A newly redeveloped boatshed has officially opened at Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour, marking the latest development at the facility on the Beaulieu River. The £2 million project delivers upgraded facilities for marine businesses, alongside waterfront offices and meeting rooms overlooking the river.
Located in the New Forest, the Beaulieu River has been under the custodianship of the Montagu family for over 400 years. Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour offers 211 fully serviced pontoon berths and over 300 moorings.
The launch was celebrated during the harbour’s annual summer party for berth and mooring holders. Lord Montagu hosted the event and invited British Olympic sailor Vita Heathcote to formally open the building. Also in attendance were Joanne Husband, one of the harbour’s earliest customers and Dewi Thomas, one of the newest mooring holders.
Speaking about the event, Lord Montagu said, “The redevelopment of the boatshed is an important next step following the major renewal and extension of Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour in 2021. It is good to see this 54-year-old building given a new lease of life and brought up to the standards required by today’s marine industry.
Guests were invited to tour the new facility, which includes five first-floor offices, two meeting rooms and a large workshop bay. Two additional bays are available for boatyard services. Guests were also given tours of the Fair Lady of Beaulieu, a restored 100-year-old vessel that once served as a patrol boat during the Second World War.
Letting terms in the facilities cover on-site parking, access to a communal kitchen, electricity and Wi-Fi. Office tenants can also make use of meeting rooms and a secure leased line share.
The opening also coincides with the launch of a new marina shop, chandlery and reception, which now provides food and drink as well as boating supplies.
Harbour Master Wendy Stowe commented: “Our summer party has become a key date in our calendar to bring together the Beaulieu River Community for great fun, live music and a friendly catch-up over a cold drink and bite to eat. We receive lovely comments about how much our berth and mooring holders enjoy it.”
The new boatshed and its associated facilities are now operational ahead of the 2025 summer sailing season.
