Aitkens put Port Edgar marina put up for sale – Daily Business

Port Edgar Marina at South Queensferry has been put up for sale by Cara and Russell Aitken who have spent a decade revitalising the facility.

Since acquiring the long leasehold in 2014, the Aitkens have overseen a seven-figure investment programme which has included dredging, infrastructure upgrades, and the redevelopment of land-based assets.

The marina is a hub for boating, tourism, and waterfront retail. With berthing for over 300 vessels, full-service boatyard facilities, and established sailing schools, the marina attracts a wide range of leisure boaters, visitors, and marine professionals.

There are three “robust” revenue streams: marina operations, sub-leases to 25 third-party occupiers, and marine retail and services.

Tenants include Scotts Restaurant (operated by Buzzworks), Edinburgh Watersports, and Forth Tours. The ‘Beacon’ is a clothing and accessories retailer.

The sale, being led by Savills, includes the entire shareholding of Port Edgar (Holdings), Port Edgar Marina, and Production Yachts (Port Edgar), all business assets, operational interests, and the long leasehold of the property, which runs until 2100 from Edinburgh Council. No sale price has been disclosed.

Operations will continue as normal during and after the sale, with all staff and tenants remaining in place.

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.”

Richard Prestwich, director in the leisure and trade related team at Savills, comments: “This sale represents a rare opportunity to acquire a fully operational and established marina business in a strategic 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.”

Early in the 20th century the site served as a Royal Navy training base and later played a key role during World War II in minesweeping and anti-submarine operations across the North Sea.

The marina remained under Royal Navy control until 1978, when it was formally closed as a military facility and transitioned into civilian use – laying the foundations for the leisure destination it is today.