Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding has marked its 25th year in business with an anniversary rally.

The rally took place between Friday July 23 and Sunday July 25 and set off from Falmouth.

The rally welcomed pre-registered owners of Cockwells’ vessels to join its anniversary fleet and sail to both 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.

Falmouth Packet: The rally welcomed pre-registered owners of Cockwells’ vessels to join its anniversary fleet. Picture: Julian WeatherillThe rally welcomed pre-registered owners of Cockwells’ vessels to join its anniversary fleet. Picture: Julian Weatherill

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.

Falmouth Packet: 28 Cockwells and Hardy vessels cruised the coast from Falmouth to Dartmouth and Yarmouth during the rally. Picture: Julian Weatherill28 Cockwells and Hardy vessels cruised the coast from Falmouth to Dartmouth and Yarmouth during the rally. Picture: Julian Weatherill

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 new clubhouse.

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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.

Falmouth Packet: Reception at Dartmouth and Yarmouth awaited those taking part in the rally. Picture: Julian Weatherill Reception at Dartmouth and Yarmouth awaited those taking part in the rally. Picture: Julian Weatherill

The company’s founder and managing director, Dave Cockwell, said: "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.

Falmouth Packet: A vessel arriving in Falmouth. Picture: Julian Weatherill A vessel arriving in Falmouth. Picture: Julian Weatherill

"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.

"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.

Falmouth Packet: Setting off for distant shores. Picture: Julian Weatherill Setting off for distant shores. Picture: Julian Weatherill

"With our strong forward order book and continual programme of investment, we eagerly anticipate what the future holds for the next 25 years and beyond."

For further information about Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding, visit: cockwells.co.uk