Contrast 36 vs HR 38

Rare Swedish performance versus passage pedigree: Contrast 36's sport hull against Hallberg-Rassy HR 38's Baltic bluewater finish. Side-by-side specs from published model data.

Contrast 36 vs Hallberg-Rassy 38 — sport lines vs offshore pedigree. Buyer advisory

Comparison table

CategoryContrast 36HR 38
Length overall11 m11.57 m
Beam3.3 m3.48 m
Production years1983–19891977–1986
OverviewThe Contrast 36 is one of Northern Europe's most recognisable production sailboats. Designed by E.G. van de Stadt and built in the Netherlands from 1983 to 1989 — a rare Dutch offshore performance cruiser with low Blocket 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 issuesQ: What chainplate corrosion issues appear on Contrast 36? A: Through-deck chainplate fittings on 1980s hulls need internal inspection for rust staining and soft laminate. Q: What aged standing rigging issues appear on Contrast 36? A: Offshore use accelerates fatigue; treat unknown rigging age as near-term replacement on passage-oriented boats.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.