European boat of the year announced

At the 41th Düsseldorf Boat Show 23rd-31st Jan 2001 the Halberg  Rassy 372 was awarded European Yacht of the Year. Boot Dusseldorf is the world’s largest yacht and waterpsorts Trade Fair.  Despite a 73% fall in exhibitor’s trade was brisk. I will be talking more about the effect of the recession in the next couple of weeks.

Halberg Rassy have been building yachts in Sweden since 1943 and to date have produced over 8750 boats. You will not see Halberg's in charter fleets, they are just too expensive. Very few yards produce production boats with such a high degree of handmade finish. No compromise is made in terms of materials or strength of construction. Although the interiors and design may be considered old fashioned the boats have developed from years of feedback from satisfied owners. Due to their strength and longevity second hand boats change hands with little depreciation. Ask any serious cruiser what his dream boat would be and it's a fair bet it will be a Halberg.

I was lucky enough to complete my first Atlantic crossing on SY Kitsilano, which was the predecessor of the 372. Everything just feels right, the use of solid wood not laminates, the oversized neck fittings and an extra strong hull that cuts through the water without slamming. The picture below demonstrates just how much attention to detail is lavished on the interior. The mass production yards such as Jeanneau may give you more lively performance or greater  interior space for your money but  those who demand quality will be left wanting.

By today's standards a 37 footer is a little small for a live-aboard yacht for a couple wishing to sail around the world. As a family cruiser it is an ideal size having enough accommodation for a family but not being too large to handle easily in a tight marina. If you have around £200 000 plus taxes all your dreams may just come true. Let's see what the press think of this new model.

" Pleasurable and easy to sail, this performance-tweaked coastal cruiser still retains that superior level of build and fit out and boasts a well-proportioned interior. Nimble, quick and easy to tack, she provides excellent cockpit comfort for both crew and helm, and is simple for a couple to manage. A quality boat that provides fast yet comfortable push-button sailing." Yachting World, UK