Marine and Maritime including Aquaculture

Dorset’s Marine and Maritime sector is a key contributor to the local economy, offering opportunities in clean propulsion, yacht manufacturing and aquaculture.

The region’s strong maritime businesses, Research & Development (R&D) opportunities, and high-quality water resources make it a hub for sustainable marine and aquaculture industries and innovation.

BattleLab

Located at Dorset Innovation Park the facility is home to end-users from different trades and specialisations across Defence

Boat Building Academy

A leading boat building school in the UK and the world, offering a range of courses on the art of boat building and woodworking.

British Marine

The trade association for the UK leisure, superyacht and small commercial marine industry. 

Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture (Cefas)

Marine and freshwater science experts tackling climate change, marine litter, over-fishing and pollution to secure a sustainable blue future for all.

Dorset Coast Forum

An independent coastal partnership delivering a range of social, environmental and economic opportunities relevant to the Dorset coast, its communities and its seas. 

Jurassic Coast Trust

The independent charity responsible for protecting and conserving the UNESCO World Heritage status of the Jurassic Coast. 

Maritime UK SW

A public, private research partnership focusing on the Great South West dedicated to increasing the marine and maritime economy. 

Port of Poole

Europe’s largest natural harbour and one of the UK’s largest Trust Ports with two marinas handling freight, ferries and cruise ships. 

Portland Port

The largest cruise port in South West England; a vital cargo gateway, a key partner for the MoD and home to marine engineering firms. 

South West Aquaculture Network (SWAN)

Part of MUKSW - sustainably enhancing aquaculture production in line with the evolving national aquaculture strategy and international development goals.  

South West Manufacturing Advisory Service (SWMAS)

Delivering hands on support, impartial advice and expert guidance to manufacturers across the South West. 

South West Regional Defence & Security Cluster (SWRDSC) 

A collaboration led by industry and academia with the support of government and ministerial departments including MOD and DASA.

Tech South West

A member organisation to support, connect and showcase the tech sector across the South West.  

Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy

A centre for sailing events, close links with the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) and the training base for the British Sailing Team.