Meet the Team

James Barke is Joint Managing Director. He deals with the day-to-day management of the business, and takes responsibility for sales, marketing, purchasing and HR. He also loves boats!!!

Nick Barke is responsible for day to day management of the of the businesses with his brothers James Guy and David, Nicks focus is customer satisfaction, followed by sales and many other aspects of the wider business including global specialist advice. 

If you have any feedback good or bad on our team or any aspect of the business Nick would love to hear from you nick@boats.co.uk 7 days a week.

Guy Barke manages the our salvage division, helping to both recover and sell boats.

David Barke Jnr. was the fourth and final brother to join the family business in 2006. With over 18 years marine engineering experience, David specialises in all aspects of engineering. After spending two years growing the business in Majorca, David returns to our Essex HQ in 2019 to focus his time on the smooth running of the marina and customer relations.

David Barke Senior started the company in the late1960’s so has a wealth of experience in all aspects of running a boatyard and marina.

Darren Pilbeam has been with Boats.co.uk since January 2005 and as part of the sales team has developed an excellent knowledge of all aspects of the Boat business. With a strong passion and drive to succeed instilled at an early age, Darren has been fundamental in the rapid development and success of all aspects for Boats.co.uk as well as recently elevating the Williams Performance Tender Brand to being the UK's No1.

Dan Chaffe has been with Boats.co.uk for over 17 years now. His main job role is directed at all new & used boat sales.

On most sunny days you will also find Dan out in the yard helping with crane lifts, boat movements, sea-trials and making sure boats go out perfectly.

If you are looking for your first boat or even considering an upgrade why not call or drop in and visit Dan at our Essex office as he will be happy to help.

Carl Hooper joined the Boats.co.uk sales team as a Sales Manager in January 2024 fulfilling his life long dream of working in the leisure boat industry. Based at our Essex HQ, he deals with new and used boats and manages the Kawasaki JetSki’s. 

Carl also travels to our Cala D’Or, Mallorca office regularly to photograph and list the boats we have for sale there too. Carl loves sales and he loves boats which means customers get the service they deserve!

Tom Pringle joined boats.co.uk in October 2005. He specialises in marine electronics. After Tom achieved a degree in engineering, he joined the Essex team learning all aspects of boat fitouts and becoming an integral part of the team. Tom is now the Kawasaki UK Sales Manager. He deals with everything Kawasaki. 

Charles has over 40 years experience in the marine industry. As well as working in new and used boat sales in Cala d'Or, Charles manages our Cala d'Or charter boats. Charles has worked with Boats.co.uk since 2015. 

Kate Barke joined the family business in 2011, taking on the role of Marina Manager. This role sees Kate ensuring that the office runs smoothly by managing accounts, liaising with customers, keeping the office stocked and ensuring staff are fully equipped for their roles.

Maddy Vaughan joined the marina team to assist Kate with the day-to-day running of the marina office.

Sam Easton joined our team in October 2014. He makes sure boat movements are carried out for customers and maintenance issues are managed within the yard and the marina.

Brandon Adcock joined the team in 2016. He works closely with Guy, Sam and Dave on boat movements and keeping the yard clean and tidy. Brandon helps to carry out all general yard duties.

Tony Knight joined the company in 2004 having worked within the city banking industry for several years. After graduating from Bournemouth University with a BA Hons Degree in Accounting, Tony became responsible for the administration and finances of the company. His many duties include monthly reporting & forecasts, bank reconciliations, wages, audit work, preparation of year end. He is an integral part of the management team and provides information for regular meetings with the Directors.

Sarah Barke has been working with Boats.co.uk since October 2009, helping out with accounts and administration behind the scenes on a part time basis. Sarah's role has developed into the service side now as well, and she helps to organise the various warranty issues that arise, as well as sourcing parts for boats & customers.

Chris Browning has been with Boats.co.uk since February2002. He is a Marine Engineer of 12 years covering all aspects of maintenance diagnostics and repairs on boats and yachts. He is also qualified in light /heavy/ plant engineering and automotive electronics. Chris looks after the engineering department for used boats and brokerage ensuring that the boats go out on time and in line with customer expectations. 

Steven Janes joined boats.co.uk in February 2008 and is an engineer with over 27 years of experience in the marine industry, he looks after all new and used boats plus warranty and repairs for our customers on the south coast.