New waters ahead for Jersey's oldest boatyard

Sunday 24 March 2024

Jersey's oldest shipyard and boat brokerage has been sold in a move intended to create the Channel Islands' "premier full-service marine centre".

South Pier Marine – established in 1926 – has been bought by Reconvene Marine, which has also acquired PC Boat Sales.

After nearly 16 years at the helm, South Pier director Bob Wood is retiring, while his son Nick will be moving to a part-time role with a focus on boat sales after he has returned from his upcoming paternity leave.

Pictured: Nick and Bob Wood outside the shipyard in 2008.

Among those leading the new enterprise will be Paul Caunce, who started his career at the shipyard in 1995 and later went on to found PC Boat Sales.

In a statement, the company said it wants to create "the Channel Islands' premier full-service marine centre".

The statement continued: "Paul intends to place the customer experience at the heart of the business as we approach the 100 year anniversary of the South Pier shipyard.

"The team is committed to continuing this legacy and upholding the island's proud marine heritage.

"The team of 22 people look forward to welcoming customers old and new at the Barclay's Jersey Boat Show on 4-6th May where we'll be displaying over 15 new boats, and the team will be on hand to answer any questions.”