Taking up the story, James says: 'It’s during challenging times such as these, that end–user customers and business introducers (boat dealers and builders), tend towards instructing a lender with greater experience; one who can offer a sense of reassurance and reliability, as can be found within Barclays name and world class reputation.'

James continues: 'For quite some time now we have invested significant personnel and marketing resource to successfully promote Barclays Marine Finance products to a far wider overseas customer base. This investment, combined with Barclays already established international branch network and global profile has paid dividends and contributes significantly to our success. During September, for example, we will exhibit at four major international boat shows, including the Southampton, Cannes, Monaco and the Exclusive Yachting Show in Athens.'

This inherent feel good factor creates customer loyalty and generates repeat business. One such example is that offered by Barclays long-standing relationship with Stefan Wertens and David Ward, directors of Sunseeker Charters Ltd. Having recently completed the acquisition of their 12th boat, a Sunseeker Manhattan 60, both, in fact, have been Barclays Marine Finance customers ever since they started out looking to finance their own personal yachts, some 30 years ago.

Fast forward to today and their combined passion for luxury yachts has developed into a highly successful business, acting as a type of marine letting agency for other Sunseeker owners. Barclays has and will continue to be there to finance their future business aspirations every step of the way.

Summarising his relationship with Barclays, David Ward adds: 'We've gone from purchasers of small boats to multi-million pounds vessels with Barclays Marine Finance, and to stay with them for over 30 years is testament to just how good their service is, and what astonishing value they deliver.'

One further way in which Barclays Marine Finance has tried to differentiate itself, has been to ensure that approved applications are processed and paid out as smoothly and efficiently as possible. As a result, several additional ‘deal closer’ managers have been recruited, with the authority to sign-off and drive deals forward more quickly.

Lee Hayes has been promoted internally to a field sales role, from the 1st August, and will assume the title of UK Marine Representative. As Barclays international marine business has expanded, Lee will be tasked specifically with maintaining Barclays exemplary face to face service, calling regularly upon core UK marine businesses and introducers.

Contact James Crew
Senior Marine Manager
Barclays Marine Finance
The Chandlery Building
Offices 3 & 4, 1st Floor
Hamble Point Marina
School Lane
Hamble
Southampton SO31 4NB
T: +44 (0)23 8045 6298
F: +44 (0)23 8045 6302
E: marine.finance@marinefinance.barclays.com
W: barclays.co.uk/marinefinance