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

If built, this 112m Sinot Yacht Architects concept would be powered by completely by liquid hydrogen
 
Alternative fuels have made small waves in the yachting industry, but this ambitious superyacht concept could turn these into a tsunami. Aqua, an innovative concept by Dutch design studio Sinot Yacht Architects, was revealed at the 2019 Monaco Yacht Show.
 
In order to bring turn this concept into reality, it will take more than two years, (not to mention upwards of £500m). Hydrogen power has long been feted as the answer to our reliance on fossil fuels, but large-scale experiments on its viability at sea are few and far between.
 
One such example is the cutting-edge catamaran/floating laboratory Energy Observer, which was launched in June 2017 and has visited more than 25 countries, demonstrating how it converts water into electricity. The process is highly involved and is explained in detail by MBY editor Hugo Andreae in the video below:
 
 
It is not yet clear whether Aqua would use a similar system, but it would have to be dramatically scaled up, since the vessel is more than three-times as long, and likely more than ten-times heavier. Nonetheless, Sinot claims that Aqua could reach a top speed of 17 knots and cruise for up to 3,750nm before needing to refuel.
 
If it were to come to fruition, this project would provide a shot in the arm for the yachting industry and those pushing the envelope of alternative fuels in particular. Prominent examples include Greenline Yachts, whose entire range is available in hybrid as well as diesel-powered versions. Meanwhile, British yard Sunseeker International plans to launch its first hybrid model later this year as part of a partnership with marine engine manufacturer MTU.
 
Widespread media reports had claimed that Aqua has been sold to Microsoft founder Bill Gates, but this has since been denied by the designers. The build yard for Aqua is yet to be determined, but Sinot has a long-standing relationship with Feadship, one of the Netherlands’ biggest superyacht builders, which launched the 83m hybrid superyacht Savannah in 2015.
 

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