Hi Nick and RR fan base, I would like to give a slightly different perspective of the HR400 and share with you why our sailing family thinks it is a great fit for our needs and address Nicks primary concerns as well as couple of his video comments. To start, I want to thank Nick and Terysa for giving us ideas over the years that we occasionally used Including our own version of the RR scoring rubric to assess the boats we were interested in during our most recent purchase. THANK YOU RR. To Nick’s 2 big concerns re the HR400 - First, the teak deck - I could not agree more. We had taken HR off our list for this exact reason but when we learned that this and the HR340 could be ordered without teak decks we added them back on, and as Nick mentioned there is now an option for synthetic teak . The funny thing is, their molded in non-skid is amazing and will be easy to clean. Secondly, Nick asks fairly - who is this boat designed for? Us … We were looking for a long coastal cruiser; with quality construction; fun to sail; and could potentially safely cross a bigger body of water. Think the Baltic, PNW Puget Sound, Alaska and maybe Mexico. But, to be clear, 99% of the time above we sail above 45 degrees north. There will be 2 of us cruising 3-4 months at a time(max) but not likely a whole lot longer. We considered several other very nice boats in 35 to 40’ range and this boat won based on: how well the newer HR designs sail (on all points of sail - not just DDW in the trades), the up front relationship with HR, and quality construction. Again Nick fairly points out that (dead down wind) DDW in the trades this boat may have compromises. I don’t know this, I have not sailed in in the trades winds but have in plenty of lumpy seas off the PNW coast. Can the boat safely do it? Yes. Wide flat aft sections, twin rudders, twin helms: I absolutely love this setup, as it makes a big boat feel responsive, locked in, and simply fun to sail. Clearly this is an ongoing water cooler debate amongst sailors and will not be settled here - if this setup is not for you I get it - different strokes for different folks. Now to address Nicks smaller points that he makes in the video - The Shower- Nick mentions that he prefers a separate shower - So do I - the base boat option has a separate shower with a really nice head in the starboard rear quarter. It’s a great layout and we love an aft head (with separate shower) - its available. V berth size - Nick points out the V berth of the reviewed model appears smallish - again the base model has a bigger nicely sized V berth just not the option Nick reviewed. Starboard settee vs lounge chairs - OK true disagreement here, as I hate the lounge chairs - we went with the standard settee because it will make an excellent sea berth. Really Nick? Lounge chairs are for drinking cognac Beers on me any time. OK - thanks for providing a space to respectfully make a few counter points to Nick’s - Kind regards to all - SV Viento.
Hi Nick and SV Viento. As an HR owner I have to agree with Nick and Viento. I thought you both made very good points in the video and comments section. Although I wanted to dislike where the video was going, I have come to the same conclusion myself over the last few years about some of the latest HR designs. Well done good reviews. 👍
I appreciate your return of sailor experience on this boat. This help me to increasse my non experienced sailor knowledge for my futur sailing project because I plan to buy a second hand Hallberg Rassy.
Scolding the boat entirely because of it's sailing performance, and not even trying to sail it seems a bit disingenuous. In fact, I would argue one can't make a review without sailing it and having lived in it. It's just speculation otherwise. One can make a showcase of the boat, and point out potential issues one might see with hull-shape for example. But please leave the conclusions for someone who actually have sailed it. Also, as for who it is for, it is for example perfect for the Swedish archipelagos. It can sail to wherever, but it is primarily meant to exist for living in it. And in the Swedish and Finnish Archipelago, one usually travels between remote islands. Only needing to stop at ports to fill up on food and perhaps fuel. So in that case living space and endurance is what one wants. The Sacndinavian customers probably wont use dishwashers at it uses to much water and power, but it's always good as an option. Washingmachine might be useful for a family on a long cruise who stops at port every few days. In short, I think HRs boats are perfect for families or groups of people who enjoy cruising and living in the boat. If the primary use-case us off-shore then there might be other options that are better
Yes, this boat is not intended for the tropics or blue water but holiday/weekend coastal sailing in the north. The twin wheels make it easier to dock in ports, however if something happens both rudders cease to function. If I'd circumnavigate I'd get either a Kraken 50, Amel 50 or the Garcia aluminium cat or some Dutch custom in aluminium.
Of all the reviews I've heard and listened to, this is by far the most practical and insightful presentation of a "coastal cruiser". I appreciated your candidness as well as your justification of your opinions. Your thoughts are very plainly expressed and substantiated by a significant amount of experience. Please, let's hear the same approach to all your reviews. Well done and all the best!
Nick thank you for sharing, and thank you for picking up and running with Reviewing the Mono Hull boat scene. I am looking forward to future installments.
Good review but the videography was more into showing detailing and not the whole boat. Couldn't feel it as everything was zoomed in. Try taking wide angle normal shots.
I'm conflicted. As a mostly armchair sailor I suppose I have no right to to enter this discussion... but.... I would like to ask a few questions. First, what made the so called "blue water cruiser" the gold standard of all sail boats and why? Is there something different to "blue" water than the stuff you get in the North Sea? Isn't cruising round the Caribbean or the Med just "coastal cruising" around somebody else's coast? Is there a lot more danger when there are 100 m below the keel than when there is 10? Has a Beneteau or similar ever sailed across the Atlantic or are they always shipped by container to boat shows etc. since they can't possibly sail out of sight of land? What I am really trying to get at is, aren't you starting to look at everything through your own specific lens. Your expression of honest conviction does you credit but I think you are in danger of starting to judge every boat, based on your idea of what the perfect vessel is. And if that is the case perhaps we should all be buying replicas of Tally Ho which I have deemed the best boat ever built. Perhaps HR are just responding to what the buying public are telling them they want. I do agree with Nick that the boating world needs to take a long hard look at their footprint re the environment and teak decks is a good place to start.
It might have been a good move to ask HR to do an intro to describe the market positioning of this yacht. The hull is the same as the existing 40c and it's that boat that has the single wheel, mainsheet at the end of the boom, optional hard top, differing berth arrangements etc. In other words the more traditional HR. It seems smart to me to have two different models utilising the same hull, particularly at the smaller end of the range where profits are tighter, they're simply broadening its appeal for those who aren't necessarily setting off on extended cruises.
Dis you have a bad day when you did this? Having sailed in Scandinavian waters for 50 years+, I can say that the solidity of an HR400 would be fantastic to have in any kind of Nordic sailing season, or year-round sailing for that matter. Poor in down-wind conditions, you say? Well long down-wind passages don't occur that often. The size is pretty much perfect for Scandinavian archipelagos and ports, with respect to length, beam, draft and mast height. Twin wheels make it tons easier to enter/exit the cockpit when moored or in a berth stern to. Who would buy such a boat, you ask? The northern European boating market is pretty substantial, and this has been the home waters and home market for HR for decades. They probably understand it and the competition better than most. After all, it is a select few who are privileged to go blue water cruising. Who needs a dishwasher, you ask? Well - it is a luxury yacht. If you have the money, why not? I mean, who needs a Rolls Royce or a Maserati?
The honesty makes me smile a LOT!! Good for you! You show all of the astounding and outstanding points of the fabled Hallberg-Rassy, yet you bring up the most important points for which the cruising folks look. All in all? Stunning. However, it is the sailboat version of a car show garage princess, which never is driven and is kept looking fabulous.
Very good points! I live in Finland and I have sailed in the archipelago. I can tell you that there are a lot of people who buy these kind of boats. It's a shame that they might just sail the Baltic sea but they do have the money for it. This feels to me like a boat to someone who has the money for it and wants to show it off. Like having a Ferrari and being able to drive just 120kph. But in conclusion very good review and I agree with you that teak shouldn't be a thing anymore.
A genuine review. That’s excellent. Nothing worse than listening to someone paying homage to a boat and boat builder, with ulterior motives. Whatever that might be. Adverts nothing more nor less. This review is honest and understandable, now I can give it some genuine thought. Thank you.
Great review .. also a huge Hallberg Rassy fan . Funny how painful it seemed for you to have to find fault with an HR but at least as always you are genuine with your critiques. Nick you have a voice for narration & documentaries!
Right or Wrong Nick. Nobody can accuse you of pulling your punches and that is so refreshing, I wonder if you're still on their Christmas card list ? Stay Safe & Fair Winds !!
How can you provide a meaningful review of a boat without actually sailing it? Kind of like reviewing a car by walking around and kicking the tires and sitting in it, but never taking it out for a test drive. Please come back when you have something more useful to share.
You don’t need to sail a boat to know if the layout is not to your liking; you don’t need to sail it to know if the rig design (eg spreaders) is not to your liking; you don’t need to sail it to know if its aesthetic is not to your liking, or if it’s fair value. You don’t need to sleep with a woman to know if you should marry her.
Let's see, what were your critics of Hallberg Rassy; DUAL HELM? wow, a dishwasher, a generator etc? you are critical of their option list? you don't want it, don't order it, others may require it (for many obvious reasons) you don't want a dual helm, go for a CC. You don't want a wooden deck, don't order it. So, I don't understand, why all that negativity against an excellent, well built boat? Now, lets just go back, you used to sail a mono hull, then you were after your (best) in the Catamaran industry, you attacked all the cats (from Outremer, Privilege, Balance ect ect - and with some arrangements, and the use of subjective reviews (like value for money?) you convinced your viewers to vote for the cat of your choice - in this case (Seawind). Now you start the same in the Mono hull? why, you decided probably a Catamaran is not the boat that you wish to sail? I think the viewers deserve an explanation. Clearly, RUclipsrs are starting to form strong opinions and therefore, the viewers demand integrity, transparency and professionalism - not (Value for Money) or wooden Deck, or Dual Helms - Thank you.
Mate, chill. We’re just doing a boat tour and giving our honest thoughts. There’s no hidden agenda. We did not ‘attack’ anything, we loved Balance, Privilege and Outremer so not quite sure what you’re talking about. If you want a boat tour with no commentary at all, then you’re welcome to head to the boat shows with a camera and film them yourself.
I believe the problem is what manufacturers think they have to put into a boat because the market expects certain things in a boat. Now when I say the market the problem as I see it the market in my opinion has become a group of people who think anyone can just set off and sail around anywhere in the world and take their "apartment" with them. Where I live in Australia I can see a change in who is boating. Real boating knowledge , correct terminology are going out the window. I am sure you know exactly what I mean Nick.
I'm totally with you on the departure of these traditionally very well respected boat builders who have transitioned away from their roots and moved closer to what the fantastic plastics are producing like Beneteau, Jeanneau, and Bavaria. There's really not that many boat builders left who are producing true blue water boats anymore. Even Oyster has transitioned to the wide beam aft and twin rudder design. Right now you have some very traditional, very small volume boat builders like Pacific Seacraft to buy from and one new comer to the market who prioritizes sailing quality, safety and comfort over boat show aesthetics, and that's Kraken. It's really sad to me that the monohull market has devolved into this, but I suppose that's what these new boat buyers want,...or maybe they don't and they just don't realize it yet.
@@sailingrubyrose Maybe they need to follow the market. Porsche started making SUV's and everyone howled with anger, but it kept the company solvent and they still produce great sports cars. I'm sure HR will keep producing their fabulous ocean going boats
Looks like it's meant to be a high end coastal cruiser, not a blue water cruiser. As a coastal cruiser meets my needs, I would definitely not turn this out out of my slip.
I completely agree. I can see the baltic sea marinas being full of these from people with money who sail 4 weeks a year on them. Why should HR restrict themselves to only catering to the hard core world cruisers. My general impression is that we see in boating a trend similar to what we have seen in cars. 99% of SUVs never leave the tarmac - but you COULD. Most of these will never make a long passage - but they could.
why does it have to be a bluewater cruiser?, there are other ways to go sailing. You seem to be stuck with blue water cruise? As you said thats what "real sailors" do.
Agreed 100% about Teak (loved reviving and looking looking after Teak on secondhand boats I've had, though loathe varnish as it seems to seal in and kill timber, then it's a pita to redo. Thatvreally doesn't seem to be a boat to enjoy in the tropics either, where large aft cockpits , bathing platform and shading bimini sun shelters and downpour shelters for that matter, really come into their own. Me, I need a drop down transom bating platform just to get on and off the boat, and twin wheels means a gap you can walk through, to get to the companionway, which for me, has to be gentle sloping and about 4 steps with good handholds, including below to go forward and aft. Centre Cockpits ? Forget them, normally lots of steep steps to go to and from below. Me, I'm pissed off at the painfully shin shining on the way up, and landing on the base of of my spine on steps on my way down, because, sod's law the boat moves just right to catch you going up or down. I'm not a Sailboat Racer, was mildly interested in it once, then Fastnet, and I've been 100% Cruiser ever since have done to almost death, the classic so called Blue Water boats and I'm no longer even interested in considering one any longer. What is the Point ? Cruisers, according to stats, spend around 70% +/- at Anchor right ? If it's Beaufort Force 6 - a Yacht Gale that's called- even Amel, HE'S or whatever owners with any sense Run as fast as they can to get out of the way of it.Thats how it's always been, and that's how it still is, ain't that right? So for a Sensible Cruiser wanting to get to nice anchorages in nice places with nice weather, perhaps it's past time we used the yardstick of only sailing at 80% of what Sails, rigging, etc can take , to start redefining what a Blue Water Cruiser really is, because bluntly, there's a pretty large selection of Rear Cockpit Production Boats that every day, thousands of them are in use, confirming that they're up to the job.
Admittedly I have a soft spot for HR since my wife is Swedish and the factory in Ellös is only a few miles from her parents home. We strongly consider the new 50 and toured the factory, it’s sort of like a work of art and the quality is top notch…but it seems like you are stepping back in time when you get aboard. I wanted to love it, but in the end, there’s just no comparison once you spend some time aboard a performance oriented catamaran.
Ahhh yes. We had shortlisted HR when we were looking for a replacement for RR, but once you start to consider catamarans it’s hard to go back…. (And Nick flat out refused because of the teak anyway!)
Agree on deck. I thought twin helms made for easier on/off in Med type moorings. Inside, stunning, but as live aboard for this 192cm, no. Open up the forward cabin area. Move dunny/shower to rear if required or reduce lounge on one side. Remove on rear birth for storage and yes starting to come close on that aspect.
Correct, as of a few weeks ago, and we filmed this several months ago. Glad to see they agree the teak isn’t a good choice and are giving customers a more sustainable option.
Great video! I think the 400 is more for Nordic/ Canadian / High lat sailing in comfort (out side of arctic circle) rather then trade wind sailing, reviews of the 40c with a "similar" hull said it performed well, maybe you can ask HR for a sail test? :D Fully agree with teak deck... time to move on.
Different strokes for different folks. Some (most) people buy Range Rovers and never use them for their true purpose. Similarly, some wealthy people will buy the HR brand and use it for a few weeks of the year. Good for them. There is a market for their high end needs.
I have to agree with you about this finely made boat. Nice to look at but too many deficiencies to being practical. The main Master suite with that small bed just is not workable (6'4" of height) to me.
I appreciate the thoughtful review. The ending was fantastic. I was also uncomfortable with the extraordinarily wide transom of the 40 and the 400. I ordered the 44 because I felt they kept more traditional lines with this first iteration and didn’t go overboard on that rear end. In addition, the 44 has a much more favorable sail area to displacement ratio in my mind and seems quite sturdy. I plan on sailing her back to the states from Sweden 2024 so we’ll see how she handles herself downwind. Keep up the good work! I really enjoy your channel.
Demand drives design in general. Maybe the market for people that can buy a boat and coastal sail, or Caribbean sail, has grown much larger over the years, compared to blue water cruisers. Very few people can sail for months at a time, but plenty of people can coastal sail, or inland sail in NA/Med. Perhaps we're in a time in history were people are prosperous enough, and the product exists at a price they can afford, that has made something that has traditionally been for the wealthy accessible. HR is probably selling on it's name, and probably hasn't figured out how to make it work. Cayenne saved Porsche, and Lambo has an SUV.... do you think those companies made a mistake? IMHO it's the lack of easily accessible knowledge or reviews to help identify what boat to buy for whatever sailing you want to do. And..the market seems to be exploding with performance cats as the blue water option (at a higher price point) so what's a legacy monohull company to do?
I love analysis and honesty. I'm curious to how the bulkheads are attached to the hull in the '22 Rassy. Are they fiberglassed in, or are they put in with putty?
At the last of our yearly pilgrimage to Dusseldorf Boat Show (just pre-pandemic) I told my wife: "Contrary to today's norm, Hallberg-Rassy manages to build boats that look smaller on the inside than from the outside". Ratio tends to only get better starting from the high 40ft. 1. 400 is for Nordic countries only. 2. Transom issue solved. See point 1. - Not much trade/downwind sailing, so vertical transom irrelevant. 3. Teak deck is just because you can afford the price and you want to show it. That being said, they are fabulously built and drop-dead beautiful boats that will still be gorgeous 50 years from now. (PS: all their over 50ft boats are stratospherically sublime for world cruising)
Who is the commentator that is all-knowing😂. Every boat shoult have white non-slip, how can he say this? I prefer teak. Flat transom= roll says the expert hull designer?
I would love to own a Hallberg Rassey 400 sailboat ⛵ suited for the extreme heat and humidity of the tropics. Of all of the sailboats I have looked at this one is the most beautiful with the best options at the most reasonable price. There are several others similar but they aren't as well outfitted, and I wouldn't trust them with my family for world travel. Absolutely agree with the bed, it's pretty tiny, needs at least a queen size, however it does have 2 heads. So I guess the bed is the place they made up space. Then again, there are 3 blueprints, at least one of them has a larger bed option.
Thanks for the review, Nick! Disclaimer, I have a HR342 I sail in the great lakes. I would buy a HR 400 if I was going to buy a new 40 ft boat. It is basically a bigger version of my current boat with a wider transom and twin rudders. I like the aft cockpit to offer easier movement and more lounging space. The other main benefit of the twin wheels is that you can walk through the cockpit to get behind either wheel or get to the transom without climbing around a center wheel. You tend to steer from the side of the cockpit. It is not a racing thing, it is for visibilty around the boat and other crew in the cockpit. My 342 has a center wheel and you can reach it from either side, but this is a wider boat, so you'd have a tougher time reaching a center wheel. I like the center cockpit model, the large aft cabin looks amazing, but having to choose between the two, I'd rather cozy into an aft berth and be able to spread out in the cockpit with guests. This "modern hull shape" is obviously controversial but it seems to be successful. It should be faster and nice and stable, even if less comfortable motion is generated. I have not done ocean passages, but I would take my current boat, or a 400 out on a world adventure if I had the ability to do so.
Windpipe, Your 342 is a much different boat than the new 400. You have a great yacht but, the new 340 has more in common with the 400 than the 342. Twin rudders, wider aft section and a more plumb bow, these are just some of the features of the new breed of HR's. I would take a 342,340 or the 400 or 40c to replace my beneteau.
I agree with your perspective. However, I personally hate small center cockpits. I'm willing to sacrifice some safety while on passage for the marked increase in enjoyment while at anchor. This is an acceptable trade off for me.
I actually agree. This was one reason we were so happy with Ruby Rose, which was a similar design. Huge cockpit (bigger than a 55ft centre cockpit that our friends owned) and lovely aft cabin. Perfect at anchor. Not so perfect while sailing especially offshore. Everything is a compromise.
Defenatly a costal cruiser Very beautiful and very expensive costal crises. Great review. It's difficult To find someone pointing the negatives on a boat review. Ir you can, please review the Sirius yacht. O would love To know your opinion on a Sirius 35 or 40
Nick did do a quick review of their Sirius boats back in 2019ish at the Düsseldorf show. Very similar to this review he was critical as boats did not seem as good as his previous.
IMO the HR 400, like all contemporary HRs are not meant to be used as liveaboard or true bluewater vessels. They are luxury 'marina hoppers' for wealthy retirees in their 60s and 70s. Hence the need for 'push-button sailing'. I am sure HR did their homework and realized that there's simply not enough money to be made with boats built for people who really want to go far and stay away for a long time. Taking this boat for a long spin is like using a Range Rover for serious offroading ... you could do it, but it does not really make sense. Fortunately, there are alternatives for those who need a vessel for exploring and sailing afar ... Kraken, Pegasus, Boréal, and Alubat might come to mind ...
So refreshing to hear an honest boat review! Kudos for your willingness to speak about a boat's flaws. HR is definitely following the popular, contemporary sailboat designs, which are a big 'turnoff' to me. Another negative aspect of the excessively wide stern is causing the bow to nosedive when heeled. I spoke with the designer of the Passport 545 at the Annapolis show last year, and he said that this design increases the chances of pitchpoling. He was also against twin wheels. Excessively beamy sailboats also get lower 'comfort index' numbers, though hardly anyone talks about that these days. I am also dubious of the dependence on 'pushbutton' sailing for an ocean going yacht. How reliable are these systems, ten, twenty, thirty, years 'down the road'? Seems that a forty foot sailboat shouldn't need this much gadgetry. I suppose that sailboat builders are trying to appeal to new buyers, which means that the boats I really like are a vanishing breed. Island Packet, Outbound, and Passport, and Rustler, are still producing beautiful boats.
If I buy a used boat that has teak decks, fine. I will say, if it's not the type of teak deck that was laid with glue and vac-bagged into place then I don't want it. If I see bungs where there are hundreds of screws holding the planks down I am either not buying that boat or I'm going to counter-offer for the deal of the century knowing that I have to scrape that teak off and possibly fix wet decks (and that is a metric s#!t-ton of work!)
Congratulations on what you two have done with your channel. It was well below average in polish and class before, and now it's well above average. That's an impressive transition to make and so few make it. So again I say congratulations, and job well done!
Nice review, and I do agree with you that the purpose of the design and model is unsure. Would be interesting to see your opening on the 40C that is seem to have a clearer purpose.
Geat comments regarding teak decks - simply not necesary any more and one area where the GRP hull industry can move to more environmentally appropriate materials.
Agree with this review. I do not understand why you would need three chart plotters in the cockpit of a 40 foot boat? Furthermore, that engine area is going to be a nightmare to service once you get a A/C and a water maker in there. Teak deck? Seriously I cannot imagine why you would want that extra work and expense. You didn’t show the deck storage, but from the the shape of the forward cabin I suspect the forward locker is quite small. Great northern latitudes coastal cruiser. Would not be crossing oceans or sailing in the tropics in it.
I hope you rraliu that not everyone has such dislike of colder weather or time to make long passages. They still can sail in areas where seaworthiness is highly needed. It could also be possible that one brand can serve new different customer segments and doesn't have to limit itself to just theirs traditional segment. Customers, and people general, don't make very rational decision when they're after some experiences. It is not for the seller or manufacturer to dictate what customers want to buy. Such attitude isn't a winning one in any business.
I think all Rassy boats you don't have a choice it is only built with teak decks.Most people don't cruise the world so the wide stern is acceptable to get greater interior room.I have a Cabo Rico 38 and I agree with everything you said about this review.But the Rassy boats are built so well.
Many comments re HR teak decks. To be clear this and other models CAN be ordered WITHOUT teak. This is newish for HR and I’m not certain which models but I know for certain this model HR400 is absolutely available without teak. HR is now also offering a synthetic Teak option.
Using the word "chav" doesn't make you sound like you really come from a perspective of any actual knowledge, unless you are super clever. Let me enlighten you. Chav is meant to have its etymology from Chavvie (sp) which is what gypsies and romany people used to call their children. More recently it is used as derogation to mean something of low or low class. Now if you consider our new boat to be low class, then you clearly have not done your armchair research well enough. However if you are using "chav" in its original form, as the child of gypsies, then yeah, I kind of agree with you. I come from gypsy stock, can't ever seem to settle and this is our child
I agree with you about the teak as you only destroy forests to have teak plantations as for palm oil plantations, with the synthetic teak used today on the other hand you create a lot of micro plastic which enter the ocean from your deck, so a no go as well. The yacht itself might be good if you’re a day or weekend sailor but not for a live aboard. Live aboard I would chose the 44 or maximum the 50. Ciao Patrik
Purists sailors don’t spend the money that Rassy wants people to spend. There is a pretty big market for sailors who want to do a bit of blue water sailing but certainly don’t want to criss cross the Atlantic every year. Comfort sells for families and it’s not just about the sailing.
I think historically most buyers were Northern Europeans as that’s the cruising ground most HR’s best suited to. But this is definitely not the best option for the Bahamas
I haven’t watched all of your back catalogue so you may have covered this. I would love to hear your thoughts on what would be a good blue water 35 foot ish from the 70/80s I am counting on spending less than 40k including refit for a full time cruiser for two. Med and maybe Atlantic crossing.
There is no question about the quality of the Hallberg Rassy's but I can't find a way to like their design (cockpit and interior). The finishing quality is certainly amazing though. Totally agree about the teak deck.
HI- Great Review and thoughtful perspective. Question; you mentioned flat transom and roll - can you explain this in more detail - I'm genuinely curious.
2 years ago I visited the HR 440 and I came up with very similar conclusions like you, but additionally with 190 cm (not an abnormal scandinavian size) I felt incredibly cramped down below and not having enough headroom in the galley and the master cabin. Additionally the technical room was very nice, but no chance for me even the get myself through the door. All in all a great boat for the north sea but as a lifeaboard in lower latitudes not suitable. Just following on the keel design for the last 20 years and then it becomes obvious that circumnavigation is not their main focus in boat building anymore.
100% agreed. Went to the Annapolis boat show last year and it was amazing the number of monohulls with an "identity crisis." While the HR 400 I'm sure is more than capable of crossing oceans, the designers clearly tried to fit too many potential customer-types into one hull. It's like Porshe making an SUV. Just NO!
I think you have the answer; "Porsche sales with growth in the USA up by almost a quarter. China, the USA, and Germany were the largest market for Porsche in 2021. The top-selling Porsche models were the Macan, Cayenne, Taycan, and 911", note the first 2 are both SUVs. Market forces.
So with you on the teak.... I am the captain of a med based classic yacht and the time spent cleaning an item that heats the boat is pointless. .... but a must have on a classic. New build .... why bother.
I have a HR40 and I agree on your assessments of the 400. I don't like twin steering wheels and twin rudders. The latter made necessary because of the shape of the stern of the 400.
It is refreshing to hear an honest and balanced review of a boat. So rare in the world of yachts.
It's his honest review and his opinion. 👋
Hi Nick and RR fan base, I would like to give a slightly different perspective of the HR400 and share with you why our sailing family thinks it is a great fit for our needs and address Nicks primary concerns as well as couple of his video comments. To start, I want to thank Nick and Terysa for giving us ideas over the years that we occasionally used Including our own version of the RR scoring rubric to assess the boats we were interested in during our most recent purchase. THANK YOU RR.
To Nick’s 2 big concerns re the HR400 - First, the teak deck - I could not agree more. We had taken HR off our list for this exact reason but when we learned that this and the HR340 could be ordered without teak decks we added them back on, and as Nick mentioned there is now an option for synthetic teak . The funny thing is, their molded in non-skid is amazing and will be easy to clean. Secondly, Nick asks fairly - who is this boat designed for? Us … We were looking for a long coastal cruiser; with quality construction; fun to sail; and could potentially safely cross a bigger body of water. Think the Baltic, PNW Puget Sound, Alaska and maybe Mexico. But, to be clear, 99% of the time above we sail above 45 degrees north. There will be 2 of us cruising 3-4 months at a time(max) but not likely a whole lot longer. We considered several other very nice boats in 35 to 40’ range and this boat won based on: how well the newer HR designs sail (on all points of sail - not just DDW in the trades), the up front relationship with HR, and quality construction. Again Nick fairly points out that (dead down wind) DDW in the trades this boat may have compromises. I don’t know this, I have not sailed in in the trades winds but have in plenty of lumpy seas off the PNW coast. Can the boat safely do it? Yes. Wide flat aft sections, twin rudders, twin helms: I absolutely love this setup, as it makes a big boat feel responsive, locked in, and simply fun to sail. Clearly this is an ongoing water cooler debate amongst sailors and will not be settled here - if this setup is not for you I get it - different strokes for different folks.
Now to address Nicks smaller points that he makes in the video - The Shower- Nick mentions that he prefers a separate shower - So do I - the base boat option has a separate shower with a really nice head in the starboard rear quarter. It’s a great layout and we love an aft head (with separate shower) - its available. V berth size - Nick points out the V berth of the reviewed model appears smallish - again the base model has a bigger nicely sized V berth just not the option Nick reviewed. Starboard settee vs lounge chairs - OK true disagreement here, as I hate the lounge chairs - we went with the standard settee because it will make an excellent sea berth. Really Nick? Lounge chairs are for drinking cognac Beers on me any time.
OK - thanks for providing a space to respectfully make a few counter points to Nick’s - Kind regards to all - SV Viento.
There’s only one thing I love more than the boating community and that’s a respectful debate about boats. 👍👍
Hi Nick and SV Viento.
As an HR owner I have to agree with Nick and Viento. I thought you both made very good points in the video and comments section. Although I wanted to dislike where the video was going, I have come to the same conclusion myself over the last few years about some of the latest HR designs. Well done good reviews. 👍
I appreciate your return of sailor experience on this boat. This help me to increasse my non experienced sailor knowledge for my futur sailing project because I plan to buy a second hand Hallberg Rassy.
Scolding the boat entirely because of it's sailing performance, and not even trying to sail it seems a bit disingenuous.
In fact, I would argue one can't make a review without sailing it and having lived in it. It's just speculation otherwise.
One can make a showcase of the boat, and point out potential issues one might see with hull-shape for example. But please leave the conclusions for someone who actually have sailed it.
Also, as for who it is for, it is for example perfect for the Swedish archipelagos. It can sail to wherever, but it is primarily meant to exist for living in it. And in the Swedish and Finnish Archipelago, one usually travels between remote islands. Only needing to stop at ports to fill up on food and perhaps fuel. So in that case living space and endurance is what one wants.
The Sacndinavian customers probably wont use dishwashers at it uses to much water and power, but it's always good as an option. Washingmachine might be useful for a family on a long cruise who stops at port every few days.
In short, I think HRs boats are perfect for families or groups of people who enjoy cruising and living in the boat. If the primary use-case us off-shore then there might be other options that are better
Yes, this boat is not intended for the tropics or blue water but holiday/weekend coastal sailing in the north. The twin wheels make it easier to dock in ports, however if something happens both rudders cease to function. If I'd circumnavigate I'd get either a Kraken 50, Amel 50 or the Garcia aluminium cat or some Dutch custom in aluminium.
Of all the reviews I've heard and listened to, this is by far the most practical and insightful presentation of a "coastal cruiser". I appreciated your candidness as well as your justification of your opinions. Your thoughts are very plainly expressed and substantiated by a significant amount of experience. Please, let's hear the same approach to all your reviews. Well done and all the best!
Thank you so much. More reviews to come.
Nick thank you for sharing, and thank you for picking up and running with Reviewing the Mono Hull boat scene. I am looking forward to future installments.
Good review but the videography was more into showing detailing and not the whole boat. Couldn't feel it as everything was zoomed in. Try taking wide angle normal shots.
I'm conflicted. As a mostly armchair sailor I suppose I have no right to to enter this discussion... but.... I would like to ask a few questions.
First, what made the so called "blue water cruiser" the gold standard of all sail boats and why? Is there something different to "blue" water than the stuff you get in the North Sea? Isn't cruising round the Caribbean or the Med just "coastal cruising" around somebody else's coast? Is there a lot more danger when there are 100 m below the keel than when there is 10? Has a Beneteau or similar ever sailed across the Atlantic or are they always shipped by container to boat shows etc. since they can't possibly sail out of sight of land?
What I am really trying to get at is, aren't you starting to look at everything through your own specific lens. Your expression of honest conviction does you credit but I think you are in danger of starting to judge every boat, based on your idea of what the perfect vessel is. And if that is the case perhaps we should all be buying replicas of Tally Ho which I have deemed the best boat ever built.
Perhaps HR are just responding to what the buying public are telling them they want.
I do agree with Nick that the boating world needs to take a long hard look at their footprint re the environment and teak decks is a good place to start.
It might have been a good move to ask HR to do an intro to describe the market positioning of this yacht. The hull is the same as the existing 40c and it's that boat that has the single wheel, mainsheet at the end of the boom, optional hard top, differing berth arrangements etc. In other words the more traditional HR. It seems smart to me to have two different models utilising the same hull, particularly at the smaller end of the range where profits are tighter, they're simply broadening its appeal for those who aren't necessarily setting off on extended cruises.
Dis you have a bad day when you did this? Having sailed in Scandinavian waters for 50 years+, I can say that the solidity of an HR400 would be fantastic to have in any kind of Nordic sailing season, or year-round sailing for that matter. Poor in down-wind conditions, you say? Well long down-wind passages don't occur that often. The size is pretty much perfect for Scandinavian archipelagos and ports, with respect to length, beam, draft and mast height. Twin wheels make it tons easier to enter/exit the cockpit when moored or in a berth stern to. Who would buy such a boat, you ask? The northern European boating market is pretty substantial, and this has been the home waters and home market for HR for decades. They probably understand it and the competition better than most. After all, it is a select few who are privileged to go blue water cruising. Who needs a dishwasher, you ask? Well - it is a luxury yacht. If you have the money, why not? I mean, who needs a Rolls Royce or a Maserati?
Reviewing sail performance without ever having sailed the boat? Am I taking crazy pills? This is where RUclips sailing reviews are at?
Thank you for your honesty. The boat is beautiful but I agree, who is it for? And right on in the teak. Thank you!
Superior review. Please keep doing this for many years!
Okay then 😊
Appreciate the honesty and real world application. Why I subscribed a long time ago.
The honesty makes me smile a LOT!!
Good for you! You show all of the astounding and outstanding points of the fabled Hallberg-Rassy, yet you bring up the most important points for which the cruising folks look.
All in all? Stunning. However, it is the sailboat version of a car show garage princess, which never is driven and is kept looking fabulous.
Very good points! I live in Finland and I have sailed in the archipelago. I can tell you that there are a lot of people who buy these kind of boats. It's a shame that they might just sail the Baltic sea but they do have the money for it. This feels to me like a boat to someone who has the money for it and wants to show it off. Like having a Ferrari and being able to drive just 120kph. But in conclusion very good review and I agree with you that teak shouldn't be a thing anymore.
Twin wheels for 40’ monohull is for the birds, it takes up too much room in the cockpit.
A tiller stick is much more practical.
A genuine review. That’s excellent. Nothing worse than listening to someone paying homage to a boat and boat builder, with ulterior motives. Whatever that might be. Adverts nothing more nor less. This review is honest and understandable, now I can give it some genuine thought. Thank you.
Great review .. also a huge Hallberg Rassy fan . Funny how painful it seemed for you to have to find fault with an HR but at least as always you are genuine with your critiques. Nick you have a voice for narration & documentaries!
Right or Wrong Nick. Nobody can accuse you of pulling your punches and that is so refreshing, I wonder if you're still on their Christmas card list ? Stay Safe & Fair Winds !!
How can you provide a meaningful review of a boat without actually sailing it? Kind of like reviewing a car by walking around and kicking the tires and sitting in it, but never taking it out for a test drive. Please come back when you have something more useful to share.
Very well said.
You don’t need to sail a boat to know if the layout is not to your liking; you don’t need to sail it to know if the rig design (eg spreaders) is not to your liking; you don’t need to sail it to know if its aesthetic is not to your liking, or if it’s fair value. You don’t need to sleep with a woman to know if you should marry her.
Let's see, what were your critics of Hallberg Rassy; DUAL HELM? wow, a dishwasher, a generator etc? you are critical of their option list? you don't want it, don't order it, others may require it (for many obvious reasons) you don't want a dual helm, go for a CC. You don't want a wooden deck, don't order it. So, I don't understand, why all that negativity against an excellent, well built boat? Now, lets just go back, you used to sail a mono hull, then you were after your (best) in the Catamaran industry, you attacked all the cats (from Outremer, Privilege, Balance ect ect - and with some arrangements, and the use of subjective reviews (like value for money?) you convinced your viewers to vote for the cat of your choice - in this case (Seawind). Now you start the same in the Mono hull? why, you decided probably a Catamaran is not the boat that you wish to sail? I think the viewers deserve an explanation. Clearly, RUclipsrs are starting to form strong opinions and therefore, the viewers demand integrity, transparency and professionalism - not (Value for Money) or wooden Deck, or Dual Helms - Thank you.
Mate, chill. We’re just doing a boat tour and giving our honest thoughts. There’s no hidden agenda. We did not ‘attack’ anything, we loved Balance, Privilege and Outremer so not quite sure what you’re talking about. If you want a boat tour with no commentary at all, then you’re welcome to head to the boat shows with a camera and film them yourself.
I believe the problem is what manufacturers think they have to put into a boat because the market expects certain things in a boat. Now when I say the market the problem as I see it the market in my opinion has become a group of people who think anyone can just set off and sail around anywhere in the world and take their "apartment" with them. Where I live in Australia I can see a change in who is boating. Real boating knowledge , correct terminology are going out the window. I am sure you know exactly what I mean Nick.
I'm totally with you on the departure of these traditionally very well respected boat builders who have transitioned away from their roots and moved closer to what the fantastic plastics are producing like Beneteau, Jeanneau, and Bavaria. There's really not that many boat builders left who are producing true blue water boats anymore. Even Oyster has transitioned to the wide beam aft and twin rudder design. Right now you have some very traditional, very small volume boat builders like Pacific Seacraft to buy from and one new comer to the market who prioritizes sailing quality, safety and comfort over boat show aesthetics, and that's Kraken.
It's really sad to me that the monohull market has devolved into this, but I suppose that's what these new boat buyers want,...or maybe they don't and they just don't realize it yet.
Yeah agreed with everything you said.
@@sailingrubyrose Maybe they need to follow the market. Porsche started making SUV's and everyone howled with anger, but it kept the company solvent and they still produce great sports cars. I'm sure HR will keep producing their fabulous ocean going boats
Looks like it's meant to be a high end coastal cruiser, not a blue water cruiser. As a coastal cruiser meets my needs, I would definitely not turn this out out of my slip.
Love HR and you make some good points but I think it’s a gorgeous boat for coastal cruising with the option to do more.
No doubt it is a beautiful boat and very capable. But agree this is a coastal cruiser, not bluewater
I completely agree. I can see the baltic sea marinas being full of these from people with money who sail 4 weeks a year on them. Why should HR restrict themselves to only catering to the hard core world cruisers. My general impression is that we see in boating a trend similar to what we have seen in cars. 99% of SUVs never leave the tarmac - but you COULD. Most of these will never make a long passage - but they could.
why does it have to be a bluewater cruiser?, there are other ways to go sailing.
You seem to be stuck with blue water cruise? As you said thats what "real sailors" do.
Agreed 100% about Teak (loved reviving and looking looking after Teak on secondhand boats I've had, though loathe varnish as it seems to seal in and kill timber, then it's a pita to redo. Thatvreally doesn't seem to be a boat to enjoy in the tropics either, where large aft cockpits , bathing platform and shading bimini sun shelters and downpour shelters for that matter, really come into their own. Me, I need a drop down transom bating platform just to get on and off the boat, and twin wheels means a gap you can walk through, to get to the companionway, which for me, has to be gentle sloping and about 4 steps with good handholds, including below to go forward and aft. Centre Cockpits ? Forget them, normally lots of steep steps to go to and from below. Me, I'm pissed off at the painfully shin shining on the way up, and landing on the base of of my spine on steps on my way down, because, sod's law the boat moves just right to catch you going up or down. I'm not a Sailboat Racer, was mildly interested in it once, then Fastnet, and I've been 100% Cruiser ever since have done to almost death, the classic so called Blue Water boats and I'm no longer even interested in considering one any longer. What is the Point ? Cruisers, according to stats, spend around 70% +/- at Anchor right ? If it's Beaufort Force 6 - a Yacht Gale that's called- even Amel, HE'S or whatever owners with any sense Run as fast as they can to get out of the way of it.Thats how it's always been, and that's how it still is, ain't that right? So for a Sensible Cruiser wanting to get to nice anchorages in nice places with nice weather, perhaps it's past time we used the yardstick of only sailing at 80% of what Sails, rigging, etc can take , to start redefining what a Blue Water Cruiser really is, because bluntly, there's a pretty large selection of Rear Cockpit Production Boats that every day, thousands of them are in use, confirming that they're up to the job.
Honesty.... Thank you !
Admittedly I have a soft spot for HR since my wife is Swedish and the factory in Ellös is only a few miles from her parents home. We strongly consider the new 50 and toured the factory, it’s sort of like a work of art and the quality is top notch…but it seems like you are stepping back in time when you get aboard. I wanted to love it, but in the end, there’s just no comparison once you spend some time aboard a performance oriented catamaran.
Ahhh yes. We had shortlisted HR when we were looking for a replacement for RR, but once you start to consider catamarans it’s hard to go back…. (And Nick flat out refused because of the teak anyway!)
@@sailingrubyrose Yes, once you go to the dark side of catamarans there’s just no looking back!
Agree on deck.
I thought twin helms made for easier on/off in Med type moorings.
Inside, stunning, but as live aboard for this 192cm, no.
Open up the forward cabin area.
Move dunny/shower to rear if required or reduce lounge on one side. Remove on rear birth for storage and yes starting to come close on that aspect.
Seriously:
Just take HR's options on this boat regarding interior!
Yes, twin helms are for Med style mooring.
You don't have to have teak decks on HR you can specifiy artificial EcoDeck.
Correct, as of a few weeks ago, and we filmed this several months ago. Glad to see they agree the teak isn’t a good choice and are giving customers a more sustainable option.
You can also order without teak.
I will never own a boat with teak decks. I want to sail not clean, treat wood. It’s archaic and wasteful. Thanks for pointing this out. Great review.
This boat and all new HRs are available without teak. This boat in particular can be had with amazing non slip as well as Synthetic teak. Your choice.
I enjoyed your honest review.
Im a HR fan but prefer the older designs.....your candid honesty however is appreciated
We also love the older designs. I think that’s why we were so disappointed.
Great video! I think the 400 is more for Nordic/ Canadian / High lat sailing in comfort (out side of arctic circle) rather then trade wind sailing, reviews of the 40c with a "similar" hull said it performed well, maybe you can ask HR for a sail test? :D Fully agree with teak deck... time to move on.
Yes the 40c is a good alternative for those wanting a centre cockpit in a 40ft boat.
A sale test would be most interesting.
Different strokes for different folks. Some (most) people buy Range Rovers and never use them for their true purpose. Similarly, some wealthy people will buy the HR brand and use it for a few weeks of the year. Good for them. There is a market for their high end needs.
I have to agree with you about this finely made boat. Nice to look at but too many deficiencies to being practical. The main Master suite with that small bed just is not workable (6'4" of height) to me.
Thank you for your indept review. I do not agree on 'not ocean worthy'. There is a market for 'posh' brands such as HR.
Oh the boat is definitely ocean worthy. But it is not designed to cross oceans (IMHO)
Spirit Yachts is using a more sustainable wood for their visible deck planks. Less heat soak on sunny days than teak.
I appreciate the thoughtful review. The ending was fantastic. I was also uncomfortable with the extraordinarily wide transom of the 40 and the 400. I ordered the 44 because I felt they kept more traditional lines with this first iteration and didn’t go overboard on that rear end. In addition, the 44 has a much more favorable sail area to displacement ratio in my mind and seems quite sturdy. I plan on sailing her back to the states from Sweden 2024 so we’ll see how she handles herself downwind. Keep up the good work! I really enjoy your channel.
I look forward to watching a “sailing my HR 44 from Sweden back to the states-video” Good luck and safe journey.
Demand drives design in general. Maybe the market for people that can buy a boat and coastal sail, or Caribbean sail, has grown much larger over the years, compared to blue water cruisers. Very few people can sail for months at a time, but plenty of people can coastal sail, or inland sail in NA/Med. Perhaps we're in a time in history were people are prosperous enough, and the product exists at a price they can afford, that has made something that has traditionally been for the wealthy accessible. HR is probably selling on it's name, and probably hasn't figured out how to make it work. Cayenne saved Porsche, and Lambo has an SUV.... do you think those companies made a mistake? IMHO it's the lack of easily accessible knowledge or reviews to help identify what boat to buy for whatever sailing you want to do. And..the market seems to be exploding with performance cats as the blue water option (at a higher price point) so what's a legacy monohull company to do?
friend-what a unreal sharing,have agood day. )
I love analysis and honesty. I'm curious to how the bulkheads are attached to the hull in the '22 Rassy. Are they fiberglassed in, or are they put in with putty?
At the last of our yearly pilgrimage to Dusseldorf Boat Show (just pre-pandemic) I told my wife:
"Contrary to today's norm, Hallberg-Rassy manages to build boats that look smaller on the inside than from the outside".
Ratio tends to only get better starting from the high 40ft.
1. 400 is for Nordic countries only.
2. Transom issue solved. See point 1. - Not much trade/downwind sailing, so vertical transom irrelevant.
3. Teak deck is just because you can afford the price and you want to show it.
That being said, they are fabulously built and drop-dead beautiful boats that will still be gorgeous 50 years from now.
(PS: all their over 50ft boats are stratospherically sublime for world cruising)
Oh yeah. Review of the 57 coming out soon.
They have lost their blue water cred. These are now the playthings of the rich who want to play around the coast.
Who is the commentator that is all-knowing😂. Every boat shoult have white non-slip, how can he say this? I prefer teak. Flat transom= roll says the expert hull designer?
I would love to own a Hallberg Rassey 400 sailboat ⛵ suited for the extreme heat and humidity of the tropics. Of all of the sailboats I have looked at this one is the most beautiful with the best options at the most reasonable price. There are several others similar but they aren't as well outfitted, and I wouldn't trust them with my family for world travel. Absolutely agree with the bed, it's pretty tiny, needs at least a queen size, however it does have 2 heads. So I guess the bed is the place they made up space. Then again, there are 3 blueprints, at least one of them has a larger bed option.
Thanks for the review, Nick! Disclaimer, I have a HR342 I sail in the great lakes. I would buy a HR 400 if I was going to buy a new 40 ft boat. It is basically a bigger version of my current boat with a wider transom and twin rudders. I like the aft cockpit to offer easier movement and more lounging space. The other main benefit of the twin wheels is that you can walk through the cockpit to get behind either wheel or get to the transom without climbing around a center wheel. You tend to steer from the side of the cockpit. It is not a racing thing, it is for visibilty around the boat and other crew in the cockpit. My 342 has a center wheel and you can reach it from either side, but this is a wider boat, so you'd have a tougher time reaching a center wheel. I like the center cockpit model, the large aft cabin looks amazing, but having to choose between the two, I'd rather cozy into an aft berth and be able to spread out in the cockpit with guests. This "modern hull shape" is obviously controversial but it seems to be successful. It should be faster and nice and stable, even if less comfortable motion is generated. I have not done ocean passages, but I would take my current boat, or a 400 out on a world adventure if I had the ability to do so.
Windpipe, Your 342 is a much different boat than the new 400. You have a great yacht but, the new 340 has more in common with the 400 than the 342. Twin rudders, wider aft section and a more plumb bow, these are just some of the features of the new breed of HR's. I would take a 342,340 or the 400 or 40c to replace my beneteau.
Love, respect, and look forward to your honest opinions. Can't wait for your review of the 57'.
I agree with your perspective. However, I personally hate small center cockpits. I'm willing to sacrifice some safety while on passage for the marked increase in enjoyment while at anchor. This is an acceptable trade off for me.
I actually agree. This was one reason we were so happy with Ruby Rose, which was a similar design. Huge cockpit (bigger than a 55ft centre cockpit that our friends owned) and lovely aft cabin. Perfect at anchor. Not so perfect while sailing especially offshore. Everything is a compromise.
Defenatly a costal cruiser
Very beautiful and very expensive costal crises.
Great review. It's difficult To find someone pointing the negatives on a boat review.
Ir you can, please review the Sirius yacht. O would love To know your opinion on a Sirius 35 or 40
Nick did do a quick review of their Sirius boats back in 2019ish at the Düsseldorf show. Very similar to this review he was critical as boats did not seem as good as his previous.
IMO the HR 400, like all contemporary HRs are not meant to be used as liveaboard or true bluewater vessels. They are luxury 'marina hoppers' for wealthy retirees in their 60s and 70s. Hence the need for 'push-button sailing'. I am sure HR did their homework and realized that there's simply not enough money to be made with boats built for people who really want to go far and stay away for a long time. Taking this boat for a long spin is like using a Range Rover for serious offroading ... you could do it, but it does not really make sense. Fortunately, there are alternatives for those who need a vessel for exploring and sailing afar ... Kraken, Pegasus, Boréal, and Alubat might come to mind ...
Great Video! What modern 40ft boat would you consider a great bluewater cruiser boat?
Rustler 42
So refreshing to hear an honest boat review! Kudos for your willingness to speak about a boat's flaws.
HR is definitely following the popular, contemporary sailboat designs, which are a big 'turnoff' to me. Another negative aspect of the excessively wide stern is causing the bow to nosedive when heeled. I spoke with the designer of the Passport 545 at the Annapolis show last year, and he said that this design increases the chances of pitchpoling. He was also against twin wheels. Excessively beamy sailboats also get lower 'comfort index' numbers, though hardly anyone talks about that these days.
I am also dubious of the dependence on 'pushbutton' sailing for an ocean going yacht. How reliable are these systems, ten, twenty, thirty, years 'down the road'? Seems that a forty foot sailboat shouldn't need this much gadgetry.
I suppose that sailboat builders are trying to appeal to new buyers, which means that the boats I really like are a vanishing breed. Island Packet, Outbound, and Passport, and Rustler, are still producing beautiful boats.
If I buy a used boat that has teak decks, fine. I will say, if it's not the type of teak deck that was laid with glue and vac-bagged into place then I don't want it. If I see bungs where there are hundreds of screws holding the planks down I am either not buying that boat or I'm going to counter-offer for the deal of the century knowing that I have to scrape that teak off and possibly fix wet decks (and that is a metric s#!t-ton of work!)
Congratulations on what you two have done with your channel. It was well below average in polish and class before, and now it's well above average. That's an impressive transition to make and so few make it. So again I say congratulations, and job well done!
Nice review, and I do agree with you that the purpose of the design and model is unsure. Would be interesting to see your opening on the 40C that is seem to have a clearer purpose.
How do you know all this without sailing it. Your dribbling, thats all you do. Im over your dribble.
Geat comments regarding teak decks - simply not necesary any more and one area where the GRP hull industry can move to more environmentally appropriate materials.
Agree with this review. I do not understand why you would need three chart plotters in the cockpit of a 40 foot boat? Furthermore, that engine area is going to be a nightmare to service once you get a A/C and a water maker in there. Teak deck? Seriously I cannot imagine why you would want that extra work and expense. You didn’t show the deck storage, but from the the shape of the forward cabin I suspect the forward locker is quite small. Great northern latitudes coastal cruiser. Would not be crossing oceans or sailing in the tropics in it.
I hope you rraliu that not everyone has such dislike of colder weather or time to make long passages. They still can sail in areas where seaworthiness is highly needed.
It could also be possible that one brand can serve new different customer segments and doesn't have to limit itself to just theirs traditional segment.
Customers, and people general, don't make very rational decision when they're after some experiences. It is not for the seller or manufacturer to dictate what customers want to buy. Such attitude isn't a winning one in any business.
It is for living on board all year round in the northern Europe and Med region?
You always make factual points!
Agreed, strange boat that doesn't really know what niche it fills. Better options for everything it tries to do.
Funny that a 40 fot boat is called a pocket cruiser
I think all Rassy boats you don't have a choice it is only built with teak decks.Most people don't cruise the world so the wide stern is acceptable to get greater interior room.I have a Cabo Rico 38 and I agree with everything you said about this review.But the Rassy boats are built so well.
Many comments re HR teak decks. To be clear this and other models CAN be ordered WITHOUT teak. This is newish for HR and I’m not certain which models but I know for certain this model HR400 is absolutely available without teak. HR is now also offering a synthetic Teak option.
Spot on, Nick
Says the dude who’s getting a Seawind Catamaran. The equivalent of a chav Ford Fiesta on water 🚗🚿
Using the word "chav" doesn't make you sound like you really come from a perspective of any actual knowledge, unless you are super clever.
Let me enlighten you. Chav is meant to have its etymology from Chavvie (sp) which is what gypsies and romany people used to call their children. More recently it is used as derogation to mean something of low or low class.
Now if you consider our new boat to be low class, then you clearly have not done your armchair research well enough.
However if you are using "chav" in its original form, as the child of gypsies, then yeah, I kind of agree with you. I come from gypsy stock, can't ever seem to settle and this is our child
I agree with you about the teak as you only destroy forests to have teak plantations as for palm oil plantations, with the synthetic teak used today on the other hand you create a lot of micro plastic which enter the ocean from your deck, so a no go as well. The yacht itself might be good if you’re a day or weekend sailor but not for a live aboard.
Live aboard I would chose the 44 or maximum the 50. Ciao Patrik
Nice boat. But, I think you nailed it on this one.
Purists sailors don’t spend the money that Rassy wants people to spend. There is a pretty big market for sailors who want to do a bit of blue water sailing but certainly don’t want to criss cross the Atlantic every year. Comfort sells for families and it’s not just about the sailing.
Totally agree with you. These boats need to bet built with the same philosophy as the boats used in the GGR.
You say the deck wood would not do well in the Bahamas , bummer. I would think that that fact would loose a lot of buyers.
I think historically most buyers were Northern Europeans as that’s the cruising ground most HR’s best suited to. But this is definitely not the best option for the Bahamas
I'm a bit of a Rassy fan, and a few versions sit high on my wish list. Nonetheless, your review and thoughts are Ballsy and poignant in this case.
Say RR one more time , I'm turning off the sound.
Agreed, teak decking is pure vanity. and, design is confusing- all elements point too different things...
Thanks David, agreed.
Your flat transom theory doesn't stack up. I have sailed a new Swan 48 over 4000 miles. Flat transom and steady as a rock downwind
I haven’t watched all of your back catalogue so you may have covered this. I would love to hear your thoughts on what would be a good blue water 35 foot ish from the 70/80s I am counting on spending less than 40k including refit for a full time cruiser for two. Med and maybe Atlantic crossing.
Moody or Westerly. Always my go-to for 30-40 ft Mid 80's
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100% agreed on teak and twin wheels.
Do the Allures 45.9! Your opinion is always a new look. Always think the new HR under 50 feet are weekend boats, not a travel the world one
There is no question about the quality of the Hallberg Rassy's but I can't find a way to like their design (cockpit and interior). The finishing quality is certainly amazing though. Totally agree about the teak deck.
HI- Great Review and thoughtful perspective. Question; you mentioned flat transom and roll - can you explain this in more detail - I'm genuinely curious.
Yeah i didn't really understand that either. I thought the issue with a flat transom was more in following seas.
Susan & Tony here, Wow what a review , did not expect that. But vary honest and much of what we thought about this beautiful boat.
i will be glad when Ruby rose is complete and your sailing life begins
they may see the market changing. A strong boat for coastal cruising, with all the creature comforts of home.
I forgot to mention that I miss Terysa’s view point in recent videos and ready smile. Hope she is able to return soon.
Thanks mate 😊 I’m very much here behind the scenes but just haven’t been on camera in a while! Still here though 😆
@@sailingrubyrose good to hear Teresa, hope to see your contributions back on camera soon.
Thank you, for that teak story. I wholeheartedly support this statement.
Nice review. I’m sure you are going to get more than a few negative comments. But well done.
I'm with you nick not sure what it's purpose is great review keep up the great work
about as good as it gets but theyre very spendy
Turbocharged saildrive 😞
I agree on the teak issue but I would need to see how she handles .
2 years ago I visited the HR 440 and I came up with very similar conclusions like you, but additionally with 190 cm (not an abnormal scandinavian size) I felt incredibly cramped down below and not having enough headroom in the galley and the master cabin. Additionally the technical room was very nice, but no chance for me even the get myself through the door. All in all a great boat for the north sea but as a lifeaboard in lower latitudes not suitable. Just following on the keel design for the last 20 years and then it becomes obvious that circumnavigation is not their main focus in boat building anymore.
100% agreed. Went to the Annapolis boat show last year and it was amazing the number of monohulls with an "identity crisis." While the HR 400 I'm sure is more than capable of crossing oceans, the designers clearly tried to fit too many potential customer-types into one hull. It's like Porshe making an SUV. Just NO!
I think you have the answer; "Porsche sales with growth in the USA up by almost a quarter. China, the USA, and Germany were the largest market for Porsche in 2021. The top-selling Porsche models were the Macan, Cayenne, Taycan, and 911", note the first 2 are both SUVs. Market forces.
Do not forget:
- the by far best selling Porsches are SUVs.
Simply: Yes.
So with you on the teak....
I am the captain of a med based classic yacht and the time spent cleaning an item that heats the boat is pointless.
.... but a must have on a classic.
New build .... why bother.
Exactly this
Completely agree with your comments!
Where's the comfy upholstered angled arm chairs that Halberg Rassey's are known for?
Yeah that’s what I was wondering
They are on the option list, as is a larger forward berth. Nick really needs to do his research before slagging off a boat he can’t afford.
I have a HR40 and I agree on your assessments of the 400. I don't like twin steering wheels and twin rudders. The latter made necessary because of the shape of the stern of the 400.