Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding will be going into the New Year with a burgeoning order book after securing sales for designs that are destined for locations as diverse as the Far East and the Norfolk Broads.
The Mylor-based business unveiled a new model in its popular Duchy Motor Launch series – the Duchy 21 – at the Southampton Boat Show. This was swiftly followed by keen interest in, and multiple requests to sea-trial, the flagship of the series, the Duchy 27.
And next year Cockwells plans to launch a high-end family cruiser, the Duchy 35, while plans for the Duchy 25, Duchy 45 and Duchy 60 are all on the drawing board.
The Cornish company has already secured planning permission to transform a higgledy collection of sheds at its Mylor Creek Boatyard at Tregatreath into a purpose-built, low environmental HQ. This will enable office staff and all the trades – from electricians and engineers to carpenters and paint-finishers – to work together in a single, solar-powered space and provide a seamless service as it looks to take on more commissions.
Cockwells has also invested in a three-axis CNC machine, part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund, to increase production efficiency.
“We take great pride in offering superyacht industry standard services to local boating enthusiasts at an affordable price,” said MD, Dave Cockwell. “Our investment in new facilities is enabling us to expand this side of the business as well as create more jobs for local people.”
