Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Expert Boat Builders in Whitby Since 1971
Established in 1971, Parkol Marine Engineering has grown from a small repair business to a leading UK boat builder with over 70 employees. Our team combines traditional craftsmanship with modern technology, delivering vessels that meet rigorous industry standards. With two yards in Whitby and Middlesbrough, we specialise in new builds, maintenance, and refits for commercial and custom vessels. Our in-house marine architect and engineers ensure every project aligns with client specifications while prioritising safety, efficiency, and crew comfort.Recognised as Boat of the Year winners six times since 2015, we serve clients across the UK and Europe. Our dry dock facility, operational since 1997, supports repairs and refits, while our commitment to innovation includes proprietary safety monitoring systems and fuel efficiency solutions. With 50 years of experience, we remain family-owned and dedicated to exceeding client expectations through tailored engineering solutions.
Services
New Builds
Maintenance
Dry Dock
Fishing Boats
Unusual Builds
Details
- Year established: 1971
Highlights and features
- 50 years of experience in marine engineering and boat building
- In-house marine architect for custom designs and 3D modelling
- Own dry dock facility for repairs and refits
- Award-winning reputation for quality and innovation
- 70-strong team with expertise in steel, aluminium, and wood hulls
What people say
Award-winning craftsmanship
Dedicated in-house team
Innovative safety systems
Fuel efficiency solutions
50 years of experience
Services
New Builds
Parkol designs and constructs bespoke steel, aluminium, and wooden vessels from 10 to 34 metres. Our in-house marine architect uses 3D modelling to translate client visions into efficient, safe, and comfortable boats. Each build adheres to MCA, Seafish, and IMO standards, incorporating advanced navigation, fuel efficiency, and safety systems. Clients benefit from 50 years of expertise and a 70-strong team.
Maintenance
We provide comprehensive maintenance to extend vessel lifespans and optimise performance. Services include drivetrain analysis, fuel efficiency upgrades, and repairs to propulsion systems. Our dry dock facility enables work both in and out of water, while proprietary safety monitoring systems ensure ongoing compliance. Clients receive tailored solutions to reduce costs and enhance operational reliability.
Dry Dock
Our dry dock in Whitby accommodates vessels up to 42 metres for repairs, refits, and maintenance. Capable of handling two 60ft boats simultaneously, the facility supports hull blasting, metallisation, and structural modifications. Regular upgrades ensure it meets modern demands, allowing efficient servicing of commercial fishing boats, ferries, and custom builds across the UK and Europe.
Fishing Boats
Specialising in fishing vessels from 10 to 34 metres, we build twin/single rig trawlers, gill netters, and salmon feed carriers. Designs prioritise crew comfort, safety, and productivity, with features like home-from-home living quarters and advanced sonar systems. Over 50 fishing boats launched since 1997 reflect our deep industry knowledge and commitment to sustainable, efficient solutions.
Unusual Builds
Parkol creates unique vessels tailored to specific client needs, from pilot boats to experimental designs. The process involves close collaboration, 3D visualisation, and advanced engineering to ensure structural integrity and performance. Clients benefit from a hands-on approach, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to deliver innovative, high-quality results.
People
Jim Morrison
Managing Director
Jim founded Parkol in 1971, transitioning from offshore oil welding to shipbuilding. He oversees daily operations and maintains a hands-on role in yard management, blending leadership with practical expertise.
James Morrison
Fabrication Manager & Director
James joined Parkol in 1991, progressing from apprentice to director. He manages fabrication projects, leveraging his welding and metallurgy expertise to ensure quality and precision in every build.
Andrew Oliver
Engineering Manager & Director
Andrew, son of co-founder John Oliver, leads engineering activities. A marine engineering graduate, he joined in 1998 and became a director in 2011, driving innovation and technical excellence.
Sally Atkinson
Commercial Director
Sally transitioned from civil engineering to Parkol in 2013, bringing expertise in infrastructure projects. She focuses on commercial strategy, procurement, and client relations, ensuring projects meet financial and operational goals.
Ian Paton
Technical Director
Ian, a naval architect since 1982, joined Parkol in 1996. He specialises in fishing boat design, combining passion with technical mastery to create vessels that balance functionality, safety, and efficiency.
Questions
What types of vessels does Parkol build?
Parkol constructs fishing boats, workboats, ferries, and custom vessels from 10 to 34 metres, using steel, aluminium, or wood hulls tailored to client specifications.
Can Parkol handle international projects?
Yes, we serve clients across the UK and Europe, with experience in exporting vessels and meeting diverse regulatory standards.
What services are available outside new builds?
We offer maintenance, refits, dry dock repairs, propeller refurbishment, hull modifications, and upgrades to safety and fuel efficiency systems.
How does Parkol ensure quality and safety?
All builds meet MCA, Seafish, and IMO standards, with proprietary safety monitoring systems and rigorous quality checks throughout the construction process.
Is Parkol involved in sustainable practices?
We promote sustainable fishing methods and incorporate fuel efficiency solutions, reducing environmental impact while enhancing vessel performance.
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