HR 36 vs HR 43
Two Hallberg-Rassy centre-cockpit icons on Nordic shortlists: HR 36's compact bluewater pedigree versus HR 43's extra volume and passage-oriented layout. Side-by-side specs from published model data.
Hallberg-Rassy size step — advisory clarifies cabin layout trade-offs before you stretch budget for extra volume. Buyer advisory
Comparison table
| Category | HR 36 | HR 43 |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 10.87 m | 13.57 m |
| Beam | 3.55 m | 4.08 m |
| Production years | 1989–2003 | 2001–2016 |
| 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, roughly 800+ hulls left the yard — a blue-water benchmark for Scandinavian couples stepping up from smaller HR and Najad hulls. Wit… | The HR 43 is one of Northern Europe's most recognisable production sailboats. Built from 2001 to 2016 at Hallberg-Rassy in Ellös, roughly 170–210 hulls left the yard — a Frers-influenced offshore cruiser that bridges manageable size and true passage capability. With 13.05 m LOA,… |
| 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: How serious are chainplate problems on HR 36? A: Deck core moisture around… | Q: Are rudder bearing problems common on HR 43? A: Rudder bearing play develops on 1995–2005 hulls after sustained offshore use — measurable slop (more than 5mm lateral movement at rudder tip) warrants haul-out inspection before purchase. Repair cost at a Scandinavian yard: €800–2,500 for bearing replacement. Q: What diesel engine issues are most reported? A: The Volvo Penta MD22 and later engine… |