Hallberg-Rassy 40C: Top 10 Best Best Nominee
Photo courtesy of Hallberg-Rassy
Last year, we reviewed the new Hallberg-Rassy 400 and deemed it one of SAIL’s Top 10 Best Boats for 2023. Interestingly, it came to the U.S. ahead of its immediate predecessor, the center-cockpit 40C, which this year is making its U.S. debut though it was launched ahead of the 400. It’s the same handsome, powerful-looking hull as the 400, with twin rudders, plumb bow, and integral bowsprit for setting A-sails, as well as a three-spreader Seldén spar with in-mast furling.
The well-sheltered cockpit has the same measurements of the H-R 44, with a single helm providing immediate access to all sailhandling and engine controls including throttle, autopilot, and bow and stern thrusters. Electric winches and smart placement of controls on the helm make shorthanded setting, trimming, and reefing a piece of cake. The mainsheet is immediately aft of the helm on a traveler, and a fold-out table is attached to the front of the helm pedestal.
Below, there are two galley options to starboard—large or enormous. The latter provides space for an additional fridge as well as dishwasher and microwave. Both are seaworthy workspaces. Access to the aft cabin is via passageway on the portside, which also houses the nav station with chart table and the renowned H-R electrical panel. Engine access is also terrific via doors in this passage and in the aft cabin.
The salon may have the traditional H-R comfy chairs to starboard or a straight settee that doubles as a sea berth. Opposite is the C-shaped dinette, and forward through a short passage is the V-berth; the head is in this passage to port. The full-width owner’s cabin aft can be two separate berths—a single and a double with lounge seat between—or a wide centerline berth with settee to port and dressing table to starboard.
Throughout, this boat exhibits the attention to detail, stout construction, and joinery that are hallmarks of Hallberg-Rassy.
LOA 40’4” LWL 38’6” Beam 13’8” Draft 6’4” Displacement (light) 24,250 lbs Sail Area 970 sq ft (main and genoa)
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