Comfort, speed and button control … The new Hallberg-Rassy 57 is a cool ocean cruiser for the understanding crew.
Hallberg-Rassy shipyard (Sweden) has long been known for the traditions, quality and reliability of its boats. The Swedes are never in a hurry, they do everything thoroughly and for centuries, which is always justified in yachting. The secondary market confirms this: Hallberg-Rassy boats almost do not lose in price over the years, largely due to the infrequent updating of the model range (some models were produced for 10-15 years).
The company does not pursue fashion trends, but only applies what is in harmony with its generally conservative concept. Nevertheless, the modernization of the Hallberg-Rassy line is underway. New yachts have found a wider stern, a voluminous cockpit, two rudders, “push-button” sail control, a folding platform and more spacious interiors, some models received a second steering wheel.
All this also applies to the Hallberg-Rassy 57 model, which replaced the HR55: it demonstrates the recognizable features of the brand, but visually became lighter, without losing in the least in power and reliability. Designed by Herman Freers, the HR57 attracted a lot of market interest, confirmed by real money (seven hulls have already been ordered), and in the press it immediately fell under the category of “dream boat”. Indeed, this is perhaps the most beautiful Hallberg-Rassy today.
Deck and cockpit
The deckhouse has become shorter and lower, making the yacht’s silhouette more dynamic. Fuller hull contours allowed for more usable space both on and under the deck. The central cockpit is well protected from wind and spray by a fixed windshield, traditional for Hallberg-Rassy. Two helm stations improve the helmsman’s working conditions while simultaneously opening easy access to the helms. The helmsman’s position is slightly raised, which gives both excellent visibility and a good headroom in the aft cabin.
The deck is free of equipment: its bow is lined up and the hatches are flush mounted, so there is nothing to interfere with the safe movement of the boat. An inflatable tuzik will fit in the aft compartment, and the total volume of deck storage (10 cubic meters!) Is quite enough for long autonomous transitions.
Under sail
The new Hallberg-Rassy is particularly enjoyable in light to medium winds. Not every heavy cruiser, such as the HR57, is capable of 6-7 knots down-hauled in 15 knots wind, accelerating at full heading to 11-12 knots. And all this with a standard set of sails! The two rudders promise easy handling in almost any roll and sea condition.
Whether on smooth water or in troubled weather, the HR57 demonstrates a steady ride, goes without yawing, confidently cutting the wave. During the steering process, the 28-ton vessel evokes positive emotions. The boat is well balanced and has an accurate feedback from the steering wheel, even in case of errors in steering or sail setting, it behaves calmly, mitigating the consequences of errors. This is partly why the HR57 is a good option for independent voyages without a hired skipper and crew, which is also helped by the “push-button” boat control.
Press the button!
The size of the yacht has long ceased to be the determining factor for the size of the crew: the HR57 can be operated even alone. All power loads are taken over by hydraulics and electric motors. The Seldén mast allows you to groove or twist the mainsail at the touch of a button; the twisting of the staysail works by the same principle. Control of all running systems is displayed on the steering console. The sheet winches are also electrically driven. The adjustment of the backstay and halyards is facilitated by hydraulic tensioners: the first is included in the basic set, the second is an option, as is the hydraulics on the main sheet.
The sailing wardrobe was specially designed for the HR57. Genoa is not very large and does not overlap the mainsail much, which makes maneuvering easier. Working with the headsail will be even easier if you put a shoulder strap for the self-shifting staysail (optional). The storm jib, gennaker or Code 0 are also not included in the basic set.
Hallberg-Rassy 57 dossier
Length:
18.44 m
Width:
5.15 m
Draft:
2.43 m
Displacement:
28 t
Keel weight:
9.9 t
Engine:
Volvo Penta D4-175
Water supply:
1050 l
Fuel supply:
1030 l
Headsail / Mainsail Area:
163/181 sq. m
Height above overhead lines:
26.90 m
Design:
Germán Frers Naval Architecture
RCD category:
“AND”
Thoughtful interiors
“Housing” conditions on board the HR57 are pleasing: 5-6 people can comfortably live here. All cabins are spacious and the shipyard offers a variety of berth configurations. By the way, the bow cabins are moved closer to the midship section, due to which they received additional volume. The master stateroom aft is simply huge and highlights the HR57’s advantages over more than its classmates.
The layout of the salon depends on the client’s preferences and whether he chooses the basic version of the galley on the starboard side or its longitudinal version on the port side. The second option will require a surcharge, but it is larger in size and, according to many, is more convenient for cooking at sea. The “long” galley has a large working area and allows for maximum equipment including an induction hob with oven, dishwasher and additional freezer.
The “long” galley has a large working area and allows you to place a maximum of equipment
The master suite is located where the pitching is least felt. There is plenty of light and a good level of comfort.
The interior of the salon. Instead of chairs and a bar (port side), you can order a long sofa
“Housing” conditions on board HR57 delight
In such a galley (port side), it is convenient to cook even with a strong heel
The engine compartment has a separate entrance. Good sound insulation and quiet operation of the engine are important components of comfort on the boat, as is the abundance of natural light.
The interior decoration material suggests the choice of mahogany or light European oak. The tree is used in the horizontal layout of the pattern, which favorably emphasizes the width and volume of the HR57 habitable areas.
Despite the rather extensive base equipment, the Hallberg-Rassy 57 has been criticized for some unreasonably expensive options or an incomprehensible set of equipment. For example, you have to pay extra for double beds in cabins: for some reason they are not in the database. This situation can be viewed comprehensively. The new HR57 is more than 600 thousand euros cheaper than the flagship of the HR64 shipyard, while the comfort on the first one is no less, and maybe even more, due to its technological novelty. The equipment of the new model to the maximum will only slightly increase the price, and then in terms of its capabilities the HR57 will definitely outstrip not only the top model of the line, but also the larger cruisers of competing shipyards. We are absolutely sure of this.
Text
Evgeniya Bakunova
Chief Editor
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