Cockwells’ Hardy 45 European Highly Commended at Motor Boat Awards 2026

Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding has been awarded Highly Commended for its Hardy 45 European at the Motor Boat Awards 2026, hosted by Motor Boat & Yachting.

The Hardy 45 European was nominated in the Passagemakers category and recognised during an awards ceremony held at Hotel Kö59.

Recognition for the Hardy 45 European

The Hardy 45 European is the latest model in Cockwells’ range of Hardy Motor Yachts. It is designed to perform across a wide range of marine environments, from inland waterways to offshore cruising at speeds of up to 28 knots.

Built on the classic Hardy 42 hull, which is well known for its seakeeping ability, the Hardy 45 European combines the established strength of the Hardy range with modern comforts and technologies expected of a contemporary motor yacht.

📷The Hardy 45 European was awarded Highly Commended in the Passagemakers category at the Motor Boat Awards 2026 - Credit Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding

Designed for Comfort and Long Journeys

The layout includes an expansive aft deck helm, a luxurious saloon and galley, a full beam owner’s stateroom, an aft cabin, a comfortable double forward guest cabin, a stylish saloon and separate living quarters. The design is intended to provide practical, ergonomically designed personal space for everyone on board, whether cruising rivers and canals or undertaking longer ocean passages.

Judged After Extensive Sea Trials

All vessels shortlisted for the Motor Boat Awards 2026 underwent detailed sea trials carried out by Motor Boat & Yachting’s expert team. Boats were assessed on design, ability and value for money within their respective markets.

The judges highlighted the quality of the Hardy 45 European’s design and build, noting its suitability for both ocean crossings and inland cruising.

📷Motorboat awards 2026 Dusseldorf - Credit Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding

Awards Night in Düsseldorf

The ceremony took place during boot Düsseldorf, the world’s largest yacht and watersports show. The event attracts around 200,000 visitors from 110 countries, with more than 1,500 exhibitors from 67 nations across 16 exhibition halls.

Attending the ceremony to accept the accolade were Cockwells’ Founder and Sales & Technical Director Dave Cockwell, Marketing Director Jo Cockwell, Design Director Henry Ward and Project Management Team Assistant Clara Zoellner.

Dave said:

“We are proud to have been shortlisted amongst some of the top motorboat brands in the global marine industry, and to be recognised by our peers.”

He added:

“We were also delighted to return to boot Düsseldorf following our debut last year to explore new markets, extend our reach and exhibit our acclaimed Duchy 35, which was crowned winner of the Wheelhouse and Cockpit Cruisers category at the Motor Boat Awards 2018.

“This year’s event was a success for us, with plenty of leads generated, and it is clear that our brand of Duchy Motor Launches has begun to be recognised across Europe and the wider world!”

For more information about Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding, visit the Cockwells website.

📷The Cockwells team received the award at a grand ceremony in Dusseldorf - Credit Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding