Rockley Is Named British Marine Business Of The Year 2026

Rockley is delighted to announce that they have been named British Marine Business of the Year 2026.

The British Marine National Awards, which took place in collaboration with the British Marine Trades Association awards on Monday 21st September, recognises outstanding individuals and businesses who have helped shape and strengthen the marine industry.

The award comes during a landmark year for Rockley as the business celebrates its 50th anniversary. What began in 1976 as a small, family-run sailing business in Poole Harbour with a caravan on the beach and a handful of boats has grown into a thriving organisation. Rockley now operates multiple centres in the UK delivering watersports, RYA training, a sixth form education programme and family experiences to thousands of people each year. 

The award follows Rockley’s success earlier this year, when it was named Business of the Year at the inaugural Access to Boating Sector Award. The recognition highlighted Rockley’s ongoing commitment to widening participation in boating and inspiring more young people to explore careers and opportunities within the marine sector.

Rockley owner Peter Gordon commented: “We feel incredibly proud to receive this recognition, not just for what we have achieved this year, but for everything Rockley has accomplished over the past 50 years. Rockley has a very special place within our industry, both here and around the world. There can be few companies in the UK marine industry that don’t have at least one person within their organisation who has worked at Rockley, learnt to sail with us, or completed their instructor training here. 

“We love the fact that we are everywhere.”

Over five decades, Rockley has faced its share of challenges, but it is their commitment to creating opportunities that has continued to drive the business forward. “It’s an incredibly proud moment for us. Despite the countless challenges we have faced over the years, our passion for the water, our vision and our incredible team, both past and present have come together to create something truly special” said Managing Director, Pip Woods.

Commercial Director, Jack Clark added: 

“For me, this award is ultimately about the people who have made Rockley what it is today. It represents an enormous amount of hard work, commitment and dedication from our teams who have continually invested in the business and helped drive it forward. 

“To receive this recognition in our 50th year is such a fantastic way to celebrate what has been achieved by so many amazing people at Rockley.”

Rockley continues to look at ways to develop the business and create new opportunities while still maintaining their vision - to continue sharing their passion for the water and outdoors and changing people’s lives through the experiences they create.