About us
History
Pillory Gate Wharf in Sandwich.
Since the early 1970s Highway Marine has provided numerous services to both sailers and motorboat owners from our base at Pillory Gate Wharf in Sandwich.
Ever since its inception, the company has been run by the Blackmore family and continues to go from strength to strength encompassing many new aspects and services.
David Blackmore started the business back in 1975 having previously worked in marketing for a Guildford based pharmaceutical company.
Initially the firm was based in Maidstone before moving to it’s current premises in Strand Street, Sandwich.
Gallery
Sales
Highway Marine was the first Sandwich marina in operation, located just upstream of the ancient Toll Bridge.
Highway Marine has over 50 years sales experience ranging from yacht building & fitting-out, to brokerage and new boat sales, as well as selling marine products/chandlery and safety gear. We also cover marine contracting and have worked in tandem with the Environment Agency, Murphys, Dover District Council, Jacksons Civil Engineering, Mackleys as well as many other organisations.
The yacht brokerage was launched when the business began over 30 years ago by David’s wife Linda, and on average has over 70 active listings.
Richard Blackmore
David’s son Richard, has now run this successfully for the past 25 years and it continues to grow, encompassing all types of boats.
As a result of our experience we are able to provide honest, constructive advice which can help you make the best choice possible.
Moorings
This Sandwich marina boasts a wonderful position in the heart of medieval Sandwich. If you are looking for a secure Sandwich marina with floating pontoon berths, electricity and water and free parking – and yet with a relaxed rural feel, then Highway Mairne is the place for you. The moorings are located just up stream of the Toll bridge in Sandwich town centre. We also have moorings further upstream at Richborough and at Oare Creek near Faversham.
James Blackmore
We have a total of 90 river based moorings of different types, suitable for boats up to 80 feet. Some of the berths dry out at low tides, others stay afloat at all states of the tide.
If you are looking for the best of both worlds then our Sandwich marina offers just that, with access to the sea in just 30 minutes, but also with 15 miles of beautiful river and countryside to explore upstream almost as far as Canterbury.
If you have never moored in tidal river or indeed never owned a boat before, Highway Marine staff are pleased to offer boat handling advice and tuition.
For hardstanding customers there is access to power and water throughout the site and there is ample space to accommodate boats of any size. Locked gates, floodlights and lit free parking add to security. For our full list of boatyard services please click on Boatyard Services
So whether you are on the water or busy restoring your pride and joy we hope you will enjoy the friendly boatyard atmosphere and the beautiful Cinque Port.
For sailing yachts and other large boats heading out to sea the bridge can be swung 24hrs a day with one hours notice by calling 01843 582616 and there is no charge for this service.
Annual maintenance dredging
The River Stour
Heading up stream, there are 15 miles of picturesque river to explore, with lakes, woods, plenty of quiet countryside and two excellent riverside pubs, the Grove Ferry and Dog & Duck
