Camper & Nicholsons’ boatyard in Gosport has been bought by a property developer for an undisclosed sum. The new owners acquired the site from Nautor’s Base UK, part of Nautor Group. The last sailing boat project at the yard was the restoration of Gipsy Moth IV, following a campaign by Yachting Monthly to save the vessel.

Beaulieu Properties is proposing that the three large building sheds continue to be used for the marine related industry and is in discussions with various companies regarding the ongoing management of the premises.

This prime site, situated close to the entrance of Portsmouth Harbour, has a long and historic tradition of boatbuilding. With an undercover boat manufacturing area of some 4,250 m2 (45,700 sp. ft.) which can take vessels up to 40m (130 ft.) in length. There is also a 180-ton boat lift, a large area of concrete hard standing for yachts and small marina for mooring boats awaiting repair or maintenance. All plant and machinery on the site have also been included in the purchase price.

The new owners anticipate that there will be considerable interest from various companies in the marine industry that require under cover storage, associated offices and workshops and deep water access.

Nautor Group will relocate the production of the Endeavour 42 powerboat and any other “one off” construction to Finland at Nautor’s yard. Camper & Nicholsons’ offices however, together with a team of project managers and engineers, will remain in Gosport.