Craobh Marina, located on the West Coast of Scotland, has been acquired by Brian and Shelia Norton and their three adult children.
The family received support from HSBC UK funding and plan to expand the marina’s capacity to accommodate a growing number of large vessels visiting the area.
They also plan to make improvements to the pontoons, boatyard areas, and amenities, as well as reopening the long-vacant pub and adding new features such as a floating sauna.
The work will prioritise sustainable upgrades, with solar panels installed on the pub and boatshed to improve EPC ratings.
The family sold their previous business in 2009 and spent two years sailing around the world.
They all now plan to play an active role in the running of the marina, from event management and marketing, to operations and sustainable development.
We are so excited to put our experience as marina users into action.
Annie Norton
“For our family, sailing has always been a way of life, and having completed a circumnavigation between 2009-2011 we came to settle in the West Coast of Scotland, after experiencing some of the best sailing in the world here,” explained Annie Norton.
“When the opportunity to take over Craobh arose, we knew there could never be a more perfect business venture for us to undertake than this – allowing us to combine our passion for sailing with our entrepreneurial spirit.
“We are so excited to put our experience as marina users into action and to join the community in Argyll & Bute.
“For us, this marina is more than a business – it is about building community, and providing a gateway to adventure for those who share our love of the sea.”
Commitment to the community
Allan McGraw, relationship manager at HSBC UK, added: “It’s not every day we support a venture where the whole family is at the helm, so it’s been a real privilege to work with the Nortons on the acquisition of Craobh Marina.
“Their passion for sailing and commitment to the community are evident in their plans, and this funding will help bring their ambitious vision to life.”
The marina includes 225 berths of varying size up to 22 meters, designed to accommodate yachts up to 60-70ft in length.
The marina has 360-degree weather protection and direct access to the sea.
