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Every year, sailboat manufacturers around the world launch their latest models, and every year, American magazine SAIL’s experienced boat reviewers spend days and weeks learning what’s new, talking with boatbuilders, examining the boats top to bottom dockside, and finally taking them sailing. This culminates at the U.S. Sailboat Show in Annapolis, where Sail magazines review team gets together and makes its final assessments on which boats earn top honors. Results are announced in the January/February issue, and full reviews of the winning boats will be published throughout the year.

Sail magazine writes: 

This boat’s sibling, the aft-cockpit Hallberg-Rassy 400, earned a Top 10 win last year, so we were excited to see how the venerable Swedish builder would incorporate a center cockpit into this Germán Frers design. 

The answer is masterfully. "Even at a glance from the dock," says Lydia, "you can tell that this is an adventurer's boat." While it shares the same handsome, powerful-looking hull as the 400—with twin rudders, plumb bow, and integral bowsprit for setting A-sails—the boat’s center cockpit has the same dimensions as the 44 for more space. 

Still, safe and sensible bluewater sailing remain the emphasis here, and we love that a mainsail traveler and adjustable backstay are par for the course and fall easily to hand. 

Below, the arrangement provides for a spacious aft master cabin and salon with two terrific galley layout options and beautiful joinery throughout. 

Hallberg-Rassys are known for offshore chops, but this boat impressed us with its nimble performance during a light air sail off Annapolis. 

“The 40C carries the renowned Hallberg-Rassy DNA for build quality, infused with faster sailing capability,” Adam says. “It exceeded expectations in light air, and details stand out throughout the build that suggest great offshore and long-range cruising capability.” 

Read the full review in the January/February SAIL. Watch the walkthrough video here.