Major marina operator MDL Marinas has seen a significant increase in the number of superyachts choosing its Ocean Village Marina in Southampton as their destination of choice.
The company, which owns and operates 18 marinas across the UK an done in Spain, says this is thanks in part to VAT advantages post-Brexit as well as the marina’s recent investment in enhancing its facilities for larger vessels.
Since the UK’s departure from the European Union, non-UK flagged superyachts stopping off at British marinas have benefited from significant VAT savings, making the UK an increasingly attractive stopover destination for owners and captains.
Setting the standard for luxury marinas, MDL says its Ocean Village Marina has seen a rise in superyacht visits as these financial incentives, coupled with the marina’s premium services, make it an ideal destination for yachts transiting through Europe.
Ocean Village Marina has recently upgraded its superyacht pontoons with new decking and smart meters supplying three-phase electricity, and is now able to accommodate yachts up to 80 metres in length.
It offers high-end facilities, including a five-star luxury spa hotel with an award-winning restaurant and state-of-the-art gym. Surrounded by numerous bars and restaurants in the heart of Southampton, and with excellent cruising grounds nearby, Ocean Village “more than meets the needs of visiting superyachts and their crews, providing a comfortable and convenient stay”, MDL says.
In addition, fellow MDL marinas Shamrock Quay and Saxon Wharf, also situated in Southampton, boast superyacht capabilities. Saxon Wharf offers expert yard, repair and refit services, and is equipped with a 200-ton boat hoist alongside storage facilities for yachts up to 70 metres.
MDL’s other UK marinas, from Plymouth to Ipswich, are equally equipped to welcome large vessels “ensuring MDL is the premier marina network for superyachts cruising Northern Europe”.
VAT Exemptions
Superyachts making the UK their first port of call after leaving EU boatyards now qualify for VAT exemptions on all yard work. This is particularly beneficial for superyachts en route to popular charter destinations in Scandinavia, or to leading shipyards in Germany and the Netherlands.
The strategic location of Ocean Village Marina, alongside MDL’s other marinas, makes them ideal stopovers for yachts in need of high-quality maintenance, provisioning or a convenient break for owners and crew, the company says.
“Since Brexit, the VAT advantages for non-UK flagged superyachts stopping in the UK have made our marinas even more attractive for captains and yacht owners," says Tim Mayer, sales and marketing director at MDL Marinas.
"This change has helped superyacht crews and owners recognise just how fantastic the UK is. This year, we have doubled the number of superyachts visiting Ocean Village. The great thing about the UK is that we are one of the only places to offer year-round picturesque coastlines and historic sites, with the added benefit of being close to London. This makes the south coast particularly convenient for business and leisure travellers arriving by private jet or helicopter.
“Only a few UK marinas can accommodate large vessels, and we’re proud to have recently welcomed notable superyachts like Shamrock V, Special One, Alicia, Sport, Phoenix and Arctic Pride II.
“Thanks to our exceptional service and Southampton’s convenient location, we’ve seen an unprecedented number of superyacht visits, whether for fuel stops, provisions, EU VAT clearance or owner and guest trips. Superyacht owners, supported by their crews, are continually seeking new destinations, and Ocean Village is predicted to be at the top of the list for many.”
MDL Marinas says it continues to invest and upgrade its offerings, ensuring that it remains a top destination for superyachts across its entire network. For more information about MDL Marinas and its superyacht facilities, see www.mdlmarinas.co.uk/superyachts.
