Eight bells

With the greatest sadness, we share the passing of Blanche Cook, Financial Director and part-owner of Yachting Developments, wife of Ian and mother of Bianca and Paige. Blanche passed peacefully on 28 March 2019 after a brave battle with cancer.

Blanche was an integral member of the Yachting Developments family. Owner, mentor, mother-figure and friend, her larger-than-life presence pervaded the entire yard. Born and raised in Auckland, New Zealand, Blanche worked side by side with Ian to build Yachting Developments into an internationally respected and award-winning operation. She was heavily involved in New Zealand’s marine community, serving as Vice Chairperson of the NZ Marine export group, supporting the yard’s busy apprenticeship scheme and providing her support to a wide range of yachting causes, particularly the rescue and restoration of numerous classic yachts.

Blanche was a passionate supporter of all the Yachting Developments team, and was so proud of all projects completed by the yard. Together, Blanche and Ian led the Yachting Developments team to build, refit and restore a roll call of beautiful yachts.

Blanche will be deeply missed by her family, friends and all the Yachting Developments team, as well as all her connections in the marine industry.