This is what many Hallberg-Rassy fans have been waiting for: a new 34-footer. The development has been on the cards. Last year, shipyard boss Magnus Rassy presented a new generation of HR yachts with the 44, featuring double rudder blades and a bathing hatch (test in YACHT 3/2017). Now the shipyard is taking the next logical step in the further expansion of its range with a new ship for the popular ten-metre segment and as a successor to the Hallberg-Rassy 342, the Swedes' previous successful model from 2005, which was built a total of 328 times.
The 340 features the same design innovations as its larger sister, the Hallberg-Rassy 44: a steep bow stem, a firmly laminated bowsprit (also serves as an anchor hold) and a significantly wider stern with the option of a fold-down bathing platform. The smaller boat now also comes with two rudder blades, which offer many advantages, especially in windy conditions. The ship will sail more controlled under pressure and heeling, as her larger sister HR 44 has already demonstrated in the YACHT test. To compensate for the wide stern, Germán Frers' design is also significantly more voluminous in the foredeck area than the previous model and with visibly more round bulkheads in the underwater hull. The length of the waterline is 1.01 metres longer than the previous 342 model.
Another consequence of the new design language: for the first time in the history of the shipyard, double wheel steering is offered for a Hallberg-Rassy. This allows a free and unobstructed passage through the boat and provides clear steering positions in the aft cockpit. However, the Swedes will only offer this layout as an option - the standard for the ten-metre boat is and remains tiller steering. The new ship will carry a short, 105 per cent overlapping genoa, as well as a moderate mainsail with a slight leech. A self-tacking jib will be feasible as an alternative. The two-saling rig from Sélden will also have a very strong backstay tensioner (1:24 ratio) with a Dyneema cascade as standard
A total of four flush-mounted skylights, plus seven side windows that can be opened and another three hull windows - so there is plenty of natural light and fresh air below deck. The two separate cabins fore and aft offer large enough berths for two people. And the side sofas in the saloon can also be used as additional berths.
Shipyard boss Magnus Rassy quotes an introductory price of 221,400 euros (including 19 per cent VAT) for his latest addition. This is the same price that the shipyard last charged for the predecessor model 342. There is therefore no price increase associated with the generation change.
The world premiere of the new Hallberg-Rassy 340 will take place at the Inwater trade fair. "Öppet Varv" from 25 to 27 August at the HR shipyard in Ellös.
The Hallberg-Rassy 44 tested by YACHT-TV
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Michael Good
Editor Test & Technology
