The Hallberg-Rassy 48 Mk II debuted onto the world stage in 2014 and is in production today. What does this bluewater Swedish sloop have to offer?
Of course, the Mk II leans into the Hallberg-Rassy heritage. The Swedish company has been around since 1972, and it’d be hard to find a true fan of proper bluewater sailboats who isn’t familiar with the brand. The original 48 Mk I ran from 2004 to 2013 and had a successful run of 69 boats built.
The Mk II carries on the torch as fundamentally the same boat, but with several relatively minor improvements.
In fact, the manufacturer touts a very precise list of 15 such improvements, listed on their website hallberg-rassy.com, under the information on the 48 Mk II. Notable among these mostly aesthetic improvements are the seven slim style ventilators that close whenever water ends up coming in. We can assume that addresses concerns from Mk I owners who ran into foul weather and found that an issue.
The Mk II, like the Mk I, has a center cockpit with aft cabin design, securely keeping the helmsman and crew in the middle of the boat and under a large windshield. Unlike double ender Hallberg-Rassys of yore, the Mk II has a near-plumb transom with permanent steps into the water.
Down below, buyers have several choices of berth layouts with the aft stateroom being the most sumptuous. Larger portholes are on that 15-point list and it shows with a brighter interior. The Mk II is powered by a Volvo Penta D3-110, 110-horsepower 5-cylinder inboard diesel, that sounds rather robust and ready for the job.
If you’re a fan of Hallberg-Rassys, don’t fear the change. The 48 Mk II is fundamentally the same at the 48 Mk I, just a bit brighter on the inside and with a larger TV option. Why completely redesign what isn’t broken? If interested in more information or pricing, you can contact local dealer Swiftsure Yacht Sales.
