Oyster Yachts is to end production at its Southampton Saxon Wharf facilities by the end of 2026.
The British based luxury blue-water yacht builder will instead concentrate its manufacturing activities at its Norfolk facilities.
The company says there will be a ‘phased end to production activity’ at the leased facility and owners and boats currently in build will not be affected.
A formal redundancy consultation will be carried out with affected employees, particularly those in production, support and overhead roles.
The yacht builder has not confirmed the number of affected employees. The company has a global headcount of approximately 600 people. Previous estimates have suggested at least 160 workers are based at the Saxon Wharf site.
Concentrating investment at a single hub
The shipyard instead says the decision is intended to simplify its footprint and concentrate its investment at a single hub near Wroxham, Norfolk.
“This reshaping activity supports a more focused and resilient operating model, concentrating investment around Wroxham, Norfolk as Oyster’s centre of excellence for UK manufacturing,” said a spokesperson from the yard.
“Future yachts will continue to be built in our Wroxham shipyard.”
The yard is also continuing to invest in new product development including the Oyster 805 24-metre superyacht inspired vessel.
The company has also recently unveiled a new yacht within the 50-foot range that is currently in development.
The concept is said to reimagine onboard space, with a more open, light-filled interior.
Oyster says the design reflects its bluewater DNA, balancing Mediterranean versatility with genuine offshore capability.
Investing in events
Oyster is also continuing to invest in its fully supported Oyster World Rally with the latest edition setting sail from Antigua in January 2026.
Oyster Yachts was founded in 1973 and over the years has grown to become a key British luxury boatbuilder.
The company entered administration in 2018 and was subsequently acquired by British entrepreneur Richard Hadida.
Hadida has since concentrated on turning the company around, investing in both new models and manufacturing capability.
Stefan Zimmermann Zschocke was appointed as CEO in 2025 who is focusing on efficiencies – both operational and manufacturing – and customer experience, with the aim of modernising the sailing brand and attracting a new generation of owners.
