LUXURY yacht builder Sunseeker is on the crest of a wave marking 10 super years on Portland.

The Osprey Quay manufacturing base has seen numerous developments and expansions over the last decade. Many of the staff who joined the company on its first day are still there and form the 'backbone' of the workforce today, the firm says.

The site is responsible for manufacturing the successful San Remo craft, as well as the hull and superstructure for the striking 116 Yacht.

Alongside the Poole facilities, Osprey Quay also manufactures composite components for Sunseeker’s range.

Demand for Sunseeker’s luxurious yachts is increasing, with the forward order book up 41 per cent by volume year-on-year.

The firm launched a record five new models across the range in 2016 from the Manhattan 52 and Predator 68 to the larger 95, 116 and 131 Yachts, as well as launching the new Manhattan 66 and 68 Sport Yacht in early 2017 and a further two new launches later this year.

To support Sunseeker’s continued investment in new products, it is also investing across its sites, facilities and people to support the demand.

Building on its 2,000-strong workforce, Sunseeker is recruiting across Dorset in a number of disciplines including GRP Laminators and Carpenters, as well as other manufacturing and construction related skills. 

The Osprey Quay site also welcomes many of the company’s apprentices, from its thriving Apprenticeship Scheme, with 23 first and second year apprentices currently working alongside the workforce and a further nine recruited as part of the 2017 intake. This year’s intake will maintain the total number of apprentices employed at Sunseeker at over 100, which is more than 5% of the total boat building workforce, demonstrating the continued investment Sunseeker is making in creating its skilled workforce of the future.

Phil Popham, CEO at Sunseeker said: “Osprey Quay has developed and expanded over the years and plays a crucial role in the manufacturing of key components for our yacht range. Our 10th anniversary not only celebrates our time in Portland, but also our involvement with the local community and our relationship with local businesses. We have invested in our people over the last ten years and will continue to grow the site and invest in developing boat building skills in the area.”