When people visit our yard, they’re often surprised by what they discover.
We’re not just a marina, nor are we simply a boatyard. Nestled along the banks of the River Hamble in the village of Old Bursledon, we are a family-run, full-service yard with a special focus on bespoke boat building and restoration.
We have always had a great passion for sailing. This, combined with a team of exceptional shipwrights, engineers and yard operatives, has created a unique boatyard where we are able to truly understand the needs of sailors and their yachts.
MEET THE TEAM
BETH
Beth’s career started in London working for digital consultancies and went on to become Personal Manager to chef and restaurateur Jamie Oliver at the height of his fame. It took a marriage to a professional sailor to lure her back to her roots, where she now enjoys running the yard and helping to shape its future.
MATT
Sailing and boat building are a way of life for Matt, who, along with his sister Beth, is now the third generation to work in the family business. Thanks to an exciting career constructing race boats, he brings a vast knowledge of build techniques to the business. When not building boats, Matt is a keen sailor and has competed in numerous offshore races.
JESS
Jess is a cornerstone of the Elephant management team. Her previous experience, including senior-level management roles at LVMH, have provided a fresh perspective on the running of the business. She loves the unique atmosphere of the Elephant, and when not at the yard, she’ll be out sailing on Arctic Skua.
LUKE
With a diploma in marine design and a degree in yacht production, Luke came straight here from university. As foreman he now oversees all jobs and is a master of multitasking. Do not be fooled by his cool, calm exterior … underneath is a problem-solving genius whose brilliant creativity can solve any boatbuilding challenge that comes his way.
ADY
Ady heads up the paint team and having run his own successful yacht painting business for 30 years, brings a wealth of experience to the role. Setting the same high standard whether faced with a 15ft dinghy or 50ft yacht he is frequently sought out by owners who value his skilful brushwork.
LIAM
Liam is our Yard Supervisor, responsible for boat movements, rigging and general work in the yard. Having completed his boat building apprenticeship here, a few globetrotting years followed working in the marine industry. Luckily for us he’s part of the ‘Boomerang Club’ and is now back at the yard - a multi-skilled star and a true asset to the team.
JOIN THE TEAM
We are ALWAYS on the lookout for great people. If you are interested in joining our team, please do get in touch.
