A Transcontinental Journey

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

As you may remember from our last blog, we were pleased to recently handover the beautiful Galeon 550 Fly to her proud new owner, Mr J and since then, the Galeon and Mr J have been very busy!

Setting off from Germany, the Galeon has made the 2500 nautical mile journey to her new home marina in Spain and we were delighted to follow them each step of the way!

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Setting sail from Kiel onboard a ship, the Galeon was enroute to Palma for the first leg of the journey.

All was well until bad weather struck in the English Channel and the ship, along with many others, was forced to see refuge in the Baie de la Seine, waiting for the storm to pass before continuing on.

Despite the delay, Mr J, was pleased to see the Galeon arrive safely in Majorca, unloaded from the ship and ready for the final stage of her journey to mainland Spain.

For this leg, Mr J took the helm and enjoyed the beautiful sights on the way! From the La Seu Cathedral to the Castell de Bellver, the voyage out of Palma featured some stunning landmarks.

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Following an enjoyable couple of days at sea, Mr J, confirmed their safe arrival at her new home berth and what a sunset she was welcomed with!

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To conclude the relocation, our team were pleased to visit Mr J and the Galeon in Spain to wish him all the very best and to provide the bubbles of course!

We wish Mr J and all his family and friends many memorable and enjoyable times on the Galeon and we very much look forward to helping again in the future!