Neil Marine strengthens boat building capacity with new Dikovita yard

Saturday, 22 August 2026 00:09 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Neil Marine Group has expanded its boatbuilding operations with a new Rs. 50 million-plus manufacturing facility at Dikovita, Wattala, as the company seeks to increase production, create jobs and strengthen Sri Lanka’s position in the international boatbuilding market.

The new yard, approved by the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka, has been established on previously abandoned land belonging to the Ceylon Fishery Harbours Corporation.

The project represents a public-private partnership aimed at putting underutilised state assets to productive use while expanding private-sector manufacturing capacity.

The company described the facility as a new chapter in its manufacturing journey, with its broader ambition captured in the message: “Built in Sri Lanka. Exported to the world.”

The facility was recently opened with religious observances led by the Maha Sangha under the patronage of the Incumbent of Ratmalana Mallikaramaya, Ven. Pandita Ranasgalle Gnanaweera Thero.

The occasion also paid tribute to the late Neil Fernando, founder of Neil Marine Group, whose vision helped build the company into a recognised name in Sri Lanka’s boatbuilding industry over more than five decades.

The Dikovita yard is expected to provide additional production capacity for Neil Marine and support the company’s plans to expand its presence in export markets. The company said the investment would contribute to higher export earnings and generate new employment opportunities.

Operations at the facility are headed by Officer-in-Charge Ajith Susantha and his team, under the leadership of Group Chairman Kumari Fernando, Group President Manel Fernando and CEO Shan Perera.

Deputy Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources Minister Rathna Gamage, Industries’ Ministry Boatbuilding Sector Chairman Indra Kaushal Rajapaksha, representatives of the Export Development Board and other Government and industry officials attended the opening.

The investment comes as Sri Lanka seeks to develop higher-value manufacturing industries capable of generating foreign exchange and employment, while reducing dependence on traditional export sectors.

For Neil Marine, the new facility is also intended to reinforce the company’s role in an industry with potential for greater export diversification. The company plans to use the Dikovita site as a production base for boats serving both domestic and overseas markets.