Toy of the month: This electric jetski boasts electrifying 56-knot performance

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 electric revolution has arrived in the world of personal watercraft We take a first look at the Taiga Orca electric jetski...

Taiga Motors was conceived to create electric vehicles enabling ‘escape into the great outdoors without compromise’ and offers a range of snowmobiles and watercraft built in Canada. This is its personal watercraft (or jetski).

From a distance it looks no different to a normal petrol-engined jetski; it even performs like one, with a 60mph top end.

Under the hood, however, is a 134kW (180hp) electric motor offering up to two hours of endurance and an 80% recharge in just two hours.

Aside from the obvious emissions benefits, an electric jetski offers quieter running at low speeds, cuts the need to obtain and store petrol on board and doesn’t need servicing.

Supplier Superyacht Tenders and Toys will even customise your electric jetski to match the mothership.

Specification

LOA: 9ft 6in (2.9m)

Beam: 3ft 11in (1.2m)

Displacement: 263kg (580lbs)

Engine: 134kW (180hp) direct drive

Range: 130nm

Charging: 80% in 20 minutes DC fast charge

Top speed: 56 knots

Starting price: $28,000

Original Article