Tingdene Group Expands into Scotland with Acquisition of Holy Loch Marina

Tingdene Group Expands into Scotland with Acquisition of Holy Loch Marina

Tingdene Group is proud to announce the acquisition of Holy Loch Marina, situated in Sandbank, near Dunoon on Scotland’s Cowal Peninsula. This marks the company’s second marina acquisition of 2025, and its first expansion into Scottish waters, significantly broadening the group’s national footprint.

The marina is a key boating destination on the Firth of Clyde, offering more than 200 fully serviced berths, visitor berths, a well-equipped boatyard with hoist and slipway, on-site fuel, and a range of shoreside services including marine engineering, chandlery, and hospitality businesses.

“Holy Loch Marina is a natural and welcome addition to our growing marina portfolio,” comments Ian Collier, Managing Director of Tingdene Group. “Its stunning location, established reputation, and strong berth holder community make it an ideal fit for the group. We’re excited to continue the great work already happening here.”

Ethan Zone, Strategy Director at Tingdene Group added “This is a significant acquisition and distinctive milestone for the business as it is our first investment outside of England bringing us into one of the UK’s most iconic boating regions. Broadening our operation to Scotland and specifically Holy Loch Marina provides us with a new base for learning and growth creating exciting opportunities and challenges ahead.”

Holy Loch Marina has been family-run by the Downs family for over 25 years, originally developed by the late Matthew Downs. His children, Alison Allan and Stuart Downs, have played a key role in running the marina in recent years and will continue to be actively involved under Tingdene’s ownership.

“This marina has been a huge part of our lives,” said Alison. “It’s more than just a place—it’s a community that reflects our father’s vision. While it’s time for us to hand over ownership, we’re proud to continue working here and excited about what the future holds under Tingdene.”

Stuart added: “There’s a real comfort in knowing the marina is moving forward with people who value what’s been built here. We look forward to being part of this next chapter.”

Tingdene Marinas recognises the potential for further development at the site and is already exploring ways to enhance and expand the facilities in line with customer needs and the unique character of the location.

At the heart of every successful marina is a strong sense of community, and Holy Loch Marina is a shining example of that,” said Steve Arber, Operations Director at Tingdene Marinas. “We’re incredibly proud to become part of this well-established boating family and deeply respectful of the legacy built here over the past 25 years. Our focus will be on listening to berth holders, supporting the existing team, and ensuring that the marina continues to be a welcoming, vibrant hub for both locals and visitors. We believe in growing with communities, not just operating within them.”

Easily accessible via the Gourock ferry, the marina offers a balance of tranquillity, scenery, and convenience. With deep-water berths and direct access to some of the finest cruising grounds on the west coast of Scotland, Holy Loch Marina is a favourite among local and visiting boaters alike.

The acquisition brings Tingdene’s second marina acquisition in as many months, seeing the marina network grow to 12 locations across the UK, spanning inland and coastal waters, and reflects the group’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality berthing and services for boaters nationwide.

Tingdene Group’s acquisition was supported by Shoosmiths LLP, who led the legal due diligence. Holy Loch was supported by Mckee Campbell Morrison Solicitors, with the sale and marketing process being overseen by Christie & Co.