogen-electric system. The hydrogen propulsion package is based on the use of liquified hydrogen, which is stored at -253C degrees in two 28 ton vacuum isolated tanks.
 
The hydrogen is converted into electrical energy by proton exchange membrane fuel cells, with the generated energy powering the propulsion, auxiliary systems and hotel services. Water is the only by product of the system, which also sees large batteries buffer the generated electricity. The result is a top speed of 17 knots, cruising speed of 10-12 knots and range of 3750 nautical miles.
 
Speaking about the concept, designer Sander Sinot said: "For development of Aqua we took inspiration from the lifestyle of a discerning, forward-looking owner, the fluid versatility of water and cutting-edge technology to combine this in a 112 metre superyacht with truly innovative features."
 
"Our challenge was to implement fully operational liquid hydrogen and fuel cells in a true superyacht that is not only groundbreaking in technology, but also in design and aesthetics."
 
The interior meanwhile has been designed around providing as much privacy and space as possible. Accommodation is for a total of 14 people and 31 crew. The full 15.4 metre beam owner’s "pavilion” occupies the front half of the upper deck.
 
Key features of the owner's pavilion include an open plan layout divided by wooden screens, floor to ceiling windows on the port and starboard sides, a large central skylight and crafted wooden structure. The apartment also include a large bathroom, dressing room and spa.
 
Other interior features include the Aqua room, which is located at the bow at the far end of the owner’s pavilion for far reaching ocean views and a "top-of-the-world” feeling.
 
Aqua also features an indoor health and wellness centre with a hydro massage room, yoga space and workout floor.
 
A circular staircase sits at the core of the yacht, linking all five decks. Described as "a true spectacle", the staircase bypasses the two hexagonal liquified hydrogen tanks, which sit behind a screen of strengthened glass.
 
The exterior meanwhile has been inspired by "ocean swells", and features a curved top deck, integrated bow observatory, glass band windows and a raised front profile.
 

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