Craobh Marina, located between Lochgilphead and Oban, has been acquired by Brian and Shelia Norton and their three adult children. With the support of HSBC UK funding, the family will now expand the marina’s capacity to accommodate the growing number of large vessels visiting Scotland’s West Coast. 

They also plan to make significant improvements to the pontoons, boatyard areas, and amenities, as well as reopening the long-vacant pub and adding new features that benefit both marina users and local residents, such as a floating sauna. The work will prioritise sustainable upgrades, with solar panels installed on the pub and boatshed to improve EPC ratings and support the Marina’s wider goal of protecting the marine ecosystem.

The family’s passion for ocean adventures runs deep. After selling their previous business in 2009, Brian and Sheila spent two years sailing around the world with their children, Charlie (then aged 12). Freddie (11) and Annie (9). Today, all five family members will play an active role in the running of the marina, from event management and marketing, to operations and sustainable development.

Annie Norton, co-owner at Craobh Marina, said: “For our family, sailing has always been a way of life, and having completed a circumnavigation between 2009-2011 we came to settle in the West Coast of Scotland, after experiencing some of the best sailing in the world here.

“When the opportunity to take over Craobh arose, we knew there could never be a more perfect business venture for us to undertake than this – allowing us to combine our passion for sailing with our entrepreneurial spirit.

“We are so excited to put our experience as marina users into action and to join the community in Argyll & Bute. For us, this marina is more than a business – it is about building community, and providing a gateway to adventure for those who share our love of the sea. We very much look forward to welcoming you all.”

Allan McGraw, relationship manager at HSBC UK, added: “It’s not every day we support a venture where the whole family is at the helm, so it’s been a real privilege to work with the Nortons on the acquisition of Craobh Marina.

“Their passion for sailing and commitment to the community are evident in their plans, and this funding will help bring their ambitious vision to life.”

Craobh Marina will continue to build on the strong foundations laid by the existing marina team and previous family owners, with Brian and Sheila relocating to the area to bring their vision to life.

The marina includes 225 berths of varying size up to 22 meters, designed to accommodate 60-70ft yachts. The marina has 360-degree weather protection and direct access to the sea. Plans are in place to expand the marina’s capacity to meet rising demand as the West Coast develops into an internationally-recognised sailing destination.