2005 Sabre 42 HT Express

By: Mike Gridley

As Down East-style motor yachts have grown in popularity in recent years, models from various builders are now found on the water from the East Coast to the Great Lakes. After several years of production, fine examples of these cruisers are showing up on the used boat market.

SabreYachts have been building boats in Maine since the ’70s and they pride themselves on their handcrafted quality and attention to detail.Our test boat, a

2005 Sabre 42 Back Cove HT Express, is a prime example of this.As it holds true to Down East-style yacht traditions, it is a perfect blend of ingredients that has made Sabre the success it is today.

The exterior design of the Sabre is a blend of both traditional and modern elements that sets this boat apart from many in her class. While the design of the coach house and bow with their teak accents may be traditional, the softer lines and angles found in the cockpit along with the stainless steel hardware are not.

The moulded steps,wide side decks and high railings ensure a safe passage forward to handle lines and ground tackle.As befits a serious cruising boat, Sabre Yachts has outfitted the 42 with a windlass, twin anchor rollers and oversized cleats.

Boarding from high or low docks is easy from either the side decks or swim platform. The cockpit is spacious and uncluttered since all gear can be hidden away in the three in-deck storage lockers. The moulded-in, rear-facing seats with removable Sunbrella cushions are a nice touch.

A key feature of the 42 HardTop Express is the helm deck, which not only provides for expanded living space under the hardtop but also provides an unobstructed view all around for the Captain and crew due to its design and layout it. This will prove especially convenient when manoeuvring in tight quarters.

With the aft canvas removed, the helm deck will be a real enjoyment on those glorious summer days. The opening centre windshield, large sliding windows and overhead hatch will keep the breezes flowing through.

An extra on the 2005 was the optional teak sole in the helm deck. For relaxing and entertaining, the helm deck features a large L-shaped settee to port with a high-low table for dining and a built-in tub chair and refreshment centre to starboard.

The multi-adjustable Stidd helm seats on this boat were an upgrade, sure to be appreciated by a new owner. The helm is nicely laid out with the navigation gear in the upper binnacle and the LCDs for the twin CAT diesels front and centre. Servicing any of the electronics or electrics down the road will be easy since the entire helm tilts forward for access.

Engine access is through the helm deck sole.Once down below, there is plenty of room around the Optional C9 Caterpillar diesels for servicing the engines and systems. Heading below, you’ll find a well-finished and appealing space, with cherry cabinets and teak and holly sole.The L-shaped galley, which is located immediately to port, features a stainless steel sink, electric cooktop, under-counter refrigerator and ample cabinetry

To starboard is the guest cabin with a settee that converts to a double berth. The single head has a separate shower stall and a one-piece fibreglass mould that incorporates the vanity, allowing for quick cleaning. Forward, the master stateroom includes an island queen berth with large storage drawers in the base, as well as plenty of additional storage in the cabinets and hanging locker.

The 42 HardTop Express has a modified deep-V hull that performs well, rising smoothly on plane and cruising comfortably between 20 and 25 mph.Top speed was an impressive 35 mph with the 503-hp C9 CATs.

As can be expected with this Down Easter, handling was excellent and confident. The lake was calm on this particular test day, but it was clear the Sabre could handle everything from light chop to twoto three-footers. Should the conditions turn sour, the extended hard top provides plenty of room for those seeking shelter without having to go below deck.

Down East-style yachts are truly a unique combination of design and function, offering both elegant accommodations and efficient cruising. With models like the Sabre 42 HardTop Express coming on the used market, they are now

somewhat more attainable.

TEST BOAT ENGINE
Twin C9 Caterpillar Diesels, inline,
six-cylinder, 8.8 L, 538ci,
Turbo
ACCELERATION
(mph / sec)
N/A
TOP SPEED (rpm / mph)
2510 / 35.1
CRUISING SPEED
(rpm / mph)
1800 / 21.0 ; 2000 / 26.1