Tingdene Marinas expands into Scotland as Holy Loch Marina joins the family.
When you arrive at Holy Loch Marina, nestled in the sheltered waters of the Holy Loch in Sandbank on Scotland’s Cowal Peninsula, you are struck by two things: the breathtaking scenery of the Firth of Clyde and the unmistakable sense of community that runs through the pontoons. It is this unique blend that has drawn boaters here for more than 25 years, and it is also what made the marina such a natural fit for Tingdene Marinas, who have now added it to their expanding portfolio.
The acquisition, announced in August, marks Tingdene’s first step into Scottish waters. It is also their second marina purchase in just two months, bringing the network to a round dozen locations across the UK. For the group, already a well-established name on England’s inland boating scene, the move north to coastal waters opens a new chapter.
A LANDMARK STEP
“This is a significant milestone for us,” says Ethan Zone, Strategy Director at Tingdene Group. “Holy Loch is not only our first Scottish marina, but also our base in one of the UK’s most iconic boating regions. It provides us with an opportunity to learn, grow and serve a whole new community of boaters.”
For Managing Director Ian Collier, the appeal was clear from the outset.
“Holy Loch Marina is a natural and welcome addition to our network,” he explains. “Its stunning location, its reputation and the strong berth holder community make it an ideal fit. We are excited to continue the great work that is already happening here.”
That “great work” has been the legacy of the Downs family. The marina was developed in the late 1990s by the late Matthew Downs, whose children Alison Allan and Stuart Downs have since taken the helm. Both will remain actively involved under Tingdene’s ownership, ensuring continuity for berth holders and staff alike.
“This place is more than a marina,” Alison shares. “It is a community that reflects our father’s vision. We are proud to hand it over to Tingdene and excited to see what the future brings.”
WHAT HOLY LOCH MARINA OFFERS
For those unfamiliar with the area, Holy Loch Marina has long been regarded as one of the best boating bases on Scotland’s west coast. The marina boasts over 200 fully serviced berths, with space for visitors and deep-water access that makes it suitable for a wide range of craft.
On shore, there is a well-equipped boatyard with a hoist and slipway, on-site fuel and a suite of supporting services, from marine engineering and chandlery to cafés and hospitality outlets. This combination means berth holders and visiting sailors can find everything they need in one place, whether it is for a quick turnaround or long-term storage and maintenance.
But what really sets Holy Loch apart is its position. Just a short ferry ride from Gourock, the marina opens directly onto the Firth of Clyde, one of the UK’s most celebrated cruising grounds. From here, boaters can explore the sheltered waters of the Clyde estuary, the dramatic lochs and islands of the Inner Hebrides, and the open seaways beyond. For many, it is a gateway to some of the finest sailing in Europe.
A WARM WELCOME
Community is a word that comes up time and again when people talk about Holy Loch. For Steve Arber, Operations Director at Tingdene Marinas, it is what makes the acquisition so special.
“At the heart of every successful marina is a sense of community,” he says. “Holy Loch is a shining example of that. We are proud to join this boating family and respectful of the legacy built here over the past 25 years. Our priority will be listening to berth holders, supporting the existing team and making sure the marina remains a welcoming hub for locals and visitors alike.”
That continuity is important, particularly for berth holders who have made Holy Loch their home port for many years. With the Downs family staying on in key roles, and Tingdene taking a hands-on approach to listening and learning, the transition looks set to be smooth.
PRIVILEGE COMES NORTH
One of the biggest immediate benefits of Tingdene’s ownership is the extension of the Tingdene Privilege scheme to berth holders at Holy Loch. Already popular across the group’s other marinas, the Privilege programme offers a host of exclusive advantages designed to add value to customers’ berthing packages.
Among the highlights is free visitor berthing across the entire Tingdene network, meaning Holy Loch customers can cruise south with the assurance of a warm welcome at marinas from Windsor on the Thames to Stourport on the Severn. Discounts with partner marine suppliers and service providers are also part of the package, alongside special offers at selected hospitality outlets and marine events.
For Scottish boaters, it is an enticing prospect: the chance to connect with a wider family of marinas, while still enjoying the unique character and independence of their home waters. And for English berth holders already familiar with the Privilege scheme, Holy Loch now becomes a new northern destination to explore under the same umbrella.
LOOKING AHEAD
Tingdene has made it clear that the acquisition is not just about adding a pin to the map – it is about long-term investment. The group is already exploring opportunities to enhance and expand the facilities at Holy Loch, always with an eye on preserving the site’s character.
As Ian Collier notes: “We do not just operate marinas, we grow with communities. Holy Loch has strong foundations and our role is to build on them, ensuring the marina continues to thrive for the next 25 years.”
That might mean further development of shoreside services, improved boatyard facilities or expanded berth capacity. Whatever comes next, it will be done in consultation with berth holders and staff – a collaborative approach that has become something of a Tingdene hallmark.
A STRATEGIC NATIONAL NETWORK
The acquisition also strengthens Tingdene’s position in the wider UK marina market. With 12 marinas now under its umbrella, the group spans inland and coastal waters, offering a diverse choice of destinations. From the peaceful waterways of East Anglia to the tidal challenges of the South Coast and now the rugged beauty of Scotland’s west coast, Tingdene berth holders enjoy a network that is both broad and complementary.
For the group, the strategic advantage is clear: a bigger footprint, a wider audience and the ability to deliver consistent quality across regions. For boaters, it is equally compelling: more choice, more flexibility and the assurance of a familiar standard wherever they tie up.
SCOTLAND, HERE WE COME
The mood at Holy Loch is one of cautious optimism tinged with excitement. For berth holders, there is reassurance in seeing familiar faces like Alison and Stuart remain at the helm day-to-day. For the team, there is the prospect of new investment and fresh opportunities. And for Tingdene, there is the thrill of venturing into new waters with a marina that already feels like part of the family.
As the first burgee carrying the Tingdene name flutters in the Clyde breeze, one thing is certain: Holy Loch Marina is embarking on a new chapter. The Downs family’s legacy, the berth holders’ loyalty and the beauty of the location remain the constants. What Tingdene brings is the promise of growth, connectivity and Privilege – qualities that bode well for the future of this special place.
Holy Loch Marina
Sandbank
Dunoon PA23 8QB
01369 701800
holylochmarina@tingdene.net
www.tingdeneboating.com
