Sabre 42 Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Sabre 42 in the late 1980s reflects Roger Hewson's design philosophy, which prioritized a broader focus than pure racing, aiming to combine performance with comfortable cruising capabilities. This approach was characteristic of the era's racer-cruiser trend. Sabre Yachts, founded by Hewson in 1970, had already established itself as a builder committed to "yacht-quality level of fit-and-finish," evident in their handcrafted joinery and robust fiberglass construction process. The Sabre 42, built with a solid fiberglass hull and deck, exemplifies this dedication to enduring quality. During its production run, a notable variation existed: a Keel/Centerboard (CB) version was available, which featured a shallower draft with the board up and a deeper draft with the board down, alongside slightly adjusted displacement and ballast figures compared to the fixed-keel model.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Sabre 42 is characterized by a design that balances performance with stability. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 17.13, the Sabre 42 exhibits moderate performance characteristics, suggesting it is well-suited for a variety of wind conditions without being overly sensitive in light air or demanding in heavy air. Its Ballast to Displacement Ratio (B/D) of around 0.41 indicates good stiffness and stability, enabling the boat to stand up to a breeze and provide a comfortable motion offshore. The Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of approximately 213.46 places the Sabre 42 in the category of a moderate to heavy cruiser, further affirming its stable and solid feel on the water. Owners and reviewers consistently praise the Sabre 42 for its superb handling and ease of sailing. Its rig, which features a relatively small headsail and a large main, contributes to its balanced feel and general manageability in different sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom data is limited, the Sabre 42 is noted for its thoughtful interior design, maximizing the available space within its 42-foot length. The boat typically features a two-cabin layout and is designed to comfortably sleep up to seven people. Reviewers have highlighted the "beautiful spaces" achieved in its design, indicative of Sabre's attention to interior aesthetics and functionality. A common arrangement includes an L-shaped galley positioned immediately to port, offering practical space for meal preparation. Throughout the interior, ample handholds are strategically placed to ensure safety and ease of movement while underway. The overall finish quality and material use, consistent with Sabre's reputation, typically feature well-executed joinery and durable surfaces, providing a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing cruising environment.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Sabre 42 generally hold a positive view of the vessel, frequently praising its robust construction and high-quality build. The boat is consistently recognized as a popular cruising sailboat with features that appeal to couples and families alike. Discussions among owners often highlight the inherent quality associated with Sabre Yachts, noting the brand's commitment to solid construction. While specific common problems are not widely reported, general sentiments suggest that the Sabre 42 offers a reliable and enjoyable sailing experience. Owners appreciate the boat's design and its ability to provide a comfortable cruising platform combined with capable sailing performance.