Frers has given this bestseller more comfort and more elegant lines. The sailing performance is excellent, even in light airs, but her speed increases effortlessly in response to every increase in wind strength. She reacts instantly to steering commands, but not nervously. From the moment you set sail she edicts a feeling of confidence, a feeling that is retained even in a freshening wind. The hull and deck are completely laminated and cast together with a polyester mixture, the resulting rigidity to the hull gives the boat a more comfortable ride in heavy seas.

The high standard of the build quality is valid throughout the whole build process and is evident even to a non-expert. It is not only the precisely fitted interior joinery, the dimensions and solid feel of the khaya mahogany with its varnished finish which is smooth to the touch. Even in those areas hidden from view Hallberg-Rassy is leading its competitors. For example the heating hoses are double, in order to minimize loss of heat. The pressure water pump is not just fitted anywhere as an afterthought but in rubber in the already insulated engine room so that noise levels are reduced. All these things are evidence of how determined Hallberg-Rassy are to continually move the limits in an effort to provide their clients with the ideal cruising yacht.

It is easy to fall in love with the 342 just because she has so many better details than other yachts in this segment of the industry. But it is not just the attention to detail, it is the great overall concept where she scores points. At 10.32 x 3.42 m (33’10’’ x 11’3’’) she has the best layout on the market, ideal for a crew of four. This new model has what it takes to become a class leader. Part of the explanation is that there is hardly any direct competition for this yacht. But even if the competition were keener, the market tougher, the Hallberg-Rassy 342 would still hold her exceptional position safely. We have rarely sailed a yacht that is so carefully evaluated."