Hallberg-Rassy 31 vs Nor’Sea 27

[LaughingWarrior]

Originally Posted by El Pinguino

One thing I see that I don't like and which could lead to tears in high latitudes is the rudder - described by BP as ' a spade type that is partially balanced on a vertical stock.'
The rudder post ( within the rudder ) only seems to extend as far as the foot of that demi-skeg.

No problem I am sure in the middle latitudes.

[El Pinguino]

Originally Posted by LaughingWarrior

Interesting - if you look here https://www.yachtworld.com/yacht/199...sy-31-8383761/ at both the first photo and then scroll twice to the left the rudder on that '95 one looks quite different.

I blame it on a trick of the light.

[wingssail]

Originally Posted by El Pinguino

Interesting - if you look here https://www.yachtworld.com/yacht/199...sy-31-8383761/ at both the first photo and then scroll twice to the left the rudder on that '95 one looks quite different.

I blame it on a trick of the light.

Apparently these boats could have been ordered in different configurations. Example the one on yacht world has a wheel but the drawing from sailboat data shows a tiller. However they both show similar rudders, with a short skeg, three bearings, and a full weldment which extends to the end of the rudder. Very strong.

But Whoa! I hope that one is not the one OP's looking at. It has a club footed self tacking jib and an in-the-mast roller furling mainsail. Run, don't walk.

[LaughingWarrior]

This doesn't show the internal structure of the rudder, but it's a good look at how they've done the lower bearing on the 34, just for context. All the specs I've read state that HR use a solid SS rod for the rudder post.

[LaughingWarrior]

Originally Posted by wingssail

Apparently these boats could have been ordered in different configurations. Example the one on yacht world has a wheel but the drawing from sailboat data shows a tiller. However they both show similar rudders, with a short skeg, three bearings, and a full weldment which extends to the end of the rudder. Very strong.

But Whoa! I hope that one is not the one OP's looking at. It has a club footed self tacking jib and an in-the-mast roller furling mainsail. Run, don't walk.

Yes, even the 31 was offered with optional wheel steering, as well as the 34+.

[/QUOTE]

[Cloroxbottle]

Originally Posted by kebisho1

I’ve got a dilemma choosing between a 1994 31 foot Hallberg-Rassy and a 1991 Nor’Sea 27. Cost is not a factor. My concerns are blue water capability, sailing performance, and live ability. Any opinions and/or suggestions are greatly appreciated.

Unless you must have a trailerable boat, pick the HR.

[Ladri]

Originally Posted by wingssail

I'm sorry, I almost thought you must be joking. The Halberg Rassy is a real boat, a true off shore sailboat, from a world class company and drawn by one of the best designers ever. You mentioned sailing performance and blue water capability; there is no comparison whatsoever. As for livability, I have no Idea, I look primarily at the sailing quality and the build, and for that, the HR is the only choice of these two, and in this size range, probably one of the best in the world, superb.

And I hate to be offensive to those people who would choose the NorSea, but it is a throw back to the 1900's and not a good one at that.

I'll trust the Nor'Sea 27 seaworthy over a HR 31 over more roomy interior n speed... The Nor Sea is more robust which is obvious just by its lapstake hull construction, 3/4 inch thick fiberglass encapsulating the ballast, long keel with cut to overcome hard grounding and a massive rudder which will withstand more punishment than a spade rudder especially if orcas wish to play. trust it around cape horn with that construction vs a HR 31...

[wingssail]

Originally Posted by Ladri

I'll trust the Nor'Sea 27 seaworthy over a HR 31 over more roomy interior n speed... The Nor Sea is more robust which is obvious just by its lapstake hull construction, 3/4 inch thick fiberglass encapsulating the ballast, long keel with cut to overcome hard grounding and a massive rudder which will withstand more punishment than a spade rudder especially if orcas wish to play. trust it around cape horn with that construction vs a HR 31...

It sounds like you prefer the Nor'Sea because it would withstand punishment like groundings. If that is your focus then fine. But ability to sail out of a tough situation and just feeling good while sailing is my priority. As far as seaworthy, the HR is a superbly capable vessel.

[Ladri]

Yes, you are correct on my focus regarding grounding... I do not intend to look for grounding adventures if I can help it but prefer something constructed to mitigate serious damage... you just never know when that lucky day may strike... And no doubt the HR 31 is a capable of sailing anywhere in the right hands and I'll add a more comfortable cruiser but I lean on those little stout pocket cruisers as Nor'Sea 27's designed for such predicament n overbuilt for safety...

[JPA Cate]

One time, I saw a NorSea27 on a multiple roller trailer. The hull had deflected at least one whole inch. I think the OP'd be better off with the Hallberg-Rassey, too. The NS only has to have had one bad trailer ride to have hidden hull damage. The HR has the enduring reputation of being very well built. It was also built in a time when boats were easy to understand, and fairly straightforward to repair.



Ann