Hardy Motor Yachts are more than just boats; they’re a symbol of British quality and adventure on the water. But who founded Hardy, when was it founded, and do they still make Hardy yachts? Let’s dive in.
Who Founded Hardy and when did it all begin?
Hardy Motor Boats, a renowned British boat manufacturer, was founded in 1975 by brothers David and John Hardy. Their inspiration came from the Norfolk Broads and their passion for sailing, leading them to create traditional watercraft designed to withstand the unpredictable UK weather.
In 1976, John Hardy established Hardy Marine, focusing on small cruisers that quickly gained popularity. Notable models such as the Hardy 36, Commander 32, and Commodore 42 solidified Hardy’s reputation as a builder of reliable all-weather yachts with a strong focus on onboard comfort. The Hardy 50 made a significant impact in 2004, and two Hardy 42s joined the Royal National Lifeboat Institution fleet for crew training. Hardy Marine also established associations with other major brands, including Raymarine, a manufacturer and major supplier of electronic equipment for marine use in the UK. Raymarine commissioned a Hardy 36 as their main test boat, and later, they opted for a Hardy 42. This 42-footer is still actively in use, with an impressive 7000 engine hours to date!
In 2013, Hardy Marine came under the ownership of the Windboats Group, a respected British boat builder with a long history dating back to 1920. This expansion broadened Hardy’s offerings to include motor sailers and pilot house yachts. However, the Windboats Group faced financial challenges in April 2020 due to COVID-19 and decided to offload the brand despite having a full order books for new Hardy boats. Over four decades, the Hardy motorboat range has evolved with modern technology while preserving the core values of extended cruising and comfortable living aboard.
Where are Hardy Yachts Built?
Cockwells Modern and Classic Boatbuilding, founded by boat builder Dave Cockwell, acquired the company’s assets in 2020 and now continues to build Hardy boats in Cornwall. His dedication is to preserve the original designs and continue the legacy that began with John Hardy’s vision. Situated at the eco-friendly HQ near Falmouth in Mylor Creek, Cockwells, in collaboration with Andrew Wolstenholme, is renowned for crafting exquisite bespoke boats, including semi-displacement yachts, expedition yachts, and trawlers, honoring tradition while embracing innovation.
What are Hardys good for?
Hardy Motor Yachts are made for offshore cruising. While Hardys are versatile and well-suited for various maritime adventures, they are particularly tough and ready to take you through challenging conditions when offshore cruising. Hardys are great for:
- Cruising Adventures – Ideal for exploring the open sea, coastal waters, or inland waterways.
- Family Getaways – Family-friendly with separate spaces and comfortable cabins.
- Luxury Retreats – Elevated experiences with spacious saloons and outdoor living areas.
- Safe Passage – Enhanced safety for challenging conditions and offshore cruising.
- Speedy Cruises – Can reach speeds of up to 30 knots in calm waters.
- Customisation – Can be tailored to individual preferences for various purposes.
Are Hardys as Tough as They Say?
Absolutely! Hardys are as tough as they say. Hardy Motor Yachts have solidified their standing as robust and dependable vessels, especially when faced with demanding conditions and extensive voyages. These yachts have rightfully earned their reputation as stalwart and trustworthy companions on the open sea. Their construction is purpose-built to endure harsh weather conditions while ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey, regardless of the sea state. In calmer waters, Hardy yachts can achieve impressive speeds of up to 30 knots, setting them apart in the realm of all-weather vessels.
Cockwells Modern and Classic Boatbuilding proudly continues the tradition of building Hardy Motor Yachts. In fact, they’ve recently just delivered their inaugural all-new Hardy 50Ds. These yachts maintain their renowned durability and seaworthiness, and Davis Marine Brokerage is your local dealer for Australia and New Zealand.
If you believe this is the type of boat you’re seeking, please don’t hesitate to give us a call, and we’ll be delighted to assist you in finding the perfect Hardy Motor Yacht for you. If you want to know more, here’s information on the launching of Cockwell’s highly anticipated Hardy 50DS.
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