A visit with Hans Rysgaard and the wisdom of choosing the right boat! Through the Eyes of a Passionate Owner!

When sailors speak of the “Cadillac of sailboats,” they’re often referring to Hallberg Rassy yachts. These Swedish-built vessels have earned their reputation through decades of exceptional craftsmanship, seaworthiness, and attention to detail. Among the yard’s most beloved models is the HR 31 Mk I, a boat that perfectly embodies the philosophy of “just enough boat” – large enough to cruise comfortably, yet manageable enough to sail regularly.

Meeting Hans Rysgaard and “Min Amanda”

Recently, we had the privilege of visiting Hans Rysgaard at Langelinie Marina in Denmark, just 250 meters from the famous Little Mermaid statue. Hans, born in 1940, is the proud owner of “Min Amanda,” a beautiful Hallberg Rassy 31 Mk I that exemplifies why this model has captured the hearts of sailors worldwide.

“I’ve always wanted a Hallberg Rassy,” Hans told us during our visit. “My friends have always called them the Cadillac of sailboats, and I had to have one!” Before “Min Amanda,” Hans owned an HR 29, which he loved dearly for many years. When the opportunity arose to upgrade to a more modern boat, the Hallberg Rassy 31 Mk I was the natural choice.

Remember setting your languages subtitles in the lower, right corner when playing the YouTube video:

Hans’s philosophy about boat ownership resonates with many experienced sailors: “I don’t think you should buy too big a boat. It’s hard to find crew, and friends buy large boats that just sit in the marina and never go sailing. I think that’s a shame.” His approach emphasizes the importance of choosing a manageable vessel that encourages regular use rather than intimidates with its complexity.

The Hallberg Rassy 31 Mk I: Technical Excellence

The Hallberg-Rassy 31 was built 18 years (!) from 1992 – 2009 in 356 units. That is one of the longest production runs in Hallberg-Rassy’s history. This impressive production run speaks to the model’s enduring appeal and proven design.

The HR 31 Mk I features the classic Hallberg Rassy hallmarks: impeccable mahogany joinery, thoughtful interior layout, and robust construction designed for serious sailing. Despite her compact 31’7″ length, the boat offers remarkable space efficiency with a full navigation table, spacious galley, comfortable saloon, and well-appointed accommodations.

One aspect that Hans particularly appreciates about his boat is its dual-purpose capability. “My wife and I, who have sailed together for many years, think that the day we can’t do as much as we can today, we have a super motorboat. And if the engine fails, we can set the sails.”

Hans’s Upgrades: Learning from Experience

Over the years, Hans has made several thoughtful upgrades to “Min Amanda” that reflect both his sailing experience and the boat’s intended use:

Engine Upgrade: Perhaps the most significant modification was replacing the original 19hp engine with a new 33hp Solé diesel. “The boat was born with too small an engine in my opinion,” Hans explains. This upgrade provides better performance in challenging conditions and greater confidence when maneuvering in tight marinas.

Bow Thruster: Hans installed a bow thruster, which he describes as “a great advantage when doing harbor maneuvers.” For a boat frequently sailed by a couple, this addition significantly reduces stress during docking and departure.

Modern Electronics: The boat is equipped with updated electronics including autopilot, chart plotter, and VHF radio. These modern additions enhance both safety and sailing enjoyment while maintaining the classic character of the boat.

Active Sailing: The Key to Enjoyment

Hans’s approach to boat ownership centers on regular use. Every Monday, he participates in club racing at Langelinie Harbor, and he also competes in neighboring clubs’ events. While his long-distance cruising days around Zealand and Funen may be behind him, Hans continues to explore the beautiful waters of the Øresund, taking advantage of the excellent marina facilities on both the Danish and Swedish sides.

This active approach to sailing demonstrates one of the HR 31 Mk I’s greatest strengths: it’s a boat that encourages regular use rather than overwhelming its owners with complexity or size.

Buyer’s Guide: Do’s and Don’ts for HR 31 Mk I Purchasers

Do’s:

Inspect the Hull Thoroughly: Look for any signs of osmosis or gel coat crazing. While Hallberg Rassy’s construction quality is excellent, any fiberglass boat of this age deserves careful inspection.

Check the Rigging: Examine standing rigging for signs of fatigue, particularly at terminal ends and spreader connections. The masthead rig is simple but requires proper maintenance.

Evaluate the Engine: Many HR 31 Mk I boats still have their original 19hp engines. Consider whether this power is adequate for your intended use, or budget for an upgrade like Hans’s.

Test All Systems: Check the electrical system, plumbing, and all through-hulls. Ensure electronics are functional and up-to-date for your navigation needs.

Review Maintenance Records: A well-documented maintenance history indicates careful ownership and can reveal potential issues.

Don’ts:

Don’t Rush the Survey: Take time for a comprehensive survey by a qualified marine surveyor. This investment can save thousands later.

Don’t Overlook Interior Condition: While mahogany joinery is beautiful, check for signs of moisture damage or delamination in high-humidity areas.

Don’t Ignore Sail Condition: Budget for sail replacement or repair if needed. Quality sails are crucial for performance and safety.

Don’t Forget About Winterization: If buying in a climate requiring winter storage, ensure proper winterization procedures have been followed.

Don’t Underestimate Ongoing Costs: Factor in marina fees, insurance, maintenance, and equipment upgrades when calculating your budget.

The HR 31 Mk I Community

One of the great joys of owning a Hallberg Rassy is joining a worldwide community of passionate sailors. The Hallberg Rassy Club connects owners across the globe, sharing knowledge, experiences, and creating lasting friendships on the water.

Whether you’re planning coastal cruises, participating in club racing, or simply enjoying peaceful afternoons on the water, the HR 31 Mk I offers the perfect platform for sailing adventures. Hans Rysgaard’s experience with “Min Amanda” demonstrates that the right boat – one that matches your abilities, ambitions, and lifestyle – will provide decades of sailing satisfaction.

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