Change of helm at Euroyachts

Long-established Scottish boat dealers and brokers, Euroyachts, has been sold to Yachts.co as part of the Swansea-based Jeanneau dealer’s UK expansion plan.

Originally based on the Clyde in Glasgow City Centre, Euroyachts was established in 1965 by Ronnie Scott who pioneered the import of pleasure craft to the UK by introducing the East-German Folkboat, making owning a yacht and sailing more accessible to many.

The firm went on to become dealers of many popular brands including Hurley, Seamaster, Fairline, Dateline, Westerly, Dufour, Hardy, Beneteau and Najad. However, it’s is best known for its 40-year plus relationship with Jeanneau, which makes it one of longest serving Jeanneau dealers in the world. Euroyachts distributed Jeanneau products on an exclusive basis in the UK from 1978 to 1993.

Since 1994, the firm has been run by Ronnie Scott’s son, Angus, who has worked in the business since 1981. It was he who oversaw the move of the main premises from Glasgow City Centre to the first, and still only, custom-built boat showroom of its scale in the UK, at Largs Yacht Haven. The firm also operates from Troon Yacht Haven.

Core business activities include the distribution of Jeanneau sailing and motorboats in Scotland, BRIG RIB sales, brokerage operations and engineering services.

The business changed hands for an undisclosed six figure sum.

“The sale of the company to Yachts.co will give us access to fresh thinking and improved digital skills, which will help Euroyachts to maintain and grow its market leading position in Scotland,” says Euroyachts MD, Angus Scott.

“I am delighted that all of the staff, with the exception of myself, are staying onboard and also that a new hiring has been made at Largs. Now is the perfect time for me to bow out of the business and concentrate on sailing rather than selling. I would like to thank all of our staff, trading partners and especially our customers for their support over the decades.”

“We have been seeking to expand our UK operation for some time and Euroyachts is a great fit for us,” says Jamie Tibbott, MD Yachts.co. “We are conscious of Euroyachts’ long history and huge customer base which we will work hard to serve. It is not our intention to make any radical changes, rather we plan to upgrade and modernise systems and streamline processes. We are looking forward to working with the Euroyachts crew and wish Angus all the best for the future.”