"GOOD news for Southampton" as yacht manufacturer advertises 130 new jobs.

Luxury yacht manufacturer Oyster Yachts, which is headquartered in Southampton, is looking for a workforce to help fulfil its full order book.

There are 130 jobs being advertised "building some of the world’s most beautiful blue-water boats", with full training and competitive packages on offer.

The company says whilst it would welcome those with traditional boat building skills, it’s also looking for people with transferable skills, such as a electricians and joiners, painters, and engineers.

Becky Bridgen, Deputy CEO Oyster Yachts, said: “Over the last year, we have seen a period of unprecedented growth, which despite the economic challenges the UK is facing, is encouraging.

"With full order books into 2023, we are able to offer our staff much needed financial stability and good career opportunities.

"It is an exciting time for Oyster Yachts, and we look forward to sharing the journey with all our employees, new and existing."

MP's have now spoken out about the positive news during a time when a lot of jobs have been lost due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

MP for Southampton Test, Alan Whitehead, said: "One of the really good things about Oyster Yachts is that, contrary to a lot of industries, they have a full order book.

"The Solent has been a good base for boat building and there's a concentration of industry in this part of the world that supports a company like Oyster.

"They really are an example of a success story and it's really good news for Southampton, so we need to support them in any way that we can."

MP for Southampton, Itchen, Royston Smith, said: "What is especially gratifying, in this time of little or no good news on jobs, is that they are taking on more people and those skills are transferable.

"It's excellent news for the local area and employment."

Oyster has a full order book for its hand-crafted blue water sailing boats, which range from 50 to 125 feet.

The company has just launched its new 50-foot model and initial interest is set to increase demand on production in the New Year.