Falmouth boatbuilder Cockwells unveils new Duchy 45 in Southampton

A boat that has spent months taking shape in a Falmouth boatyard is about to make its first public appearance in front of a very different crowd. Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding is bringing its new Duchy 45 to the water at the Southampton International Boat Show (SIBS26), the world début of what the yard calls the most spacious vessel in its Duchy Motor Launches range to date. The show runs from next Friday, 18 September, to Sunday 27 September, on Southampton’s waterfront.

📷The Duchy 45 features exquisite wooden bifold doors and veneered wooden transom. Credit: Cockwells

A calm, spacious world aboard

Step aboard and the first thing that hits you is the room. An expansive saloon, a large cockpit aft and a super king size master cabin with en-suite heads and what Cockwells describes as inventive stowage give the Duchy 45 space to relax and to entertain, with a true sense of indoor and outdoor living running through the whole layout.

Double bifold doors open the saloon right out, and large windows fill the space with light and panoramic views over the water. Open the doors along with the additional sunroof and the boat connects properly with whatever is going on outside. Generously proportioned seating, upholstered in waterproof fabric, wraps around an opulent, veneered table, and an optional electric bimini adds shade when the midday sun gets too much.

📷The Duchy 45 is the most spacious vessel in the Duchy Motor Launches range. Credit: Cockwells

Life on the water

A transom walkthrough gate leads out to a full beam bathing platform. It can be lowered into the water hydraulically, whether that is for an easy swim or for lifting a tender out. Sunbathing pads can be added at the bow too, for anyone who would rather stretch out up front.

The galley is built for longer voyages rather than a single day out on the water. Four induction hobs, a combination oven, a double sink and a full-size fridge and freezer take care of cooking and dining, whatever the length of the trip.

📷The Duchy 45 delivers elegant cruising and dependable performance. Credit: Cockwells

Built to cruise, whatever the weather

Under the surface, the Duchy 45 is built from low maintenance composites on a new semi-displacement hull designed by naval architect Andrew Wolstenholme. Cockwells says the shape is as happy crossing open sea as it is picking a path through coastal waterways, whatever the weather.

Power comes from twin Volvo Penta IPS 600 pod drives, which integrate the engine, driveline and propellers into one system. Cockwells quotes a cruising speed of 25 knots and a top speed of 31 knots. Full joystick control, virtual anchoring and dynamic positioning are built in for precise manoeuvrability, an optional passerelle makes stern-to mooring easier, and a bow thruster, with an optional Seakeeper gyrostabiliser, adds stability at anchor or out in open water.

Make it yours

“Our new Duchy 45 blends intelligent design and outstanding performance with the superior build quality of the Duchy Motor Launches brand to elevate your on-the-water lifestyle to new heights,” said Henry Ward, Cockwells’ Head of Design and Sales. “We look forward to working with you to customise your Duchy 45 to create a craft that is uniquely yours, in the knowledge that all optional extras have been carefully considered to optimise your maritime experience.”

Layout is one of the bigger choices. Henry explained that buyers can go for a twin cabin arrangement with a fully equipped galley down, or a third cabin below with the galley adjoining the social saloon, depending on how much accommodation and personal space the boat needs for everyone aboard. A flybridge, with its own exterior helm and cockpit seating, can also be added for a further outdoor spot to take in the view.

📷The launch of the all-new Duchy 45. Credit: Cockwells

See her at Southampton

Cockwells has been building boats for 30 years. The Duchy 45 joins the rest of the Duchy Motor Launches range, alongside Cockwells’ Hardy Motor Yachts and its bespoke superyacht tenders.

Henry said the team is looking forward to welcoming prospective buyers to Stand M111 at SIBS26, “to showcase just how special the Duchy 45 is and discuss your unique specifications.”

📷The Duchy 45 at sunrise. Credit: Cockwells