UK inland marinas are increasingly significant assets, not only as crucial green and blue spaces but as gateways to more accessible boating that is attractive to a wider demographic. Their proximity to urban and suburban areas, combined with inherently simpler navigation, reduced exposure to tricky tides and weather, and shorter travelling distances for berth-holders, sets them apart from what often comprises the traditional coastal boating model.
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Beyond merely boat parking, inland marinas are increasingly pivotal in conserving natural aesthetics and waterside accessibility while preserving attractive community amenities for local walkers and cyclists. They also foster vibrant boating communities that span generations, from those new to boating to more seasoned cruisers looking for a gentler and slower experience.
The charm of inland waterways
Tingdene Group’s marina portfolio, though not acquired exclusively as inland sites by design, has naturally gravitated towards river, canal and broads locations. This strategic fit allows many of their marinas to offer a unique "best of both worlds" experience. For instance, Upton Marina near Worcester provides access to the sea via the River Severn and Bristol Channel, while also being adjacent to canal networks. This maximises choice and widens appeal for a diverse range of boaters, from those with sea-going cruisers to owners of traditional narrowboats.
The communities within these marinas reflect their distinct character. Narrowboats in particular are often adorned with potted plants and colourful designs, with boaters enjoying the over 4,000km of connected navigable waterways across the UK. It's a second home close to nature, embracing outdoor living at a slower, often unconventional pace.
A commitment to sustainable waterscapes
Tingdene Group's commitment to sustainability is woven into its operations and investment principles. The group is actively pursuing The Yacht Harbour Association’s Clean Marina accreditation across its portfolio, with Racecourse Marina on the Thames being a flagship example by achieving its 5 Gold Anchors and Clean Marina award – an industry mark of quality and environmental stewardship. Preparation is also underway to work towards Gold Anchor awards for each of the other sites.
This dedication extends to tangible environmental practices:
- Advanced waste management: Marinas are being equipped with filtering washdown systems and floating litter bins to prevent pollution. They also offer free pump-out facilities for holding tanks, ensuring responsible disposal of waste.
- Carbon-neutral fuelling: Initiatives like carbon-neutral fuelling at Thames & Kennet Marina demonstrate a proactive approach to reducing the environmental footprint of boating.
- Biodiversity enhancement: Recognising their role as guardians of natural spaces and supporters of local wildlife, Tingdene is forging new partnerships with the likes of the Suffolk Wildlife Trust for Broadlands and Waveney Marinas, based within the UK’s largest protected wetland. Marina teams meanwhile take the initiative to actively care for resident wildlife, including breeding swans.
- Embracing electric propulsion: With national decarbonisation plans pointing towards electric solutions for inland boating, Tingdene is investing in future-proofing its marinas. Recognising that inland cruising's lower speeds and shorter distances don’t fulfil criteria for fast charging, the company is ensuring sufficient capacity for electric boat charging that prioritises reliable connections at every berth. All current electricity supplier contracts are with renewable providers, further cementing the green credentials.
A legacy of growth and succession
Tingdene Group's journey into boating began with the acquisition of Thames & Kennet Marina in 2004, followed by a strategic series of both group and single acquisitions. The most recent addition to its current group of 12 marinas – Holy Loch Marina – was acquired in summer 2025. As Tingdene's first location in Scotland, the acquisition of Holy Loch demonstrates a focused approach to expanding its portfolio with sites that align with its business model and customer demographics. 2025 marks the 20th anniversary of Tingdene Marinas & Boat Sales, a milestone that also coincides with the 50th anniversary of Upton Marina, one of its earliest and most significant acquisitions.
Under the leadership of Managing Director Ian Collier and guided by experienced directors like Steve Arber CMM and Neil Mallandain, Tingdene Group maintains a strong family-owned ethos and a long-term investment philosophy. This dedication extends to thoughtful succession planning, a process that has been actively developed over the past three years. Tingdene Group’s Strategic Director Ethan Zone explains:
“For any business it is important continually to adapt and to safeguard against changing market conditions and industry norms. To stay ahead of the curve, and rather than sacrificing experience for youth, we set out a succession strategy to couple the two together, creating a new senior leadership team to provide an opportunity for development, innovation and challenge. Ultimately, and to our satisfaction, we appointed three younger and very capable members of our existing team to spearhead the future of our marina business: Adam Buck (Senior Business Support Manager), Kim Allen (Senior Sales Manager), and Richard Birch CMM (Senior Operations Manager). Our new leaders are supported by the vast experience of long-standing industry veterans, some with over 40 years in the sector, creating a powerful blend of fresh perspective and considerable expertise.”
Building confidence and community
A key aspect of Tingdene's strategy is to make boating accessible to everyone. Recognising that moorings and boats can be expensive, the company is exploring alternative models like boat clubs and shared-ownership syndicates. This proactive approach aims to lower the barrier to entry, assisting those new to boating as well as those who might previously have owned a boat but might be time-poor or prefer a lower commitment.
For those who might feel daunted by the prospect of navigating more complex waters, Tingdene's teams offer extensive support:
- Guided cruises: Tingdene organises guided cruises, tackling key hurdles such as the final locks between non-tidal and tidal stretches of river, heading to destinations such as the Thames Tideway or the Bristol Channel via the River Severn. An experienced berth-holder or staff member accompanies less confident boaters, providing briefings and chart guidance, helping them overcome concerns and gain confidence in "going tidal".
- Elementary training: Sessions covering practical skills like rope-work and water safety are held regularly, often combined with social events like barbecues to foster community building.
- Easy-to-use boats: New boat sales focus on models that involve fairly intuitive operating systems, with outboards and car-like steering and reversing, making them ideal for novice boaters who welcome a lower skills threshold.
- Staff expertise: All Tingdene staff are put through the Royal Yachting Association’s Power Boat Level 2 training, ensuring they can offer comprehensive advice and support. 16 members of staff have also completed Global Marine Institute certification, from Intermediate Marina Manager to Certified Marina Manager level.
This focus on skills development and community underscores a broader commitment to cultivate confidence and extend boaters' understanding of what's possible on the water, potentially extending their cruising range and enjoyment of their boat.
The future of inland marinas: growth and integrity
Tingdene Group's long-term plan involves continued portfolio expansion and enhancing the existing customer experience. Significant investments have been made in upgrading facilities like toilets, shower blocks and electrical infrastructure to very high standards, understanding that these seemingly small details will positively impact customer satisfaction.
While coastal marinas might offer access to open seas, inland marinas provide a distinct advantage: less worry about navigation challenges like wind and tide. This "turn up and go" convenience is highly valued by many, especially older boaters who still desire the waterside lifestyle but without the physical rigours of more demanding cruising. It also offers a viable "transitionary pathway" for those returning from sailing to a simpler form of boating.
Tingdene Group's ethos, rooted in its family-owned status, is guided by a consolidated, purpose-driven vision centred around operations and investment. This long-term perspective is reflected in a steadfast commitment to its workforce and the transfer of invaluable expertise. As Steve Arber says:
"The value of mentorship is something we really see coming to the fore these days. As someone who has worked for decades in a role or a company, you fully appreciate that you won't be there forever and there needs to be a facility to bring in a new generation that you can advise, help and support, and to whom you can pass on your experience."
This article was also published in issue 150 of Marina World magazine. Click here to read the online version.
