6 days ago
- Business
- Edinburgh Reporter
Savills marketing business opportunity at Port Edgar
Port Edgar Marina has become available to a new owner on a long lease.
The marina is now thriving with boats, tourism and also shops created there in recent years. There is berthing available for more than 300 boats and a full service boatyard.
The sale includes the entire shareholding of Port Edgar (Holdings) Ltd, Port Edgar Marina Ltd, and Production Yachts (Port Edgar) Ltd, encompassing all business assets, operational interests, and the long leasehold of the property, which runs until 2100 under lease from the City of Edinburgh Council. Operations will continue as normal during and after the sale, with all staff and tenants remaining in place.
The business benefits from three revenue streams – marina operations, sub-leases to 25 third-party occupiers, and marine retail and services. Notable tenants include Scotts Restaurant (operated by Buzzworks), Edinburgh Watersports, and Forth Tours. The marina is also home to 'Beacon', a retail shop offering a selection of clothing and accessories by a variety of suppliers, including well-known brands.
Richard Prestwich, director in the leisure and trade related team at Savills, said: 'This sale represents a rare opportunity to acquire a fully operational and established marina business in a strategic coastal location. With a long leasehold secured, the asset offers both immediate operational income and the potential for future development – ideal for buyers seeking a foothold in a tightly held sector. With offers now invited for the long leasehold interest, we anticipate high levels of demand from prospective buyers eager to secure such a unique property.'
Current owners Cara and Russell Aitken have spent over a decade revitalising the marina. Since acquiring the long leasehold in 2014, the Aitkens have overseen a seven-figure investment programme, transforming Port Edgar into a premier destination. This included dredging, infrastructure upgrades, and the redevelopment of land-based assets.
Russell Aitken, managing director at Port Edgar Marina, said: 'Port Edgar has been a labour of love for us. We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved – from a naval heritage site to a vibrant, modern marina that serves over 300 vessels and a diverse community of marine and hospitality businesses. We believe it's the right time for new ownership to take it forward.'
With a maritime heritage spanning more than a century, Port Edgar's history adds further depth to its appeal. First commissioned in 1916 during World War I as HMS Columbine, the site served as a Royal Navy training base and later played a key role during World War II in minesweeping and anti-submarine operations across the North Sea. The marina remained under Royal Navy control until 1978, when it was formally closed as a military facility and transitioned into civilian use – laying the foundations for the thriving leisure destination it is today.
Port Edgar
Port Edgar
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