Hallberg-Rassy 62 Information, Review, Specs

The Hallberg-Rassy 62 emerged from a rich tradition of boatbuilding on Sweden's Orust island, carrying forward the legacy of Hallberg-Rassy's commitment to high-quality bluewater yachts. Designed by the celebrated naval architect Germán Frers, the 62 was introduced in 1997 and remained in production until 2011, with 25 examples built during this period. Frers, who began his collaboration with Hallberg-Rassy in 1988, brought a design philosophy that blended modern performance characteristics with classic cruising aesthetics, ensuring comfort and seaworthiness. The builder's ethos during this era emphasized robust construction, often featuring heavily built fiberglass hulls, to create yachts that inspire confidence for long-distance voyaging. As the then-flagship of the Hallberg-Rassy fleet, the 62 embodied years of experience and a synergy of efforts between the yard and the design office, aiming to produce the best possible yacht of its kind.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hallberg-Rassy 62 is characterized by a high-performance, well-balanced hull designed for efficient and easy handling. With a length overall of nearly 62 feet (61.94 ft) and a waterline length of 50.2 feet, she offers a substantial platform for offshore sailing. The boat has a displacement of 72,752 lbs, combined with a ballast of 24,251 lbs, giving it a ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.33. This indicates a solid, stable vessel, capable of handling various conditions without being overly stiff or tender.

Her sail area to displacement ratio of roughly 16.98 suggests a moderately powered cruiser, performing well in a range of wind conditions but not optimized purely for light-air racing. The displacement to length ratio of approximately 256.74 places the Hallberg-Rassy 62 firmly in the moderate displacement category, signifying a robust and comfortable cruising boat rather than a lightweight performance machine. The fin keel and substantial skeg-hung rudder contribute to her steady performance and ease of handling, belying her considerable size. Owners and reviewers have noted her exhilarating sailing performance, describing it as "really good". The design priorities of the HR 62 ensure that it remains easy for a family crew to manage, even on long voyages, promoting independence from requiring a large crew.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Hallberg-Rassy 62 is a testament to Scandinavian design sensibilities, known for comfort, safety, and elegant aesthetics. Typically, the interior is handcrafted from selected teak, finished to a satin varnish, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The layouts are described as logical, well-arranged, and practical for extended periods aboard, whether at sea or at anchor.

While specific headroom is not detailed, the yacht offers a very light and airy interior with a luxurious main salon. Accommodation typically includes four cabins, capable of sleeping up to eight persons, or as many as ten in some configurations, offering ample space for owners and guests. The galley is designed for seagoing use, featuring white Corian countertops with fiddles, ensuring functionality even in rough conditions. These elements, combined with Hallberg-Rassy's renowned craftsmanship, provide a comfortable and functional living space for extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hallberg-Rassy 62 consistently praise its quality construction and bluewater capabilities. They frequently highlight its comfort and ease of handling, even for a family crew, making it a capable world cruiser. The ability of the yacht to offer "all you need for a comfortable life afloat on passage, at anchor, or alongside" is a recurring theme in owner discussions. The solid build and luxurious styling are often mentioned as strong points.

While Hallberg-Rassy yachts are generally known for their durability, like any vessel, some common maintenance considerations may arise. General issues noted across Hallberg-Rassy models, which could apply to the 62, include potential fiberglass delamination, various leaks from thru-hull fittings and vents, and issues with the teak deck over time. However, the strong sense of community among Hallberg-Rassy owners often provides a valuable resource for addressing these, with platforms for sharing experiences and expert advice. Owners appreciate the deep knowledge Hallberg-Rassy instills in their yachts, from design to fit-out, which contributes to a positive ownership experience.