LUXURY CRUISERS
NOMINEES: Hallberg-rassy 57, Sunbeam 46.1, Wauquiez 42 Pilot Saloon
All three are winners in my books. The 57 is arguably the best-looking Hallberg-rassy to date. Seen afloat, its long Frers lines are bewitching.
Before the sea trials began, I would have put money on a Hallberg-rassy or the
Wauquiez winning an award. The fact that neither did is no criticism of those models, but merely gives a clue to the depth of quality in this category and the class of the Sunbeam. All three are winners in my book.
The Wauquiez is the definition of a modern pilot saloon cruiser that packs in so much for its size, while maintaining a high-quality finish throughout. Perhaps the only slight negative mark is that the cockpit is a little exposed and the helm area compressed. We did a full test report of the 42PS in the October issue and could find very little else to fault. The interior in particular is incredible.
The 57 is arguably the best-looking Hallberg-rassy to date. Seen afloat, its long Frers lines are bewitching. Look closer and you’ll notice how the Rassy hallmarks, such as fixed windscreen and blue stripes, meld with a modern, powerful hull shape that features a wide transom, straight stem and twin rudders. The resultant sailing qualities are superb, particularly for a centre cockpit design.
It’s the type of boat that you just want to keep sailing offshore. Having cleared the rocky islets off Orust and made it into open water, sailing at 8-8.5 knots upwind in a Force 4, I just wanted to carry on heading to Denmark (despite knowing a front was approaching).
Twin wheels help provide better views forward as well as access through the deep, long, protected cockpit. Down below is a spacious oak (or mahogany) interior on one level, with plenty of natural light – which is appreciated particularly in the saloon and sumptuous aft cabin.
Hallberg-rassy 57
The HR57 is all about easy, elegant push-button sailing at high average speeds – it’s proper luxury, both in the cockpit and down below. Price ex VAT: €1.45m (sail away)
Wauquiez 42 Pilot Saloon
A practical cruiser with volume for tanks and stowage yet still sails well. From the vacuum-infused lay-up to the fittings and gadgets, the 42PS oozes quality. Price ex VAT: €380,000