Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding has marked its 25th year in business with an anniversary rally, which took place between Friday 23rd and Sunday 25th July.
The rally welcomed pre-registered owners of Cockwells’ vessels to join its anniversary fleet and sail from Falmouth to Dartmouth and Yarmouth.
Following Cockwells’ acquisition of Hardy Marine’s assets in 2020, the occasion also marked the 40th anniversary of the Hardy Owners’ Club. The fleet was enhanced by a wide range of Hardy motor boats from its earliest hulls to the latest Hardy Hybrid 42 – the first to be completed by Cockwells and launched in Cornish waters.
The rally commenced with a reception at Flushing Sailing Club’s new headquarters with champagne and a hog roast sponsored by Barrus UK and Yanmar Marine UK during the Friday evening. Guests were transported across the water from Falmouth Haven in luxury, courtesy of Cockwells’ glamorous launch, Grace, with her rich mahogany decks and superyacht style.
Flushing Sailing Club was a particularly fitting venue to mark the start of the rally as Cockwells donated the wooden staircase and bar top for its striking new clubhouse. This provided an opportunity for attendees to view the exemplary craftsmanship for which Cockwells is renowned, first hand.
A drinks reception with canapes at Dartmouth Yacht Club followed on the Saturday evening and the rally concluded with a reception at The Terrace restaurant in Yarmouth, sponsored by Raymarine.
“The anniversary fleet of 28 vessels including Duchy Motor Launches; the pilot cutter, Polly Agatha; all manner of Hardys, from the Hardy 20 motor sailor to the latest Hardy 65, created quite a sight to see and we experienced favourable weather conditions as well as warm greetings at each of our destinations,” explained the Company’s Founder and Managing Director, Dave Cockwell.
“As a family-owned British company, we were proud to welcome old friends and Hardy owners to the Cockwells family as we strengthen our commitment to the development of the Hardy brand,” added Dave. “I would like to thank everyone who participated in our anniversary rally and made it happen – from those who cruised the coastline with us and the harbour staff at Falmouth Haven, Dartmouth and Yarmouth who accommodated us on their pontoons, to the hospitality teams at our three venues, our generous sponsors and the Cockwells’ colleagues who worked so hard behind the scenes. With our strong forward order book and continual programme of investment, we eagerly anticipate what the future holds in the next 25 years and beyond.”
For further information about Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding, visit cockwells.co.uk
