Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding marks 25 years of business with a flourish.
Hardy 42 Hybrid, Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding
Following Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding’s acquisition of Hardy Marine’s assets last year, the award-winning company marks its 25th anniversary in business with another history-defining moment: the launch of its first Hardy 42 in Cornish waters.
Described by Motor Boat & Yachting magazine as ‘the serious cruiser’s choice’, and arguably the class leader of her size and type, the Hardy 42 is an exceptional vessel with outstanding sea-keeping capability at more than 25 knots. It blends elegant looks with luxurious accommodation and wide, safe, walk-around decks with a generously-proportioned aft deck and flybridge to provide plenty of outdoor living space.
The 31st Hardy 42, which is the first to be completed by Cockwells, is also the first of the renowned Hardy brand of all-weather motor yachts, designed by Andrew Wolstenholme to incorporate hybrid propulsion and a digital switching system for full control and monitoring of all systems from both the wheelhouse and flybridge.
Talking to Dave Cockwell, company Founder and Managing Director, we learn that Cockwells will continue to build the Hardy 42 to its well-respected traditional design. However, they have also designed two entirely new models – the Hardy 45 and Hardy 53 – that will deliver the ultimate modern cruising experience for multi-generational maritime adventures.
“Cockwells’ Hardys provide an incredibly sturdy, safe, spacious and stylish home from home that are perfect for coastal cruising anywhere in the world, and we are immensely proud to build them,” says Dave. “Whether you plan to navigate great seaways, island-hop in the Caribbean, stay close to the coast of the British Isles,” he continues, “or fancy a Baltic crossing, cruising inland waterways, or sailing the Mediterranean, across to Malta and out into the Aegean Sea, the possibilities are endless.”
Based on the classic Hardy 42 hull, the all-new Hardy 45 is not only designed to deliver outstanding performance across the spectrum of marine environments. It’s also ergonomically designed to provide comfortable, personal space for all aboard. There are two en-suite state rooms: one VIP guest suite forward, with scissor-action v-berths that convert into a double with ease, and a luxury cabin aft that allows privacy for time out – an air-conditioned sanctuary in which to cool down, away from the heat of the midday sun, or in colder climes, a centrally-heated cocoon.
New side window profiles soften the exterior and a flush-closing side-deck, with doors port and starboard, provides easy access to the helm and spacious saloon, which exudes contemporary style. The layout of the flybridge seating has been modified to maximise space and enhance comfort. A radar arch replaces the radar mast of the original design to accommodate a clear sliding door between the aft companionway and aft deck where you can dine beneath the stars.
Left, Hardy 53 saloon, middle, Hardy 53 exterior, right, Hardy 45 saloon. Images courtesy of Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding
Based on the tried-and-tested Hardy 50 hull, the new Hardy 53 reflects the look and feel of the Hardy 45 but offers three luxury cabins as standard, plus a larger swim platform to accommodate the boat’s RIB or tender, providing more space for entertaining on the aft deck.
Left, Forward Cabin in Hardy 45 and 53, right, Hardy 45 Owner’s Cabin. Images courtesy of Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding
“As with our popular range of Duchy Motor Launches, you can have any layout you choose,” adds Dave. “Whether you opt for a galley in the saloon, and a larger VIP guest cabin forward with separate heads and shower cubicle in your Hardy 45; wish to convert the third cabin of your Hardy 53 into storage space for your paddleboards, bikes and other toys, or create a fourth cabin by incorporating the galley within the saloon, we can create a Hardy that is uniquely yours.”
Cockwells is also committed to building the Hardy 40DS and 52DS models to their original designs, and has already completed its first Hardy 52DS hull. This striking explorer yacht, developed from the Hardy 50, which is ideal for exploring in all weathers, offers double-berthed en-suite owner’s accommodation; two twin-berthed cabins with shared heads/shower, and a generously-proportioned deck saloon and cockpit area with plenty of space for dining. There is also the option of a spacious flybridge for relaxing and enjoying the view.
Hardy 45, Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding
For anyone excited to own this boat for sea-faring adventures next year, Cockwells’ first Hardy 52DS is ready for her interior fit-out, with Dave inviting interested clients to act now and make the most of an advantageous price. Why not get a head start on designing this stunning new craft to your own exact requirements?