Port Edgar Marina has been brought to the market by international real estate advisor Savills. Acting on behalf of Port Edgar Ltd., Savills is seeking interest in a long leasehold of the full-service marina, situated on the Firth of Forth at South Queensferry, outside Edinburgh.
The offering includes the entire shareholding of three operating companies, Port Edgar (Holdings) Ltd, Port Edgar Marina Ltd, and Production Yachts (Port Edgar) Ltd, along with all operational assets and the long leasehold of the site, which runs until 2100 under a lease from the City of Edinburgh Council. Day-to-day operations will remain uninterrupted during and after the sale, with all current staff and tenants retained.
With berthing for over 300 vessels, Port Edgar Marina serves as a hub for leisure boating, marine retail and tourism. The marina boasts boatyard services and is home to established sailing schools and watersports providers. The property’s location and developed infrastructure make it a key facility in the Scottish marine sector.
Port Edgar Marina generates income from three principal streams, including marina operations, leases to 25 third-party tenants and a marine-focused retail and services. Notable occupiers include Scotts Restaurant, operated by Buzzworks, alongside Edinburgh Watersports and Forth Tours.
According to Richard Prestwich, director of the leisure and trade-related team at Savills, the sale presents an opportunity to acquire a fully operational and established marina business in a 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.”
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.”
Port Edgar’s current owners, Cara and Russell Aitken, have led a transformation of the site since acquiring the leasehold in 2014. Their seven-figure investment programme has included dredging, infrastructure upgrades and the redevelopment of land-based assets, turning the former facility into a waterfront destination.
The marina’s maritime heritage stretches back to 1916, when the facility was commissioned as HMS Columbine during World War I. The marina later played a role in North Sea operations during World War II before closing as a Royal Navy base in 1978 and transitioning into civilian use.
Interested parties are encouraged to contact Savills for further details and viewing arrangements.
