With the launch of the new Hallberg-Rassy 40C, the Swedish yacht builders are retiring the proven long-seller HR40, which was last available in the MKII version. The suffix C stands for "centre cockpit", which makes sense in this case. The only slightly larger Hallberg-Rassy 412 with aft cockpit (YACHT 16/2012 test) remains in the shipyard's programme. This means that the Swedes continue to occupy the extremely important and popular 40-foot hull length segment with two boats and different cockpit layouts.
Unsurprisingly, the new Hallberg-Rassy 40C also adopts the proven new type concept. This means double rudder blades, more hull volume in the foredeck and especially at the stern, a steep stem and a permanently attached bow trunk for additional light wind sails such as a gennaker or code zero. The new design was introduced with the Hallberg-Rassy 44 (YACHT 3/2017 test) and has since been further expanded with the HR 340 (YACHT 20/2017) and HR 57 (YACHT 20/2018 test). The new boat is now set to occupy the golden mean.
The centre cockpit of the 40C will have exactly the same dimensions as that of its larger sister, the HR 44. The helmsman's bench seat is also slightly raised on the new boat, which ensures a good view of the boat forwards and at the same time provides generous headroom below deck in the aft cabin. Halyards and trim lines are guided inside the cabin superstructure on two winches, which are integrated in the high cockpit coaming. The functions can be operated by both the crew and the helmsman sailing single-handed. This arrangement has already proved very successful in the HR44 test. All winches can also be equipped with electric drives and operated from the helm at the touch of a button. Buyers must decide whether they want a permanently integrated stern platform or a larger, folding bathing platform. This is the first time Hallberg-Rassy has offered this flexibility in this form. Customers can also choose between a fixed windscreen with flexible sprayhood or a robust hardtop.
Hallberg-Rassy can also cater to individual wishes and requirements for the interior fittings - more than ever before. The new 40C offers a choice of two different galley sizes. There is also variety for the aft master cabin, where you can choose between a large, central island bed or two separate berths to the side. What's more, the furnishings are available in traditional Khaya mahogany or light-coloured oak from Europe.
At the major Öpped Varv trade fair at the shipyard in Ellös (23 to 25 August 2019), interested parties will have the opportunity to see the new Hallberg-Rassy 40C under construction. The exciting ship will then celebrate its world premiere at the boot trade fair in Düsseldorf in January 2020. Shipyard boss Magnus Rassy has already given YACHT online an initial price estimate: the new ship, which as usual is superbly equipped with sails, will cost 3,957,600 Swedish krona ex shipyard, which is around 370,000 euros at the current exchange rate, excluding VAT.
The new Hallberg-Rassy 340 in an exclusive test off the Swedish west coast
