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

Applications for the Sunseeker Apprenticeship Scheme opened on Monday (5 March). The luxury boat brand is looking to recruit 40 new apprentices
 
Sunseeker International is looking to recruit 40 new apprentice boat builders to join the team at its shipyards in Poole and Portland.  
 
Successful applicants will have the chance to get their foot in the UK marine industry’s door, learning skills in a range of boat construction sectors, through Sunseeker’s award-winning apprenticeship scheme.
 
Multiple learning pathways are on offer including: carpentry, composites, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and furniture joinery. The scheme is four years long and provides paid attendance at the Bournemouth and Poole College’s Marine Technology Centre and on-the-job training at Sunseeker’s Poole and Portland shipyards.
 
Earlier this year, two Sunseeker apprentices achieved royal recognition at the annual Worshipful Company of Shipwrights, Queens Silver Medal competition. Louis Castle, an Apprentice Marine Electrician, bagged top prize, whilst Jacob Clarke, an Apprentice Marine Engineer, won the runner-up prize. Both Louis and Jacob have now progressed to the Test and Commissioning Team and International Warranty Team respectively.
 
Alex Bowman, Head of Talent at Sunseeker International, commented: “Apprenticeships are a credible route to a very rewarding career. These new team members will learn the necessary craft skills from experienced Boat Builders to produce the level of quality and attention to detail that Sunseeker is known for. It really is a brilliant opportunity. Apprenticeships work – not only for the Apprentice, for us and the local community and the wider UK Marine industry.”
 
Applications for the Sunseeker Apprenticeship Scheme open on Monday the 5th March 2018 and close on Monday 2nd April 2018. Applications should be made online by visiting the Sunseeker Website.
 

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