Buckler’s Hard promotes first apprentice to supervisor role

Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour has promoted its first-ever apprentice, Oli Rickard, to boatyard supervisor following his rapid completion of the training programme. The promotion comes alongside the appointment of experienced marine operator Gary Nicol as marine operative.

Rickard completed his apprenticeship programme in under two years, securing a top-scoring merit in his final assessment. He succeeds former supervisor Chris Wilson, who is departing the business to pursue new ventures after more than three years with the marina.

Harbourmaster Wendy Stowe says: “We are very proud of Oli and his achievements and also look forward to welcoming Gary to the Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour team. Our berth and mooring holders will be able to benefit from his extensive boatyard and marina knowledge.”

Stowe remains one of a minority of female harbourmasters in the UK. She recently featured in a Marine Industry News report exploring strategies to address gender disparity across the marina sector.

Nicol brings over 15 years’ experience in the maritime industry, having previously worked as a boatyard operator, head bosun and river patrol officer. At Beaulieu River, he will be working alongside the boatyard team and dockmasters in the marina.

Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour upgrades

The marina boasts 200 fully serviced walk-ashore pontoon berths, 300 river moorings and welcomes more than 10,000 visitors each year.

The staffing updates follow the recent completion of a £2m boatshed redevelopment project at the site. The investment has delivered modern waterfront offices, commercial workshops, and an expanded marina retail outlet.

Details about the new office and meeting room rentals can be found online.