Albin Ballad 30 vs HR 38
Albin Nordic cruiser versus Swedish centre-cockpit pedigree: Ballad 30's compact coastal layout against Hallberg-Rassy HR 38's Baltic resale pool. Side-by-side specs from published model data.
Ballad 30 vs HR 38 — advisory clarifies which refit budget matches your plans. Buyer advisory
Comparison table
| Category | Albin Ballad 30 | HR 38 |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 9.14 m | 11.57 m |
| Beam | 2.95 m | 3.48 m |
| Production years | 1971–1982 | 1977–1986 |
| Overview | The Albin Ballad 30 is one of Northern Europe's most recognisable production sailboats. Designed by Rolf Magnusson for Albin Marin and built from 1971 to 1982 — one of Sweden's most successful racing-cruisers — IOR-era regatta liquidity. | The HR 38 is one of Northern Europe's most recognisable production sailboats. Designed by Olle Enderlein for Hallberg-Rassy and built from 1977 to 1982 — a classic Enderlein blue-water cruiser before the Frers era scaled the range. |
| Typical issues | Q: What keel bolt corrosion issues appear on Albin Ballad 30? A: T-keel bolts on long-lived Ballads need periodic survey; crevice corrosion at the hull joint can run 20 000–55 000 SEK to address properly. | Q: What osmotic blistering issues appear on HR 38? A: Older HR GRP may show osmosis; barrier-coat history should be documented. Q: What chainplate leak issues appear on HR 38? A: Chainplate backing pads need internal inspection for laminate softness. Q: What iron keel corrosion issues appear on HR 38? A: Iron ballast encapsulation should be verified with moisture readings. |