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

Avon’s eJet 14-foot-8-inch RIB, introduced last year at the Cannes Yachting Festival, combines an 80 hp Torqeedo Deep Blue electric motor with a new Avon RIB hull form.
 
The boat pushes across the water via jet drives rather than props. Deep Blue is a high-voltage, brushless motor with NMEA 2000 and J1939 CAN interfaces that give the helmsman battery data, available range and other critical information on a helm display.
 
The vessel’s 32 kWh BMW battery, first used in BMW’s i3 series cars, should provide 90 minutes of run time at the eJet’s estimated 26-knot top-end with two people on board. Avon also is estimating seven hours of run time at a more leisurely 5 to 6 knots. The builder says the RIB’s standard cruise speed will be around 20 knots.
 
Compared to RIBs with gas or diesel engines, the eJet’s benefits include no fuel or oil to service or change. As with an electric car, owners will appreciate the vessel’s instant torque and near-silent running. The Avon team says it optimized usable space throughout the interior, and added a swim platform to augment that initiative.
 
With its projected top hop and easy-to-stow size, the Avon eJet could claim many tender garages when it hits the production line next year.
 
 

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