About
Our History
Boat Gear Direct (BGD) is the retail division of EYE Marine Ltd, supplying high-quality marine mooring equipment across the UK and Europe. This online shop allows customers to order reliable, marine-grade products without needing to place large commercial bulk orders, while still having access to the same level of knowledge and support.
We supply mooring chains, marine rope, shackles, anchors and complete mooring assemblies used in real working environments. Our customers range from marina operators and harbour authorities through to boat owners, contractors and commercial marine businesses. Whether you need a single component or a complete setup, the focus is always on supplying equipment that will hold, last and perform properly in the conditions it is used in.
If you are unsure what you need, we would rather you speak to us before ordering. Getting the specification right at the start avoids failure, unnecessary wear and wasted cost.
A Brief Company History
Founded over 35 years ago by Paul Elliott, EYE Marine has grown from a local supplier into a recognised name within the UK and European marine industry. Based in Suffolk, the business has built its reputation on supplying dependable mooring, anchoring and berthing equipment backed by real experience.
Boat Gear Direct was created to make that same level of supply and expertise available online, without losing the direct access to knowledgeable people. This is not a generic e-commerce operation. It is a marine mooring supplier that happens to operate online, giving customers the option to order 24 hours a day while still being able to pick up the phone and speak to someone who understands the application.
More Than Just an Online Shop
Most marine equipment websites will sell products without understanding how they are used. That is where problems start.
We deal with real-world applications every day, from securing river exclusion zones on the Thames to supplying equipment used for anchoring America’s Cup weather buoys, through to supporting individual boat owners with the right shackle, rope or buoy for their setup.
That range of work matters because it means the advice you receive is based on what actually works, not just what is listed in a catalogue.
Mooring Equipment Marine Supply
We stock a wide range of marine-grade chains, ropes and mooring components designed for use in tidal, coastal and inland environments. This includes galvanised mooring chain, stud link chain, nylon and polyester rope, along with high-load shackles, swivels and connectors.
Alongside standard stock, we provide made-up assemblies and rope splicing services, preparing equipment so it is ready to install and use. This is important for customers who need reliable setups without having to piece systems together themselves.
Solving Mooring and Equipment Problems
A large number of customers come to us because something is not working as it should. Moorings dragging, chains wearing too quickly, incorrect rope selection or poorly configured systems are all common issues.
In most cases, the problem is not complicated. It is a mismatch between the environment, the load and the equipment being used. That is why we encourage customers to speak to us before ordering, especially if there is any uncertainty.
A short conversation can prevent the need to replace equipment later.
If you are working on a mooring setup, replacing equipment or trying to get the specification right, it is worth speaking to us first.
You can explain what you are trying to achieve, describe your setup or send through details of your current arrangement, and we will advise on the correct chain size, rope type and components needed to make it work properly.
Meet The Team
Adam
Director - Commercial
Bio. Adam heads up the commercial supply and deals with the larger trade accounts. Adam welcomes a phone call for advice and consulting about the right equipment for medium to large scale marine projects with 25 years in marine supply.
Paul
Director - Manager
Bio. Paul has 45 years in the marine supply industry. Overseeing the Boat Gear Direct customers and orders with attention to detail. Marketing lead and dispatch manager, HR lead and font of all knowledge in our industry.
Tom
Director - Accounts & Buying
Bio. Tom is responsible for the accounts, rates, commercial purchasing and reporting back to the other directors on all things financial. Tom also prices, oversees outbound orders and our warehouse/workshop teams welfare with 17 years in marine supply.
Flyn
Yard & Online Shop Editor
Bio. Our youngest mate, seen on the fork truck, in the yard cutting and preparing orders, learning fabricating and all things marine. Recently learning about e-commerce and how to administer the website.
Graham
Resident Rigger
Bio. With 40 years in engineering and working on tug boats for most of his life, Graham makes up the bespoke customer orders with splicing and fabrication. Also, overseeing the pick and pack, outbound orders and courier items.
Lucasz
Fabricator - Inbound
Bio. Our lead workshop fabricator, cutter and handman. Also seen on the forks, preparing orders, stock management and inbound orders manager.