East Cowes Marina to reopen following relaxation of leisure restrictions

Dean & Reddyhoff and Quay Marinas, which own East Cowes Marina on the Isle of Wight, will begin to reopen its marinas in England this week under new group brand name boatfolk, following the relaxation of travel and leisure restrictions.

Michael Prideaux, Managing Director at boatfolk, said: “Since 4th May, we have been following a phased reopening of our boatyards, with controlled access to contractors to maintain boats in preparation for welcoming customers back to the marina. Following the latest advice from the government, we will begin the reopening of our marinas from Wednesday 13th May.

“We are putting in place all necessary measures to keep our teams and customers safe, which is of course our primary focus, however we are also committed to getting our berth holders back on their boats and out on the water again.

“Boating is a great outdoor activity that can be safely carried out whilst maintaining social distancing and the boatfolk marina teams cannot wait to welcome back our incredibly loyal customers across England this week. We are also looking forward to opening our marinas in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland when it is safe to do so.”

As well as the news of its reopening plan, the company has now moved to a new name and brand, boatfolk, creating a fresh new vision of inclusive waterside destinations focused on people, places and experiences.

boatfolk offers great experiences around the UK coastline. Post COVID-19, with international travel being reduced, people will be looking for new leisure activities, and new ways to access the water to have fun afloat with friends and family. We hope to see the renaissance of the Great British seaside holiday, and a boatfolk marina is a great place to try something new and dip your toes in the water. The new name celebrates our people – both staff and customers – who share a passion for being in, on, or by the water.

The Dean & Reddyhoff and Quay Marinas merger in May 2019 created the only true national marina group in the UK. The brand launch is an important step in the company’s journey which will see its 4,000 berths, 150 staff and 220 acres of land and sea become unified with the boatfolk name. There are 11 amazing coastal destinations to enjoy, around the whole of the UK, from the Solent to the Clyde.