After its predecessor, the Mk II, performed convincingly in strong winds in the YACHT test six years ago, the new Hallberg-Rassy 43 Mk III had a much tougher time. There was only a light wind of between 4 and 10 knots in the Bay of Lübeck off Neustadt. Not exactly ideal conditions for a 14-tonne tourer in full long-distance configuration, whose hull lines date back to 2001.
But the Swede also coped with this, surprisingly well in fact. Despite her long keel and half-skeg rudder, she proved to be surprisingly fast, logging speeds of between 4 and 6 knots upwind and still up to 5 knots downwind without a gennaker. Nobody needs the 75 hp Volvo Penta, which is extremely well insulated.
As the hull and rig are almost unchanged from the Mk II, the modifications are mainly limited to the area below deck. In particular, the aft cabin in the version with a large centre berth has been noticeably increased in space and brightness. By moving the berth all the way back to the transom, the shipyard has created more standing space in the passageway to the owner's bathroom.
The saloon is now also much brighter and therefore feels more spacious. Two hull windows and four large superstructure windows in the HR 43 Mk III let in more light than before - and offer a good view both when standing and sitting.
The only drawback is that the transverse ventilation is now limited, but this only plays a role in very hot areas. As the flush-glued panes in the superstructure cannot be opened, only hatches and the new, flat deck vents provide ventilation.
Find out what other changes have been made and why the Mk III can still hold its own on the market despite its younger competitors in the exclusive test in YACHT 13-2014 - available from newsagents today.
Jochen Rieker
Herausgeber YACHT
