The Sabre 36 is on our shortlist, along with other boats that fit into the Downeast flybridge or fast trawler category. Aft cabin types are on the table as well, but not necessary. We like the sexiness and space of the flybridge Downeast yet also the form and function of the aft cabin.
What I would like to discuss is the seaworthiness (and other issues) of the Sabre 36. I have heard both amazing things about them, and then I have had a few people (mind you they were brokers listing a boat of a different make) tell me the Sabre 36's are "terrible sea boats". That said, I recognize that there may have been design changes throughout the model years that may have resulted in improved sea-going qualities. I read on one thread hear that a member chartered a Sabre (42, IIRC) and found the ride to be uncomfortable. As I stated in my introduction thread, homeport would be Clarkston or Tri-Cities, WA with the Snake and Columbia Rivers our primary theatre with the Washington coast and Puget Sound our primary destinations. With that in mind, the 8kt efficiency of the Sabre 36 is great for cruising between the 8 sets of locks (20-25 miles between each) with the 16-knot speed ideal for longer runs. WOT performance (24kts) would be "nice to have when we need it or want it".
I'm curious what others have found with the Sabre 36, which model year and cabin configuration and receive general feedback on the boat. Comments from any subject matter experts on the improvements in the design over the years would be great as well.
Another point I have read elsewhere is that when equipped with Detroits, the boats have been known to have trouble reaching plane or published speeds/performance. What engines are the ideal choice given the options? I have read the Real World Performance Thread on this boat.
I have consistently read that Sabres are well-built. The ride quality in various sea-states and other "buyer beware" items are what I am seeking here. By all means, I welcome alternative makes and models...such as the GB Eastbay 40 flybridge, etc...
Thank you!
What I would like to discuss is the seaworthiness (and other issues) of the Sabre 36. I have heard both amazing things about them, and then I have had a few people (mind you they were brokers listing a boat of a different make) tell me the Sabre 36's are "terrible sea boats". That said, I recognize that there may have been design changes throughout the model years that may have resulted in improved sea-going qualities. I read on one thread hear that a member chartered a Sabre (42, IIRC) and found the ride to be uncomfortable. As I stated in my introduction thread, homeport would be Clarkston or Tri-Cities, WA with the Snake and Columbia Rivers our primary theatre with the Washington coast and Puget Sound our primary destinations. With that in mind, the 8kt efficiency of the Sabre 36 is great for cruising between the 8 sets of locks (20-25 miles between each) with the 16-knot speed ideal for longer runs. WOT performance (24kts) would be "nice to have when we need it or want it".
I'm curious what others have found with the Sabre 36, which model year and cabin configuration and receive general feedback on the boat. Comments from any subject matter experts on the improvements in the design over the years would be great as well.
Another point I have read elsewhere is that when equipped with Detroits, the boats have been known to have trouble reaching plane or published speeds/performance. What engines are the ideal choice given the options? I have read the Real World Performance Thread on this boat.
I have consistently read that Sabres are well-built. The ride quality in various sea-states and other "buyer beware" items are what I am seeking here. By all means, I welcome alternative makes and models...such as the GB Eastbay 40 flybridge, etc...
Thank you!