North East superyacht specialist West Nautical has expanded its global reach with the launch of a new office in Dubai.

The Newcastle business, which also has international bases in France, Italy, Cyprus, the Balearics and South Africa, said it picked Dubai as its next office location after seeing huge growth in the yachting market in recent years, attracting enthusiasts from around the world. The office is based in the Business Bay area, which it said was strategically chosen to strengthen its position as a leading player in the yachting market.

A spokeswoman said the Business Bay area’s vibrant environment, modern infrastructure and connectivity make it an ideal hub for conducting business while providing easy access to the city’s marinas, yacht clubs and waterfront. The company will offer its full range of services from the Dubai base, including sales, charter, yacht management and crew recruitment.

Geoff Moore, MD of West Nautical, said: “We are thrilled to be expanding into the incredible city of Dubai where the superyacht market has seen significant growth in recent years. We have a great Dubai based team ready to serve our clients.”

The move comes a month after the firm acquired marine and watersports equipment and accessories specialist Storrar Marine from liquidation, after it fell victim to soaring costs. The business was relaunched in June as Marine Chandlery, at its new Marine Chandlery headquarters in North Tyneside.

As a result the group, which has just under 30 employees, now operates three brands, with West Nautical, based in Jesmond, providing brokerage services for yacht sales and charter, Team Valley-based Nautical Management Services representing the companies’ yacht and vessel, and Marine Chandlery based at the Tyne Tunnel Trading Estate.

Mr Moore added: “We are extremely proud to be a North East company and will continue to grow and service within the global maritime industry. With the addition of Marine Chandlery, not only can we continue to serve the superyacht industry, but we are excited to exceed expectations of the leisure and commercial boat owners across the region.”