Dear All,
50 years is a major milestone for Oyster and this anniversary year has been an opportunity to look back on our achievements. It’s been quite a journey since Richard’s passion for Oyster led him to take the helm in 2018. With the support of Oyster owners, he continues to be entirely committed to taking the business to the next level.
The last five years has seen sustained investment and excellent growth, with turnover up from £30m to c.£70m. To futureproof the business, we have set up the Oyster Academy to sustain Great British boat-building trades and techniques; upgraded and optimised our production facilities and techniques; invested in new features on our yachts; and we continue to develop the skills required to maintain the very highest standards of boat building. External factors have meant tougher times for everyone but, despite this, we have continued to make substantial progress.
Since 2018, we have introduced a new generation of Oyster yachts – four new models that reimagine Oyster’s iconic styling, with state-of-the-art technology and luxurious interiors. The Oyster 565, 595 and 495 are already amongst Oyster’s most popular models and last week saw the splash of the latest addition, the 885SII featuring new deck saloon styling (you can see her here). I’m also delighted to report that the first 885GT has exceeded expectations in terms of performance, look out for more on this impressive model debut later in the year.
We took reassurance from owners’ and guests’ feedback at the summer shows telling us Oyster’s meticulous attention to detail and build quality far exceeded their expectations. ‘The Oyster Difference’ article in the latest issue of Oyster Life captures perfectly what it really means to own an Oyster. Read the article here.
We aim to bring Oyster back into sustainable profit in 2024, allowing us to invest in a number of exciting new product developments to inspire the world’s sailors. In parallel, I will continue to put owners’ experiences and those of their friends and families at the heart of what we do.
After a glorious summer in the Med and US, the ARC, the Caribbean charter season and the start of the Oyster World Rally 2024-25 are just a few events in our sights.
Final preparations are in progress for the Oyster World Rally 2024-25, which starts in Antigua, 14 January 2024. Our technical team will be in Las Palmas in November providing complimentary health checks for those Oysters crossing the Atlantic to join the 2024-25 Rally and for those taking part in the ARC and ARC+. Whilst we already have a record number of entries signed up for the Oyster World Rally 2026-27, if you are considering taking the voyage of a lifetime, there are still a few places available. Find out more.
We look forward to welcoming you to boot Düsseldorf, 20-28 January. We will be there with the award-winning Oyster 565. If you can’t wait until the Show to experience an Oyster first-hand, speak to our sales team to arrange a personal tour.
For our owners, past and present, there is the 50th anniversary celebration in London, 25 November, at the Royal Thames Yacht Club, which rounds up celebrations that took place in Antigua and Palma earlier this year. We’d love to see you there.
The latest issue of Oyster Life magazine offers a window into the world of Oyster. It’s packed with exclusive stories, a special look back at our last 50 years, owner insights and everything Oyster. You will find the digital version here. Or get aboard and experience sailing an Oyster for yourself this winter with an Oyster Caribbean charter.
And if you are thinking of joining the Oyster family, Oyster Brokerage can help. The go-to experts for pre-loved Oysters, current listings feature the award-winning Oyster 495 (jump the wait list), along with many other stunning models of all sizes.
Finally, it would be remiss of me if I didn’t highlight the special efforts of our dedicated Oyster Services: Crew, After Sales, Technical Support, Yacht Servicing, Guardianage and Refit. There for the benefit of our owners, our team ensures you get the very best out of owning an Oyster. Get in touch.
With so much to look forward to, I’m incredibly excited to continue the Oyster journey with you. As always, your feedback is much valued, so if you have questions, comments or ideas you’d like to share, drop me an email: [email protected].
Fair winds.
Ashley Highfield
CEO Oyster Yachts
