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

Picking up where her bigger sisters left off, the Wider 130 is bringing fuel-efficient diesel-electric propulsion to the smaller megayacht market. Simultaneously, Wider Yachts is making this new model capable of accommodating bigger owners’ parties.
 
Under construction on spec, the Wider 130 has more than 2,150 square feet (200 square meters) of on-deck space. This ranges from the aft bridge deck to the foredeck hot tub and down to the beach club. Potential buyers will also appreciate the 27’6” (8.4-meter) beam. As much as creature comforts are important to Wider, its big focus is damping sound and vibration while boosting operational efficiency. That’s why the Wider 130 features a similar propulsion package to Bartali, the Wider 150, as well as the Wider 165 currently under construction.
 
The megayacht should be able to run systems at anchor on batteries alone, essentially silently, for six hours. The electric motors, with pod drives, are quieter than traditional diesels, too, plus vibrate less. Furthermore, Wider says the yacht should burn just 22 gph (84 lph) at 10 knots, additionally seeing 3,400 nautical miles at that speed. And, Wider’s proprietary power-management system should balance draws from the gensets and the stored power in the batteries.
 
The compact nature of the propulsion system means a smaller engine room, and more relaxation space. That’s a significant reason why the Wider 130 can accommodate a 12-person owner’s party. Since the megayacht is for sale, Wider’s in-house design team will work with you and even a designer of your choice to tailor the arrangement. Surely, though, you’ll keep the master full beam forward on the main deck. It additionally features a balcony.
 
That concept of indoor-outdoor enjoyment extends to the bridge deck. Here in the skylounge, Wider’s team suggests sliding-glass doors to remain open. That gives you 915 square feet (85 square meters) of space for cocktail parties, family gatherings, and more.
 
Floor-to-ceiling windows in the saloon and lowering bulwarks to each side of it make taking in the sights more pleasurable. As to where exactly you can visit, the Wider 130 should have a 3,400-nautical-mile range at 10 knots. Anticipated top speed: 14 knots. Shallow anchorages are also accessible, due to the 6’6” (2-meter) draft. Drop the anchor, ask the seven-person crew to deploy the PWCs from beneath the foredeck sunpads and other toys from the garage, and you’re all set.
 

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