About
Established in 1979, Here at P J Downs we run a small family-run business, based in Langford, Essex, which prides itself on its quality of service. We only use our own drivers to ensure that boats – whether racing, leisure, or working – are treated with the utmost care throughout their journey. Many film and racing stars entrust their craft to us, P J Downs, who now move Princess Anne’s launch when required. Here at PJ Downs, we’re a local firm that believes in giving excellent service for a reasonable price and are always willing to help when we can, whether on a personal or professional level. As Peter says, “Whatever your requirement we offer a made-to-measure, door-to-door service, ensuring that your pride and joy is delivered carefully and safely.”
Boats, masts, and marine equipment all require specialist transport equipment, some of which are bespoke-built for certain customers. Over the years, we here at PJ Downs have both modified and manufactured its own trailers in-house, while refining the designs of various cradles, chocks, sliders, and securing equipment for a vast number of boat types, and other specialist loads. We also work with many local firms including the former Colvic Craft at Witham, Oysters, Gunfleet, Hardy Marina, and Downs Boatyard (no relation) in Maldon. We have also moved boats for the Clipper races, and brought masts ( many over 40+ meters ) back from Holland, as well as being involved in the mast work for the Cutty Sark, and the movement of many more of the artifacts on the ship when going for restoration, etc.
As well as UK deliveries, we offer competitive rates throughout Europe and have unbeatable prices when transporting loads to Sweden, Norway & Holland (although this often entails us being away from home for long periods of time! ) Us here at PJ Downs expertise with boats are built on a vast experience that includes work at the London Boat Shows at Earl’s Court and the subsequent Excel venue. Company-Owner, and driver of the current 580S Scanis 8×2 Rigid Crane Truck, Peter Downs has also worked at several other UK and European boat shows in Dusseldorf, Ghent, Hamburg, and Southampton. In 1996 and 1998 we also worked closely with the Clipper Round the World Yacht Races, transporting eight 60ft vessels. High-profile, high-value boat moves are frequently undertaken and include craft owned by the royal family and No 1 Trinity Houseboat. The latter job entailed a presence as part of the Lord Mayor’s Show for several consecutive years. Here at PJ Downs , the expertise with unusual, oversized loads has also seen complete jobs for a major film studio ( Pinewood Studios ) in past years, and major blockbusters such as The Man from Uncle, Tarzan, and Robin Hood all benefited from our Essex fleet’s involvement.
If it isn’t clear already we here at PJ Downs enjoy the challenges of our unique transport operation and pride ourselves in providing a top-quality service. With two members of our family’s second generation now on board – the future looks bright for this business.