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Sabre’s Storied 50-year History and Unwavering Success

May 1, 2020 | Magazine , News , Sabre Yachts | 0 comments

Sabre Yachts officially got its start in 1970 building small production sailboats in Southeastern Maine. Before that time, founder Roger Hewson was working in his family’s construction company when he decided to design and build his first boat: a wide, blunt-nosed sailing scow that he named for its length and impressive speed in cutting through the water—like a Sabre. While attending McGill University Roger met a young lady named Charlotte, fell in-love and eventually they would marry. Charlotte’s family happened to have a large property in Raymond, Maine where they operated a popular girls summer camp. Although 25 miles from the nearest ocean put-in at Casco Bay, the couple decided to build Sabre Yachts from this location.

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How are Sabres higher quality?

• Thread starter Scandium
• Start date Jul 23, 2019
• Brand-Specific Forums
• Sabre Sailboats

You would also find the 'specs' of a BMW M5 and a Ford Mustang GT similar. But one for sure is a 'better' car. Because it's built to a different (higher) price point. Same thing in boats. Sabres are 'better' mostly in the detail of their construction, and to a certain degree their materials. Some of this makes them better boats, some of it personal taste. Mind you none of this makes them inherently more seaworthy, or fast. Design and construction technique, and economies of scale can make a production boat of similar performance and capability. PS - often heavier construction is simply the cheapest.  

both are nice boats. both will get you from A to B safely. it will come down to how well the boat you buy was looked after.  

Stu Jackson

This is a discussion of why people chose one model over another, and represents some folks' choice process. http://www.c34.org/faq-pages/faq-c34-owners-review.html  

Kings Gambit

What I’ve noticed generally is that the yachts at the low end of the price range for their length (e.g. 40 ft) have more quality variance in the details, or “trim” level. That is, the lower-priced ones will have more examples of “cheap” components than the higher-priced ones. To produce yachts at or below a certain market-based price point, high or highest quality cannot be maintained for every component. For example, whether SS deck cleats or aluminum, chocks or no chocks, SS chafe guards or none, cabin liner or none, lead keel or cast iron, high-quality SS lifelines w/high-quality pelican hooks versus lower quality lines with “cheap” snap shackles, SS port light frames or plastic, fully bronze thru-hulls and valves or other; it goes on and on right down to the placements (e.g., functional or just plain idiotic) of cabin lights & their quality. Also, importantly, the quality and beauty of interior joinery. It is warm with wood and wood tones, or comparatively stark and “uninviting” with synthetic paneling or similar, etc. In terms of hull/deck construction, you might see decks thru-bolted to the hull versus glued & screwed. Bulkheads tabbed to the hull or not. Masts keel-stepped or deck-stepped, etc.  

WadeBoggsCarpetWorld

One difference: the interior of the Sabre 30 is "stick built," whereas the Catalina 30 is "pan built." That means that all of the furniture inside was constructed from wood, and any attachment points were tabbed to the hull. A boat that's pan built has a molded fiberglass liner on the interior, which holds all the furniture and often makes up the cabin sole. A liner is nice because it's waterproof, easy to clean, and doesn't have to be refinished. It's also much easier to make for production boatbuilders, as you don't need to employ as many carpenters. However, it's a nightmare if you need to gain access to anything underneath it that the builders didn't think about. If there's not an existing access hole, such as for the bilge or thru-hulls, you gotta cut one yourself. On a stick built boat, you could just take apart the cabinet or settee and there's your hull. I grew up sailing a Pearson 30 (pan built), and the first boat I owned myself was a Sabre 30 mk2 (stick built). After experiencing the limitations of an interior liner, I decided I would never own a boat that had one.  

Having owned multiple Catalina's a 30, 310 and a 36, and having approx 40+ customers with Sabre's, I can say without a doubt there is little comparison in terms of construction quality between a Sabre and Catalina. Catalina's are fine boats but they are not in the same league as a Sabre overall build quality wise. Things such as screwed in bulkheads on a Catalina vs. tabbed & stick built (fiber glassed) bulkheads on the Sabre to teak and holly soles vs. bare fiberglass on the C-30 to a shoe box deck/hull joint on the C-30 vs. an overlapping joint on the Sabre. Balsa vs plywood coring. Lack of wood in the keel stub of the Sabre, Catalina smile very common vs. extremely rare on the Sabre. The list goes on. Nothing wrong with either boat, but there is no doubt the Sabre is built to a higher level. I know this because I crawl around the inner-workings of boats for a living.... All that said what matters when buying a used boat is maintenance history & condition, condition, condition....  

SBO Weather and Forecasting Forum Jim & John

This is an impressive scroll of valid reasons which I think support Sabre's quality, and some I hadn't thought of. I'll only add that a portion of the perceived value of some boat designer/builders, is mystical. Experienced buyers will seek these popular (like Sabre) used boats out and likely keep them in good nick. That in turn adds $ value as buyers (like OP), will pay a little more to own one. Hinckley is a classic example of out of date boats that have increased in value over decades. The high quality accounts for the bulk of this increase (especially high quality components that last), but some has to be attributed to the Hinckley mystique. The Sabre name has a little of that mystique.  

Here's a different tack for ya. You're looking at quality vs cost, your wife is looking at amenities, and the clock is ticking. Believe it or not, the clock ticks faster as time goes on and if you don't believe that, ask your parents. If you have a family now, just wait a few minutes and you'll have grandkids! If you don't believe that, ask your grandparents! Okay, here's what you do: Bypass that little 34 'cuz in ten years it'll be too small anyway. Teenagers happen before you know it and they need "their space". Start looking now in the 40-ft range with two heads and more room to handle everybody. Going from one boat to another costs time and money. The money you can earn but time you can't, once it's gone, its gone forever. The time it takes to fix up the current boat and sell it isn't so much but on the bigger boat it is. The expense and hassle of changing boats is a lot (unless, maybe, you're in sales). Save your time and you wife's, start looking at the 40 footers before its too late!  

Maine Sail said: Having owned multiple Catalina's a 30, 310 and a 36, and having approx 40+ customers with Sabre's, I can say without a doubt there is little comparison in terms of construction quality between a Sabre and Catalina. Catalina's are fine boats but they are not in the same league as a Sabre overall build quality wise. Things such as screwed in bulkheads on a Catalina vs. tabbed & stick built (fiber glassed) bulkheads on the Sabre to teak and holly soles vs. bare fiberglass on the C-30 to a shoe box deck/hull joint on the C-30 vs. an overlapping joint on the Sabre. Balsa vs plywood coring. Lack of wood in the keel stub of the Sabre, Catalina smile very common vs. extremely rare on the Sabre. The list goes on. Nothing wrong with either boat, but there is no doubt the Sabre is built to a higher level. I know this because I crawl around the inner-workings of boats for a living.... All that said what matters when buying a used boat is maintenance history & condition, condition, condition.... Click to expand

Good luck for sure, we also considered just jumping to a brand new Jeanneau 440 at just under $400k, and the payments to go with it! Found the C310 and it was the right boat for the right time for us.  

John Nantz said: Here's a different tack for ya. You're looking at quality vs cost, your wife is looking at amenities, and the clock is ticking. Believe it or not, the clock ticks faster as time goes on and if you don't believe that, ask your parents. If you have a family now, just wait a few minutes and you'll have grandkids! If you don't believe that, ask your grandparents! Okay, here's what you do: Bypass that little 34 'cuz in ten years it'll be too small anyway. Teenagers happen before you know it and they need "their space". Start looking now in the 40-ft range with two heads and more room to handle everybody. Going from one boat to another costs time and money. The money you can earn but time you can't, once it's gone, its gone forever. The time it takes to fix up the current boat and sell it isn't so much but on the bigger boat it is. The expense and hassle of changing boats is a lot (unless, maybe, you're in sales). Save your time and you wife's, start looking at the 40 footers before its too late! Click to expand

Scandium said: But as you know it's hard to stop looking.. Click to expand

any opinions on sabres for "light offshore" sailing? Like I said for example Chesapeake to RI, Maine, bermuda or carribean? Are they strong enough? Is storage too limited below a certain lenght, say 38 ft?  

You are talking about a boat that could be from the 70's and 80's. Most certainly they were built strong enough to sail those waters. The question really is can you sail those waters. Are you a competent skipper. Will you select a weather window to accomplish the cruise safely? Will you select crew that can stand watch and allow you to catch some sleep safely or wake you if conditions warrant it? Will you select a boat that is in a condition to go in water you choose? Will you spend the time and money to refit a boat that could be 30 plus years old to prepare it for such a journey? From the sailboat data site. "As of 2012, Sabre ended production of sailing yachts though they have said it could be restored should the market improve". A 7 year old boat could be immaculate or was scrapped in last years hurricane and it is on the market for "very good price". SO it is less the boat and more the skipper. As the Skipper controls all the variables.  

Scandium said: "light offshore" Click to expand

jssailem said: This is a nebulas term. Not clear of the meaning. Can you please clarify what you mean? Click to expand

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Dear Readers

• Sailboat Reviews

The Sabre 28 is an above-average coastal cruiser that should appeal to a couple or small family.

The Sabre 28 was the smallest boat in the line produced by Sabre Yachts of South Casco, Maine for much of the company’s history. The production run of the 28 lasted 14 years, from 1972 to 1986.

The Sabre 28 was the only model produced by the company until 1977, when the Sabre 34 entered production. In 1979 the gap between the Sabre 28 and the 34 was filled with a 30-footer of a design very similar to that of her two sisters. In 1982, the Sabre 38 was introduced, and features both a standard and an aft-cabin layout. A 32 was added in 1984, a 36 in 1985, and a 42-footer in 1987. Along the way, the 28 acquired a ketch-rig option. The 28 was dropped at the same time the 42 was introduced.

All boats in the Sabre line are of the modern cruiser-racer type, with fin keel and skeg-hung spade rudder. With a 1981 base price of about $37,000, and an average delivered price in southern New England of about $40,000 without sails or electronics, the Sabre 28 was a relatively expensive 28′ boat.

Despite a fairly high initial cost, the Sabre 28 has proved to be a good investment for her owners. One owner responding to The Practical Sailor’s boatowners’ survey reported that he paid $14,900 for his boat in 1973. That same boat in 1981 was worth about $24,000. A Sabre 28 purchased in 1976 cost $22,000, and was worth about $29,000 in 1981. The collapse of market values in the ’90s is evident in the latest figures, however: a 1986 Sabre 28, which cost $48,900 new, is now worth only about $34,000. This is typical of recent trends, and does not reflect on the Sabre 28—indeed, it’s held more of its value than many boats.

Owners report that the primary motivation for purchasing the boat can be summed up in one word: quality. Sabre is quite conscious of their producing a high-quality boat. The boat attracts buyers willing to pay a little more than average for a boat that is better than average.

As with all boats that have been in production for a number of years, the design of the Sabre 28 has evolved and improved over the years. In particular, a number of minor changes were made in August, 1982, some of which are noted below. Therefore, the price of a used Sabre 28 may be a function of whether it has some of the more desirable features.

The Sabre 28 is conventionally modern in appearance. She has a modest concave sheer, straight raked stern, and short after overhang.

Construction

The hull of the Sabre 28 is a slightly heavier-than-average hand layup of mat and roving. Some roving print through is evident, but there are no visible hard spots in the hull. Gelcoat quality is excellent.

There are optional hull and deck colors besides the stock white on white. On an early Sabre 28 we examined, the red gelcoat had faded to a dull pink, and the boat was past due for painting. In general red hulls are more susceptible to fading.

The deck of the Sabre 28 is balsa-cored for stiffness, with plywood inserts at stress areas such as winch mountings. The hull-to-deck joint uses a fairly standard internal hull flange, butyl-bedded and through bolted on 6″ centers with stainless steel bolts. These bolts also serve to attach a vinyl rubrail and the teak toerail: The hull-to-deck joint is through bolted across the transom.

All deck hardware, including stanchions, pulpits, and cleats, is through bolted and backed with thick aluminum plates which serve to distribute load. The stem fitting is a well-finished aluminum casting.

Skin fittings are recessed flush with the hull surface. All underwater through hull openings are fitted with bronze Spartan seacocks. Spartan seacocks have a short, lipped hose tailpiece rather than the more typical long straight tailpiece of other seacocks.

This short tailpiece precludes double clamping of hoses. This single hose clamp on below-water fit tings is fine as long as the hose clamps are kept tight. We recommend that they be checked at regular intervals.

In general, construction details are among the best that we’ve seen on a production sailboat. All fillet bonding is absolutely neat. There are no rough fiberglass areas anywhere. All exposed interior fiberglass surfaces, such as bilges and the inside of lockers, are gelcoated or painted.

Although tiller steering is standard, about 90% of the boats were delivered with Edson pedestal wheel steerers equipped with Ritchie compasses. The wheel steering option has proven so popular that in 1976 the cockpit of the Sabre 28 was redesigned to accommodate the wheel without interfering with the seating arrangement. Access to the rudder stock for emergency steering is via a plastic plate in the cockpit sole. An emergency tiller is provided with wheel-steered boats.

The mast of the Sabre 25 is a straight section Awlgripped aluminum extrusion built by Rig-Rite. Internal halyards, internal clew outhaul, topping lift, and two-point jiffy reefing are standard, as is a transom-mounted ball-bearing mainsheet traveler. The mast is deck-stepped in an aluminum casting. In new boats, this mast step has been redesigned to incorporate attachment points for blocks, facilitating the leading of halyards aft to the cockpit. Halyard winches mounted on the cabin top are another popular option.

Mast compression is transferred to the hull structure by a teak compression column incorporated in the main bulkhead. Shroud chainplates are heavily through-bolted to the main bulkhead, which is solidly glassed to the hull.

Originally, the Sabre 28 was rigged with single upper and lower shrouds. In 1975 forward lower shrouds were added to reduce mast pumping under sail and vibration at the mooring. Mast vibration in high winds, even at anchor, is a common problem with deck-stepped masts. Not all older Sabre 28s have been retrofitted with the additional set of lower shrouds. If purchase of a pre-1975 model is contemplated, be sure to ascertain that the forward lower shrouds have been installed.

The ballast keel is an external lead casting, well faired to the hull. Keelboats are accessible in the bilge for periodic tightening.

Construction of the Sabre 28 is strong without being overly heavy. There is no evidence of hurrying to finish the job anywhere in the boat.

Handling Under Sail

With optional wheel steering, optional cockpit-led halyards, and optional self-tailing headsail sheet winches, the Sabre 28 can easily be handled by one or two people. The mainsheet is within easy reach of the helmsman. Unfortunately, his head is also within easy reach of the mainsheet when jibing, except on newer boats; the mainsheet was relocated to the cabin top in 1982.

With main chainplates set well inboard, the headsail sheeting base of the boat is quite narrow, particularly if the boat is equipped with the optional inboard genoa track in addition to the standard toerail-mounted genoa track, The sheeting base is, for example, almost a foot narrower than that of the Hunter 27. This allows the Sabre 28 to be reasonably close-winded. With her relatively small wetted surface and a big genoa, she will be fast in light air.

Unless the water in your cruising area is spread very thin, we suggest you look for the standard keel version rather than the shoal keel. The shoal keel presents a less efficient lateral plane for windward work.

Some attention will have to be paid to the size of headsail used. Owners report that, although the Sabre 28 more than holds her own with other boats of her size and type, she is not a particularly stiff boat. Owners consider her performance well above average, although her PHRF rating suggests only average performance compared to similar cruiserracers. Due to the off-center solid prop, the boat may be faster on one tack than the other, and owners who intend to race the Sabre 28 should experiment to see if this is the case.

Handling Under Power

Several different engines were used in the Sabre 28. Until 1975 all were equipped with the Atomic Four gasoline engine. In 1975 a 10 horsepower Volvo diesel was offered as an option. In 1978, both these engines were dropped, and the Volvo MD7A diesel became standard. The MD7A is a two cylinder engine rated at 13 horsepower. In 1981 it was replaced by the Westerbeke 13.

The propeller shaft on the right hand turning Atomic Four is offset to port. On the left hand turning Volvos, it is offset to starboard. On the earliest Sabre 28s the shaft was on centerline. This change in engines from right hand to left hand rotation means that replacement of engines in off-center located Atomic Four powered boats will be limited to either the Atomic Four gas engine or some other right hand turning engine. Otherwise there will be considerable compromise in handling characteristics under power.

Owners report that engine access on early Atomic Four equipped models is poor. In current Volvo-powered models, access for routine service is good. Some joinerwork disassembly—planned in, fortunately—is required for engine removal, Routine service is via doors and panels.

There is no oil sump under the engine. Access to the stuffing box, needed annually for repacking and adjustment, is poor. Engine instruments—a full bank, with no idiot lights —are mounted in the bridgedeck, with engine starting and stopping controls under the helmsman’s seat. While this may seem awkward at first, it does protect the always-vulnerable ignition switch from water. This is an unusual, but reasonable arrangement.

Owners consider the boat’s handling under power to be good. With her fin keel and spade rudder, she will turn in a tight circle. Owners report that any of the engines will drive the boat at or near “hull speed” under most conditions,

Deck Layout

In 1976, a foredeck anchor well was added to the Sabre 28. The well is large enough to hold adequate primary ground tackle for the boat. It has provision for securing the bitter end of the anchor rode in boats built since 1982. We would add an eyebolt or U-bolt to the well for this purpose if it is not already there.

The water tank vent is located in the anchor well. This is a rational location for an item whose position is commonly an afterthought. Frequently, tank vents are located in the topsides, just below the sheer, This can cause backsiphoning of salt water into fuel or freshwater tanks. We saw this occur on several boats—not Sabres—in the 1979 Marion-Bermuda race, which featured four days of slogging to windward in heavy air.

The Sabre 28 is one of the few boats we have seen that uses Skene bow chocks. Skene chocks effectively hold the anchor rode or mooring lines in the chocks, even if the boat sails around on her anchor. This is an important consideration in many modern boats, for the Sabre 28, like many modern sloops of moderate displacement, probably sails almost as many miles while anchored or moored as when underway.

Heavy teak handrails and a very effective molded-in nonskid surface facilitate movement on deck in a seaway. The side decks are of necessity narrow due to the wide cabin trunk.

The cockpit of the Sabre 28 is large and comfortable. It is as large a cockpit as we would consider safe for offshore sailing on a 28′ boat. With wheel steering the cockpit easily seats five.

Cockpit lockers deserve special comment. There are two molded-in recesses in the winch islands, handy for winch handles, sail stops, and other small items. There is a shallow lift-top locker under the port cockpit seat, a deeper locker under the helmsman’s seat, and a deep locker under the starboard seat.

The deep starboard locker is bulkheaded off from the bowels of the boat so that sails, fenders, and lines will not migrate to the depths of the bilge. This locker contains built-in holders for the companionway drop boards and emergency tiller, as well as a shelf arranged for line stowage. Although the lid to this locker is a little small for the easy removal of sails, it is one of the best designed cockpit lockers we have seen.

By comparison, the companionway is a bit of a disappointment. Although it is suitably narrow and has a good bridgedeck, the opening is sharply tapered, allowing removal of the drop boards by lifting them only about an inch.

The drop boards themselves are 1/2″ teak-faced plywood in early boats, solid teak in post-1982 models. The exposed edge grain of the plywood core will soon turn gray unless the boards are well varnished. Eventually they may delaminate. We believe that plywood should not be used where it will be subject to weathering. Frankly, the boards look a little cheap on a boat of this quality.

Newer boats have a transparent smoked plexiglass companionway hatch top. Older boats have fiberglass hatches. The plexiglass hatch allows a good deal of light below.

At night, when tied to the dock, it also allows people on the dock to stare into the main cabin. An often forgotten corollary to transparent hatches is that if they allow light below during the day, they allow it out at night. The glare of a white light belowdecks can wipe out the helmsman’s night vision. Not a common problem, admittedly, but a real one nonetheless.

The first impression of the Sabre 28 belowdecks is that she is roomy, neat, and well-finished. Headroom is 6′ under the main hatch, and an honest 5′ 11″ in the main cabin.

The forward cabin contains V-berths with a filler to form a double. The 30-gallon molded polyethylene water tank is located under the forward berths. There is a drawer and a bin under each berth.

With the forward hatch open, it is possible to stand and dress comfortably with the berth filler removed.

The head is full width and closes off from both the forward cabin and main cabin by doors. The Sabre 28 came standard with a 22-gallon holding tank. A Y-valve diverter was optional.

Despite a lot of teak bulkheads and trim, the main cabin is bright and attractive. There are substantial grab rails overhead. The port settee extends to form a double berth. With all berths filled, the Sabre 28 sleeps six. Frankly, six people on a 28′ boat is too many, even for a weekend. We would prefer an alternate four-berth interior arrangement that provides a larger galley. Some older Sabre 28s are equipped with such a layout.

A bulkhead-mounted fold-down cabin table seats four comfortably. It is secured in the folded position by a screw-type hatch dog, a good idea, since a rattling table can drive you to distraction.

At the after end of the main cabin, the galley is located to starboard, with a quarterberth to port. Galley storage is good, with four drawers and several lockers. The galley sink is located just off centerline, almost under the companionway. While this location is good for ensuring that the sink will drain on either tack, care must be taken going below when well heeled on the port tack to avoid stepping into the sink.

The galley stove is a recessed two-burner Kenyon alcohol stove. Stoves of this type, which have integral fuel tanks with the fuel fill located between the burners, present a potential fire hazard if the fuel tank is refilled before the burners have cooled adequately.

On pre-1982 boats, the icebox is well insulated with the exception of the top. Given the fact that Sabre has gone so far as to install an icebox pump to keep ice melt from smelling up the bilge, we were pleased to see them complete the otherwise well designed icebox in 1982 by insulating the top and lids.

Wiring, plumbing—in general, all finishing details—are well designed and neatly finished. The location of the main electrical panel next to the companionway, where it is vulnerable to spray, is an exception to the generally well thought out installations.

Four opening ports are standard; an additional hatch over the main cabin is optional. We recommend this additional ventilation if the boat is to be used in a warm climate. The dorade box over the head is the only provision for foul-weather ventilation.

Conclusions

The Sabre 28 is an attractive, well-built, well-finished boat. Although her price is above average, construction and finish details are also well above average for a stock boat. Despite her modern underbody, she is a conservative design, conservatively built.

The Sabre 28 is neither an all-out racer, nor an allout cruiser. She is a good compromise boat, strong enough to cruise with confidence and fast enough not to embarrass.

She is good-looking in a modern way, without being so modern as to be trendy. She will probably not appeal to the hard-core traditionalist, nor to the flat-out modernist. She appeals mostly as a well turned out coastal cruiser for the couple or a small family. The Sabre 25 may be no Swan, but she’s a long way from an ugly duckling.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Appreciate your in depth comments on this yacht. I raced aboard one on Long Island Sound in the mid 70’s. I echo your sentiments and conclusion.

Is the motor cruiser version safe to use in the offshore UK waters?

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Sabre Yachts For Sale

Sabre Yachts are perhaps one of the most well-known downeast-style boats on the water today. The classic Maine "Lobster Boat" as they were once called, are designed to handle choppy seas while keeping the captain and guests comfortable to enjoy their day on the water.

Learn More About Sabre And Find Your Next Boat

Since 1970, Sabre Yachts have been crafting some of the most luxurious downeast yachts in the industry. Based in Maine, the company’s founder, Roger Hewson, set out to build the finest 28-ft sailing yacht, which enabled him to produce 29-45 foot sailboat models for the next forty years.   In 1989, the “Fast Trawler” was introduced and made the Sabre name become a prominent one. In 1995, Sabre then obtained North End Composites of Rockland, Maine – a large manufacturer of marine molds and fiberglass parts. Having this relationship allowed Sabre to produce powerboat models from 38 to 66 feet with Salon Express and Fly Bridge variations using up-to-date technology and production line methods. Now Sabre acquires two boat yards, one in Raymond and the other in Rockland connected by their sister company, Back Cove Yachts. 

List Of Sabre Yachts On The Brokerage Market

• Page 1 of 5

Sabre and Back Cove employ what they call “boat parents” – these are employees who follow each boat through the manufacturing process and act as the eyes of the consumer. In order to correspond to this process, all boats are given a 600-point inspection over six separate stages, which ends with a twelve-page report to be inspected. This cycle led to the Sabre name having a reputation – a company that values its product to the most extremes. Throughout the years Sabre has become a well-known and established name by listening carefully to its owners and dealerships. Continuously refining their product, Sabre has taken pride in designing and manufacturing boats that make sense to boaters. Offering cruise speeds of 25 knots with top end speeds in excess of 30 knots, Sabre models have established themselves to have top quality features and innovative designs.

From her functional foredeck to her top-of-the-line deck hardware, the 66 Dirigo is the largest and most luxurious Sabre motor yacht to date. Debuting in 2015, the 66 is the first American-built Downeast-style motor yacht of this size. Making great impressions for any boat goer, the 66’ offers a spacious and comfortable cockpit that is suitable for any social gathering. Entering the saloon via two glass sliding doors with stainless frames, you will see an unusually open floorplan with light shining in from the glass doors aft, three windshield panes forward, and the super-sized skylight. Cherry cabinets and fine granite countertops are placed throughout making every detail catch the eye. The helm deck is elevated with a three-person L-shaped settee, which is made with classic blue leather. Below deck in the accommodations, you can find a surprising amount of standing headroom within the midships master and a VIP stateroom with a walk-around queen bed. Underway, this model powers along, smooth and strong making it a lovely ride in any condition. Crafted by boat builders with decades of experience, her systems are modern and functional making this model one of the best from Sabre Yachts.

54 Flybridge

Sophisticated and welcoming, the 54’ Flybridge was created to offer not just a boat, but also a truly luxurious experience. Completed with a L-shaped settee and captain and mates seating, the 54’ creates an enhanced cruising experience for any boat owner. Featuring three berths, two heads, a half-up galley, and a spacious salon – this model is perfect for those looking for that weekend getaway or cocktail cruise with some friends. The cherry joinery in the salon glows from the effects of the outdoors coming in. Among the salon sits the galley a few steps down, which features clean lines and top appliances that can be seen with the light pouring through. Plenty of stowage can be found in the forward stateroom, with an opening overhead hatch and an ensuite head with a circular door. Not only are the accommodations appealing, but the engine room features gelcoat interior and diamond plate sole. Easily accessible, the engine room displays state-of-the-art equipment, and most notably has low noise. This model is no stranger to those who appreciate high standards for a downeast-style boat and will provide a smooth, enjoyable cruise.

48 Salon Express

An ideal combination of evolution and revolution, the 48 Salon Express is most notably known for its exterior profile that gives credit to her performance. Cruising at 27 knots with an open throttle, the 48 can even reach up to 32 knots comfortably. Low sound levels make this model easily enjoyable while cruising, while the pod drives and joystick controls give every boat operator confidence to dock her in any condition. Designed with light and space in mind, the two cabin, two head layout is supplemented by a utility space forward of the engine room that can be used as additional crew space. The galley-down layout allows guests to enjoy preparing food and drink for any gathering. The cockpit also offers a welcoming surprise by displaying a one-level arrangement that works extremely well for entertaining and allows for a seamless transition from the swim platform to the salon. Additionally, the 48’ does a superb job in creating the feeling of openness by including an optional sunroof that can be opened with the aft window lowered – offering plenty of breeze flying and saltwater aroma from the outdoors. Every detail included works perfectly creating a timeless, elegant, yet contemporary design.

42 Salon Express

Established as being an excellent day boat and coastal cruiser, the Sabre 42’ offers panoramic views and was built with comfort in mind. The Sabre Salon keeps the spacious layout in the interior and on deck – giving owners comfort, luxury and ample options for entertaining and socializing. Surrounded with windows, the salon features cherry wood and fiberglass walls throughout the main cabin, which is exposed with light through the triple-paned windshield and large side windows to the aft. From the captain’s chair, there is a 360-degree visibility making it easily manageable and enjoyable. The 42’s aft deck will not disappoint with its L-shaped settee that includes an oval table and two-person bench settee that can seat up to six guests. Storage space can be accessed through the galley, that includes stainless drawers and granite counter tops. Below deck, you can be transported into the world of traditional New England craftsmanship and sensible design. Satin varnish and quality woodwork raises the level of luxury throughout the cabin. This model begs its owners to enjoy the cruising life as well as appreciate those fine details that Sabre is known for.

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Sabre Yachts

Sabre Yachts has been crafting luxury yachts since 1970 when the company’s founder set out to build the finest possible 28-foot sailing yacht using production line methods and fiberglass technology. In 1989, Sabre debuted the Sabreline 36 “Fast Trawler,” a tri-cabin motoryacht with the spaciousness and comfort of the trawler design but with substantially better performance than traditional trawler hulls. This launched Sabre’s industry-leading motor yacht range. Today, Sabre produces powerboat models from 38 to 58 feet in length with Salon Express and Fly Bridge variations. All current Sabre models are constructed using their state-of-the-art, VIP resin infusion technology. Sabre’s boat building yards are located in both Raymond and Rockland, Maine.

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The Verdict III 2002 | 45' Sabre 452 Sailboat for Sale

45' (13.72m) 452 - the verdict iii.

Introducing a well maintained 2002 Sabre 452 Racer/Cruiser, equipped with premium features and upgrades that make it a standout cruiser.

• Greenport New York United States
• Fiberglass Hull

$ 329,000 USD

€ 295,783 euros $ 447,224 cad.

• EMAIL BROKER

Description

 This vessel boasts a comprehensive sail inventory, including a recently purchased main sail with a stack pack in excellent condition, a 40% A1 jib also in pristine condition, and a stay sail that has never been used. The cruising spinnaker has also seen minimal use, having been deployed less than half a dozen times. While the boat includes a full spinnaker package, the spinnaker itself was never purchased, and the pole was unfortunately lost in the yard.

The owner's forward cabin configuration offers extended length and comes with two full closets, providing ample storage for long voyages. The cabin also features an electric forward head for added convenience. The rigging includes a single backstay with an adjuster, which, although requiring additional reinforcement, offers ease of adjustment.

On deck, the sailboat is equipped with a single electric winch on the cabin top, simplifying the raising of the mainsail and furling of the jib. The adjustable jib cars are a noteworthy feature of the original spinnaker package. The vessel is well-equipped with a total of six winches, ensuring smooth sailing in various conditions.

The engine has been upgraded with two alternators—one dedicated to the house batteries and the other to the engine—addressing a design limitation common in most 452s. The engine compartment was reconfigured to accommodate this enhancement, providing added reliability and efficiency during extended cruises.

This 2002 Sabre 452 sailboat is a rare find, offering a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and thoughtful upgrades that cater to the discerning sailor. Whether planning coastal cruising or offshore adventures, this vessel is fully equipped to meet your needs.

LOA: 45' " (13.72 Meters)

Type: Sail - Used

Beam: 14' 1"

Bridge Clearance: ' "

Draft Max: 6' 9"

Draft Min: ' "

Maximum Speed: Knots

Cruise Speed: Knots

• Fuel Type: Diesel

Hull Material: Fiberglass

Fuel Tank: 70 Gallons (264.98 Liters)

Fresh Water: 192 Gallons (726.8 Liters)

Holding Tank: 46 Gallons (174.13 Liters)

Full Details

Construction.

• Resin infused Airex closed cell PVC foam cored, fiberglass of alternate layers of mat knitted biaxial roving
• Internal hull to deck joint
• Bulkheads, berth faces, shelves and floor stringers laminated to hull provide integral structural strength
• Stainless steel chainplates thru-bolted to bulkheads bonded to the hull
• All exterior teak stripped to wood in 2022 

HULL COLOR:

• Deep storage locker to port
• (2) Lazarette lockers
• Cockpit locker to starboard with Lewmar hatch to the aft cabin
• Solid teak cup holder on pedestal
• (2) Cockpit scuppers to sea valves
• Stove fuel storage locker in the port side deck
• Transom with folding swim ladder with teak treads
• Teak folding cockpit table
• Magma rail-mounted grill
• Single unit, vacuum bagged with Airex core for and HD core in high-stress areas
• Deck bonded to the hull using stainless steel thru-bolts every 8′′ (4” in way of the genoa tracks), with aircraft-style locknuts
• Polyurethane sealant used in the hull/deck joint

DECK COLOR:

• Non-skid color white
• Two-stateroom layout with Owner suite forward
• 6'6" headroom in main and aft cabins, 6'4" in forward cabin
• Varnished American red cherry interior
• Varnished teak and holly cabin sole
• White Leather upholstery in main cabin. Salon “Lichen”; fwd and aft cabins “Patina”
• Corian counters in galley color “Prairie”
• LED lighting 

Accommodations

LAYOUT (from forward):

Larger-than-standard Owner’s cabin forward with V-berth, overhead hatch, dressing seat, two large cedar-lined hanging lockers and port and starboard bureaus with locker storage above. The en-suite head is aft with a separate shower stall, Corian countertops, louvered locker storage and a Vacu-flush toilet.

The main salon is spacious with a U-shaped settee and dining table to port and a wider-than-standard settee to starboard. Upholstery is leather. Storage is below and behind seating, as well as in lockers. Wine cabinet. Excellent use of natural light via overhead hatch, opening ports, coach roof portlights and cherry-trimmed white headliner. Custom SABRE tool drawer.

Aft to port is the L-shaped galley with large refrigeration capacity and locker storage.

To starboard is a forward-facing navigation station with opening chart table and three drawers.

Aft of the nav station to starboard is a double-berth guest cabin. The aft head has a private door into the aft cabin as well as a door to the salon.

Hella cabin fans, ventilation and ample lighting throughout.

• Corian counter tops with twin stainless steel sinks 
• Force10 3-burner propane stove with oven 
• Microwave oven  
• Sea Frost fridge & freezer with top-opening lids and front door, shore assist or engine driven 
• Drawer and locker storage 
• Trash bin under sink 
• Salt and fresh water foot pumps at sink 

Deck Equipment

• Rocna anchor on bow roller, with chain  
• Additional chain/rope anchor rode w/separate roller in anchor locker 
• Fortress FX 55 anchor and 45 lb CQR 
• Lewmar electric windlass with deck switches, remote and counter 
• Deck hatches and ports w/interior trim and insect screens 
• (2)Stainless steel dorade cowl vents w/stainless steel guards 
• Custom stainless steel companionway handrail 
• Custom stainless steel anchor roller with integrated chocks 
• Custom stainless steel mast collar 
• 12" docking cleats fwd, amidships and aft 
• Custom stainless chocks integrated into toe rail 
• Stainless steel granny bars at mast 
• (2) Wichard folding padeyes for harness attachment in cockpit 
• 30" Heavy duty stainless steel stanchions 
• Double lifelines 
• 1.25" and 1" tubing on bow and stern pulpits 
• 3" Varnished teak toe rails 
• Custom stainless steel opening ports in main and fwd cabins 
• Positive locking mechanism for companionway drop boards 
• Outboard crane 
• Teak laid combing in cockpit Additional screened companionway drop boards 
• Dodger w/elk hide grabrail  
• Bimini (with connector to dodger) 
• Wheel/pedestal cover 
• Cockpit cushions 
• Asymmetric spinnaker 
• 140% Doyle main sail 

Rig and Sail Handling

• Tapered Hall Spars aluminum triple-spreader mast 
• Hall QuikVang  
• Removable inner forestay   
• Running backstays 
• Stainless steel rod headstay 
• Flagpole on stern rail 
• MPS spinnaker halyard led aft to stopper 
• Second genoa halyard led aft to stopper 
• Main halyard 
• Genoa halyard 
• Navtec rod rigging 
•  Navtec hydraulic adjuster 
• Lewmar adjustable genoa car tracks 
• Lewmar 64 primary winches 
• (2) Lewmar 50 main halyard winches port and starboard on cabin top 
• Harken Big Boat mainsheet traveler 
• Spinnaker and second set of genoa sheets 
• Jibe preventer lines rigged to boom 

Engine and Mechanical

• Yanmar 4JH3-TBE 75hp diesel engine approx. 2962hrs 
• Dual Racor fuel filter turbo water separators 
• Maxprop 3-blade feathering propeller 
• PSS dripless shaft seal 

Tankage and Plumbing

•  Both holding tanks with macerator pumps 
• Water tanks level gauge 
• Sea Land Vac-U-Flush head in forward head compartments  
• Shore-water inlet to pressure water system 
• Hot and cold cockpit shower 
• Oversized automatic electric bilge pump 
• Manual cockpit mounted bilge pump 
• Floscan fuel monitoring system in cockpit 
• Fuel: 100 US Gallons main tank 
• Holding: 45 US Gallons total for two tanks 
• Macerators in both heads; legal offshore Y-valve direct discharge in forward head 
• (2) 4D Lifeline AGM house batteries 
• (1) Group 31 engine start battery  
• Recessed overhead lighting with dimmer switch 
• Red courtesy lights for night running 
• Hella cabin fans 
• Victron battery monitor 
• Heart Freedom 25 2500 watt inverter/charger 
• 12 volt Balmar 100 amp alternator for house batteries 
• 12 volt80 amp alternator for engine start battery 
• Twin 30A 110 volt shore power inlets with 50 foot cords 
• 12 volt DC outlet w/breaker at chart table 

Navigation and Communication Electronics

• (2) Raymarine AXIOM GPS/radar plotters:(1) at helm and (1)nav station w/ WiFi access on tablet device for RayRemote or RayView access 
• AIS and Sirius WX capable 
• Raymarine i70 sailing instruments 
• Raymarine ST7001+ autopilot w/control at helm 
• IcomVHF radio at nav station 
• VHF interfaced with GPS for Mayday function 
• Icom 802 SSB Radio at Nav w/ AT140 Antenna Tuner 
• C.A.R.D installed at nav station 
• Ritchie 6" compass in pedestal 
• Navigation lights 
• Tri-color masthead light 
• Steaming and foredeck lights 
• Uber cell signal booster 
• CD/AM/FM Radio w/ speakers 

Safety Equipment

• Life jackets
• Fire extinguishers 
• Rule 110v 1800 gph portable bilge pump  

Extra Information and Features per Owner

Sail Inventory

• Main Sail :Stack pack
• Recent purchase
• Excellent condition
• 40% A1 Jib :Recent purchase
• Stay Sail :Never used
• Cruising Spinnaker :Used less than half a dozen times
• Note: Full spinnaker package available, though the spinnaker was never purchased
• Missing pole (lost in the yard)

Cabin and Deck Features

• Owner's Forward Cabin Configuration :Extended length
• Two full closets
• Electric Forward Head
• Single Backstay with Adjuster :Requires extra reinforcement
• Easier to adjust

Deck Hardware and Rigging

• Single Electric Winch on Cabin Top :Raises the mainsail
• Used to furl the jib
• Adjustable Jib Cars :Feature of the spinnaker package
• Total of Six Winches

Engine and Electrical System

• Engine with Two Alternators :One for house batteries
• One for the engine
• Engine compartment reconfigured to accommodate both alternators
• Note : Most 452’s have only one alternator due to a design limitation

The company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change or withdrawal without notice.

Listing MLS by Yachtr.com

• Engine Make: Yanmar
• Engine Model: 4JH3-TBE
• Engine Year:
• Engine Type: Inboard
• Drive Type:
• Power HP: 75.00
• Hours: 2962.00

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Contact Broker

For more information about this yacht please contact Curtis Stokes and Associates, Inc. We look forward to working with you!

Want more information about this yacht?

Curtis stokes & associates.

Suite168 --> Fort Lauderdale, FL Phone: 1-954-684-0218 Toll Free: 1-855-266-5676 Fax: 1-954-807-1445 Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.curtisstokes.net

Curtis Stokes and Associates, Inc. is a yacht brokerage firm consisting of nine offices and fifty brokers throughout the United States offering worldwide marketing, buyer brokerage services and yacht charters. We also specialize in marketing and selling Great Loop capable yachts and boats.

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