A Seachange is on the Horizon!

Haven Knox-Johnston is back!

The revival comes under the new ownership of the renowned Aston Lark group, following their purchase of MS Amlin’s Kent-based yacht operation. Contract terms have been agreed and the deal is expected to formally complete in January.

Co-founded in 1986 by Chris Knox-Johnston, the brother of sailing legend Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, Haven Knox-Johnston grew to be one of the most recognised brands in UK boating. Re-branded MS Amlin in 2016, following its acquisition by insurance giant MS&AD, the Haven Knox-Johnston name will now be restored with a fresh new look and personal approach to boat insurance.

Aston Lark, as one of the UK’s top five independent insurance brokers, shares many of the traditional Haven Knox-Johnston values. The combined ethos of customer care and a focus on the smallest detail, makes them the perfect fit to reignite the Haven Knox-Johnston brand. The existing friendly, knowledgeable crew understand that being an active part of the close-knit boating community, with its unique sense of camaraderie, is key to past and future success. Haven Knox-Johnston stands for straightforward insurance products providing cover at fair prices.

Peter Blanc, Aston Lark Group CEO, said: “I’m delighted that Aston Lark will be reviving the historic Haven Knox-Johnston brand and I’m looking forward to developing the business significantly over the coming months, whilst ensuring a continuation of the high level of service customers have come to expect.”

Paul Knox-Johnston, Business Development Manager and son of late founder Chris Knox-Johnston said, “We are excited to now be part of the Aston Lark group and look forward to working together with shared ambitions to bring about a new chapter in boat insurance. So many of our loyal customers still think of us as Haven Knox-Johnston and it is great that Aston Lark recognises the strength of the brand. A new owner means a fresh start and the opportunity to innovate, acting upon customer feedback and new ideas which will set us apart from other insurers.”

Founding family member Sir Robin Knox-Johnston said, “I am so pleased that Haven Knox-Johnston, the brand my brother Chris and I helped to build over so many years, is coming back. The original business was built on pillars of knowledge, fairness and integrity and I am confident this will continue under the new ownership of Aston Lark.”