From Historic Docks to Cinematic Triumph
Essex’s Marine Heritage Specialists – Powering the Film Industry
When audiences marvel at sweeping maritime scenes in blockbuster films, few realise the craftsmanship and expertise behind the camera. One of Essex’s best-kept secrets, Heritage Marine Ltd, plays a pivotal role in bringing these cinematic visions to life—quietly anchoring the global film industry from the historic Downs Road Boatyard in Maldon.
From Maldon Shipyard to Silver Screen
Founded and led by marine engineer Jim Dines, Heritage Marine has evolved from a traditional shipyard into a specialist provider for film and television. Jim’s career spans decades—from serving as an Engineer Officer in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary working on the design and build of two 40,000-ton tankers for the Ministry of Defence. Today, his passion for maritime heritage fuels a unique enterprise that blends engineering precision with creative artistry.
Heritage Marine doesn’t just restore historic vessels; it builds entire worlds for film. From authentic WWII landing craft to fantastical flying ships, Heritage Marine’s expertise has supported some of the most ambitious film projects in recent years:
- For Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein (2023), produced by Netflix, the team designed and shipped the rig for a full-size 120ft rigged vessel to Canada, then flew out to spend 5 weeks rigging the ship, standing by as specialist advisers on the shoot.
- In Paddington III: Paddington in Peru (2023), produced by StudioCanal and Heyday Films, the Heritage Marine team rigged and supplied maritime props and set decoration for gimbaled boat sets, built rope bridges, and provided marine training for cast and crew.
- For Paramount’s A Quiet Place: Day One (2023), directed by Michael Sarnoski, Heritage Marine supplied and operated a 1914 steel coaster as the hero ship for dramatic dockside scenes.
- Their work on Netflix’s Shadow and Bone involved designing and rigging three full-size fantasy sailing ships, training actors and stunt performers, and ensuring marine authenticity throughout production.
- And for The Last Voyage of the Demeter (2021), produced by DreamWorks and Universal, the Heritage team designed the rig, then flew out to Malta where on location they rigged the ship and operated a three-masted schooner and multiple gimbaled sets, delivering the eerie authenticity that brought Bram Stoker’s tale to life.
And that’s just a glimpse of a portfolio that spans Game of Thrones, Wonder Woman, Death on the Nile, and many more!.
A Skilled Crew Behind the Scenes
Heritage Marine’s strength lies in its people—a dedicated team of shipwrights, riggers, and sailors who understand both traditional craftsmanship and the demands of modern film production. Their expertise covers everything from set design and prop creation to marine coordination and safety on location.
Training the Next Generation
Through the Heritage Marine Foundation, Jim and his team are passing on these rare skills to young people, ensuring the preservation of maritime heritage while creating pathways into the film industry. These skills—rigging, engineering, navigation—are not only vital for historic vessels but also highly sought after in cinematic production.
Why Heritage Marine Matters
Film is a collaborative art form, and Essex’s cultural economy thrives on partnerships like this. Heritage Marine exemplifies how local businesses can contribute to global storytelling while sustaining traditional skills. Their work positions Essex as a film-friendly region with deep creative roots.
You can find out more about Heritage Marine and the services they offer to the film and TV sector here
Want to learn more or explore filming in Essex?
Visit Essex Film Office or contact us to discover how we can help you to promote your location or support your next production.
