Mike's Story
Mike grew up in Plymouth, Devon and trained as a Naval Architect at Plymouth University. His career took him across the globe, building and running a successful ship design and engineering consultancy alongside a yacht charter business. As an Ocean Yachtmaster and transatlantic race skipper, attention to detail, safety, and mechanical reliability have always been non-negotiable.
Alongside this, Mike has been a lifelong automotive enthusiast. From learning to drive at just 10 years old on his family's farm, to buying and rebuilding his first car — a Mini purchased for £35 at 18 — his passion for vehicles has been constant.
Over the past 30 years he has privately bought, refurbished, and sold a wide range of cars — culminating in the launch of Ocean City Cars in 2025.
Browse Our Stock
Our Approach
With a strong engineering background and hands-on mechanical experience, Mike understands both the complexity and the importance of properly prepared vehicles. This isn't just about presentation — it's about substance. Every car is carefully selected and driven over meaningful distances before sale, helping to identify and resolve issues early.
Engineering-Led Preparation
Mechanical understanding shapes how every car is assessed and prepared — substance over surface.
Driven Over Real Distances
Cars are driven over meaningful distances pre-sale to surface any issues before they reach you.
Independent Servicing & MOT
All servicing and MOT work is carried out by a trusted, fully independent garage — never in-house.
Minimum 6 Months’ MOT
Every vehicle is supplied with at least 6 months’ MOT remaining for added confidence.
Pre-Delivery Safety Inspection
Each car undergoes a comprehensive pre-delivery safety inspection before it leaves us.
6 Months’ Independent Warranty
Every car comes with 6 months’ independent warranty cover as standard.
Why Choose Ocean City Cars
Buying a used car should feel straightforward and transparent — not uncertain. The focus here is quality over volume. Each vehicle is individually selected, thoroughly test driven, and prepared to a standard that reflects an engineering mindset rather than a "turnaround" approach.
Properly tested, not just presented
Vehicles are driven over meaningful distances prior to sale to help uncover issues early.
Engineering-led preparation
Our mechanical understanding shapes how cars are assessed and prepared.
Independent inspection
All servicing and MOT work is carried out by a trusted, independent garage.
Attention to detail
From mechanical condition to cosmetic finish, nothing is overlooked.
Straightforward, honest approach
Clear descriptions, no sales pressure, and no unpleasant surprises.
The aim is simple: to offer well-prepared, carefully selected cars that stand up to real-world use — not just forecourt appeal.
Member of the IMDA
Ocean City Cars is a proud member of the Independent Motor Dealers Association (IMDA) — a recognised body that supports independent dealers in upholding high standards of conduct, transparency, and customer care.
For our customers, that membership means real, practical reassurance:
- An industry-recognised consumer code that sets out exactly what you can expect when you buy from us.
- Access to the IMDA-backed independent dispute resolution scheme if anything ever needs sorting out.
- Ongoing dealer training and standards — we stay up to date with consumer law and best practice.
- A clear, impartial route to raise concerns, on top of our own commitment to looking after you.
In short — IMDA membership is an extra layer of accountability and peace of mind, on top of the warranty, MOT and inspection that already come with every car we sell.
Learn more about the IMDABuy with Confidence
Browse our hand-picked, properly prepared used cars — or get in touch and we will help you find exactly the right one.
Meet the Team
The dedicated professionals behind our success
Mike Blackledge
Founder & Car Specialist
With a life long passion for cars, Mike is also a naval architect, transatlantic race skipper and yacht master.
What Sets Us Apart
Our commitment to excellence in every aspect of our service
Quality Assurance
Every vehicle undergoes rigorous inspection and comes with comprehensive warranties for your peace of mind.
Personal Service
We take time to understand your needs and find the perfect vehicle for your lifestyle and budget.
Local Expertise
Deep knowledge of local conditions helps us recommend the right vehicles for your area.
After-Sales Support
Our relationship doesn't end at the sale. We provide ongoing support and advice for all your automotive needs.
Experience the Difference
Ready to find your perfect vehicle? Explore our collection or get in touch with our expert team for personalized guidance.