HR 36 vs HR 38
Hallberg-Rassy centre-cockpit ladder: HR 36's compact offshore pedigree against HR 38's larger Baltic resale pool. Side-by-side specs from published model data.
HR 36 fits if you want classic Baltic centre-cockpit and a lively resale market; HR 38 when you need more space aboard and comfort on longer passages. Most finalists need a sea trial on both — teak, rigging age, and winter storage matter more than the number on the stern.
HR 36 vs HR 38 — Book advisory to compare standing rigging and deck moisture. Buyer advisory
Comparison table
| Category | HR 36 | HR 38 |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 10.87 m | 11.57 m |
| Beam | 3.55 m | 3.48 m |
| Production years | 1989–2003 | 1977–1986 |
| Overview | The HR 36 is one of Northern Europe's most traded centre-cockpit cruisers. Designed by Germán Frers for Hallberg-Rassy and built from 1989 to 2003 — a blue-water benchmark for Scandinavian couples stepping up from smaller HR and Najad hulls. | 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: Does the HR 36 suffer from osmosis? A: Yes — pre-1990 hulls built with non-osmosis-resistant polyester resin develop subsurface blistering in the boot stripe. Survey moisture readings above 15% (Tramex) on dry hulls warrant full treatment; typical cost at Nordic yards in 2024–2025 was €4,000–9,000 for hulls 10–11 m. | 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. |
Explore each boat
Common questions
- Who should choose the HR 36 over the HR 38?
- Choose the HR 36 if you want a classic Baltic centre-cockpit boat and a lively resale market. The HR 38 fits when you need more space aboard and comfort on longer passages.
- What matters more than overall length on these boats?
- Teak condition, rigging age, and winter-storage budget usually matter more than the number on the stern. Sea-trial both before you decide.
- Do I need a sea trial on both?
- Yes for most finalists — helm feel, noise, and how the centre cockpit feels under way are hard to judge from a dock walk alone.
- Is the resale market livelier for one of them?
- The HR 36 is often easier to compare in Nordic listings; the HR 38 sits in a smaller but serious long-passage niche. Always check live ads and inspection budget before deposit.