Cockwells Hardy 42 Hybrid Review (2021 Edition) by Aquaholic

On Deck

The Hardy 42 Hybrid was built for a specific purpose: to cross the Channel, cruise the Rhine, travel down to the Mediterranean, and return through the French Canal system. To meet the owner's brief, several changes were made to the exterior.

The top structure is hinged lower than standard, allowing the height to be reduced under 3.5 metres (11.5 feet) for canal cruising. The screens have knurled knobs so they can fold down, and the entire console can flip through 180 degrees and drop once the seats are removed, making it the highest fixed point.

The flybridge has seating along both sides, a central console, and twin helm seats. Solar panels on the roof keep the batteries topped up when the boat is unattended. The deck layout keeps a ‘little ship’ feel with raised bulwarks, high rails, proper bollards alongside cleats, and a purposeful look.

New aft doors provide direct access to the aft cabin, improving flow compared to the earlier Hardy 42s that relied only on side doors. A life raft is stored on the aft deck. The Hardy 42 remains known for being seaworthy, practical, and manageable, with these features enhanced for long-distance cruising.

Synthetic teak decking runs through the interior to match the practical exterior. In the saloon, a telescopic leg fitted to the table allows it to drop down, turning the space into a relaxed lounge area or an occasional berth.

Storage fills the saloon, with cupboards along the sides and hidden compartments. A TV drops down from overhead rather than being mounted inside cabinetry, saving space. Another fridge is fitted for drinks, and a coffee area sits nearby.

The galley, located a few steps down, is fully electric. Twin sinks, storage for crockery, and further storage compartments are fitted throughout.

Opposite the galley is a utility area with a washing machine, fridge, freezer, and additional storage.

Owner's Cabin

The owner’s suite is positioned at the stern. It is large and private, spanning the width of the hull. Windows on either side bring in plenty of natural light and air. Storage space is generous, with hanging lockers and shelving options available.

The owner of this Hardy 42 chose a hanging locker in the cabin instead of a recessed dressing area or a built-in TV - a reminder of the customisation options available from Cockwells.

An ensuite bathroom serves the owner’s suite, with a dedicated shower area off the main space.

Guest Accommodation

The guest cabin sits forward of the galley and utility area. It features twin berths and plenty of storage, including shelving and hanging space, designed for long periods aboard. A hatch overhead provides natural light.

The forward cabin connects directly to the day heads through a second door, creating an en suite arrangement at night if required. The day heads are fitted with a separate shower compartment and a rotating shower screen.

The Hardy 42 Hybrid’s standout feature is the hybrid propulsion system.

An Empire Bus system controls all the boat’s electrical systems and can be accessed remotely via an app. This enables remote monitoring of bilge pumps, as well as remote switching on of systems like fridges and air conditioning. The propulsion setup features two engines: a single Yamaha 440hp diesel and an electric motor. The diesel engine delivers a top speed of around 16 knots and cruises comfortably between 8-12 knots, offering a range of about 600 nautical miles.

The electric system is designed for inland cruising at around 4-4.5 knots. It runs for approximately 3-3.5 hours. Once battery charge falls to 20%, the diesel generator automatically starts. It can either run the electric motor directly or recharge the batteries. Recharging the battery banks to 100% takes around 45 minutes. This arrangement enables several hours of silent, emission-free cruising inland, with quick turnaround times for recharging. Offshore cruising switches to diesel power, ideal for longer distances.

Battery banks, finished in turquoise, form a 48-volt system that also powers the 48-volt balanced stone thrusters. These thrusters deliver impressive manoeuvrability. The electric motor connects to the shaft through a belt system and electric clutch, which prevents unnecessary spinning when not in use.

The diesel-powered generator can either run the electric motor directly, much like a hybrid car, or recharge the batteries, giving flexibility and redundancy.

Hardy built the 42 Hybrid for a serious European adventure. From the folding structure to the clever hybrid drive, every detail matches the demands of long-distance cruising.

The hybrid system makes inland passages silent and relaxed, while the single diesel engine steps in for faster offshore runs. Solar panels, practical detailing, and careful use of space throughout the boat create a setup that feels ready for anything.

Inside, the focus stays on liveaboard comfort. Storage is plentiful, materials are hardwearing but smart, and the layout feels easy to move around - crucial when living aboard for months at a time.

Cockwells’ custom approach is a clear strength here. Owners can adapt the Hardy 42 Hybrid to their needs, whether that's more storage, a different cabin arrangement, or a personal choice of finishes.

Overall, the Hardy 42 Hybrid offers a quiet, capable, and thoughtful solution for serious cruising. Built with a belt-and-braces attitude and a clear eye on practical needs, it sets a strong course for Hardy’s future.