13 March 2017
Ed Dubois, the founder of Dubois Naval Architects, passed away in March 2016 at the age of 63 from cancer. After his death, Senior Designer Peter Bolke was appointed Managing Director of the company.
The remaining assets of the UK-based company – including its name, drawings and designs, along with its works in progress – were auctioned off by Marriott & Co. auction house on 28 February, with all lots exceeding their reserve and the auction “exceeding expectations”, it has been reported.
The most significant work in progress of the company was a 58-metre sloop currently under construction at Royal Huisman shipyard in Holland. Due for delivery later this year, the yacht was initially known by project name “The Beast” but has since been named “Ngoni” (pictured above, credit Royal Huisman); it has a striking vertical bow and was designed as a high-performance racing cruiser.
The buyer of the project is now responsible for completing what would have been Dubois Naval Architects’ role before delivery, including overseeing the launch, sea trials and stability tests. In return, the buyer will receive the final payment due from the project’s owner.
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