The management of Isle of Skye Yachts were quick to acknowledge they could not have earned the award without help.

Directors Mark and Charmian Entwistle said: "We particularly appreciate the assistance and support we have received from our staff, boat owners, professional advisors and the local Enterprise Company, and there are many other people and businesses who have contributed in some way to our success".

The existing business of Sleat Marine Services was purchased from the retiring owner in December 1998 and was incorporated as Isle of Skye Yachts in December 2002.

The original assets were five yachts - four of them under charter management for their owners - a large workshop and customer base of around 150.

Today the fleet consists of 10 boats. The company has built up a client base of 450 for bareboat charters, bareboat with skipper or individual berth skippered charters.

Isle of Skye Yachts also offers boat repair and maintenance to local and visiting yachts and is the only yacht-yard north of Arnamurchan capable of handling deep-keeled vessels of up to 15 tonnes.