Who hosts a superior BBQ?
by John Curnow, Global Editor, Powerboat.World 24 Sep 15:00 PDT
Stunning Sabre 51 Salon Express – notice the increased glass area of the Pilothouse © Sabre Yachts
Keep that in mind. We will return to it, as this narrative fits perfectly within our area of expertise. Sabre is among a select few boat manufacturers that began with yachts (sailboats) before expanding into motor yachts. Their approach combines meticulous attention to detail, an everlasting appreciation for aesthetics, and practicality, which enables them to navigate blue waters without fear. They aptly describe this combination as ‘Nautical Sensibility’.
Sabre was an early adopter of vac-bagging techniques to maintain minimal weight while maximizing strength—this began about 15 years ago. They also opted to use only vinylester resin for all structural components, despite the higher costs, due to its superior water resistance. Efficiency has always been part of the brand’s philosophy, as Sabre embraced Volvo-Penta’s IPS technology early in their journey. Currently, they deliver approximately 50 vessels each year to a discerning and precise market.
Our good friend Jed Elderkin, an American-Australian (or is it Australian-American?) from E Marine, is equally enthusiastic about Sabre. So much so, he became their dealer in Australia and for their sister brand, Back Cove.
Elderkin prefers not to compare Sabre to any car brands. I, however, have no issue doing so, and I think of Packard for its solid engineering, Studebaker for its performance-based focus, and Duesenberg for when quality is the only consideration. If you understand this, you surely appreciate Sabre. It’s quite straightforward. You won’t need to add much to a Sabre—they’ve got you covered.
Still skeptical? Consider this: the cove line molded into the topsides is adorned with 22-karat gold leaf. Does that impress you? It certainly impresses me…
A native Mainer, known locally as a Downeaster, Elderkin remarked, “Boating here is, of course, seasonal due to harsh winters. The waterways can experience calm or significant conditions, reflecting the ‘express’ nature of these boats.”
“Maine’s coastal conditions feature fjords and places like Cape Cod, which can be perilous, making the modified V hull and enclosed pilothouse of a Sabre ideal for handling these challenges, offering a notably American performance level. The US market favors speed, with targets of over 32 knots.”
“The single-level layout complements such activities, alongside a spacious aft cockpit suited for entertaining, and the design draws heavily from heritage. Quality is paramount, which is why solid teak cap rails are standard,” noted Elderkin.
New but consistent
The new 51SE (Salon Express) is the larger sibling to the acclaimed 48SE (with 200 units delivered so far). It features a slightly reversed transom and raked prow instead of a plumb bow, along with an impressive 16 degrees of deadrise at the stern for superb ride and seakeeping abilities. They are built to CE Category B (Offshore), allowing access to almost any destination with these beauties.
Departure from tradition is not a priority for Sabre. Instead, they embrace evolution while honoring tradition. This was distinctly communicated during a recent conversation with Sabre’s Kevin Burns, VP of Design and Product Development.
Noteworthy advancements include the number of televisions, the Fusion sound system, and boat connectivity options for onshore monitoring. A company stuck in a bygone era wouldn’t consider or endorse such features.
In the new 51SE, the VIP suite is positioned forward, while the Master cabin runs side to side amidships. The expansive galley and pantry are on the accommodation deck, flooded with light thanks to numerous ports and the stairwell. There’s no option to reduce this space upstairs, where it would be cramped. Instead, there is a console at the back of the salon equipped with a fridge, icemaker, trash bin, and sink.
You’ve been holding your breath; here’s the answer!
Now the cockpit features both forward and rearward-facing seats that are exceptional, particularly the latter, which are undoubtedly the prime real estate onboard. Unfortunately, this brings us to our headline. The optional BBQ takes the place of the port rear-facing seats. As Elderkin asserts, “I don’t think anyone does BBQs like Australians!”
Thus, on the starboard side, a removable electric BBQ can be mounted outboard to dispense its bounty and stored in the lazarette, whose hatch is conveniently beneath your feet. These can attach to rod holders or existing grab rails. By placing the BBQ here, you avoid splattering the saloon doors or obstructing movement for those onboard or accessing the hydraulically operated swim platform. Go Aussies, right?!
Remember, at anchor, the best cockpit seats face rearward for an unobstructed view.
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and hull geometry are optimized for IPS (accessed via a large hatch in the cockpit). There’s no shaft drive option, as that would interfere with performance reliability and accommodation design. Consistent speeds exceeding 30 knots are achieved with Volvo-Penta’s 7.7l D8 engines that produce 600hp each, providing high efficiency offshore. (P.S. Don’t bother searching for bigger engines. It’s not happening.)
Burns stated, “It results in under a US Gallon per nautical mile per engine. Roughly 3l/nm per engine. Knowing your fuel consumption at around 27 knots, regardless of wind or weather, ties back into that essential nautical sensibility we discussed. Our baseline is generally around a 300 nautical mile range with a 10% reserve.”
So the new 51SE is genuinely just that—entirely new. The pilothouse is sleeker and even lighter with larger windows, while familiar favorites like the pilot’s door remain, a real advantage for short-handed operations. Activate the Dynamic Positioning System, and you can handle your own fenders and lines.
Additionally, the coachhouse roof has more overhang, and various options exist for increased fore and aft coverage. The optional cockpit SureShade (electrically retractable) suits the 51SE, as does the manually deployed MakeFast shade system utilizing the same carbon fiber poles and hardware as the foredeck shade option.
The essence of Sabre
This manufacturer creates legacy boats. What does that entail? They’ve gained insights over the years.
Sabre can incorporate your color gelcoat into the mold. The steps will always be appropriately-sized, grab rails will be strategically placed, drawers will glide smoothly and secure properly, and you won’t bump your knees against anything. This occurs when the builders understand practicalities or listen to customer feedback about needs.
Sabre played a pivotal role in establishing the niche, which is evident throughout the vessel. Their historical significance in this thriving sector makes Sabre owners direct beneficiaries.
Burns added, “We regard ourselves as responsible to our customers, ensuring we validate advancements in our field through our perspective, ensuring we deliver on these concepts thoroughly. The windows serve more than a styling purpose; they are practical solutions to enhancing visibility and sunlight access inside the boat.”
“All these positive features—including the side door you mentioned—granted immediate access to the side and fore decks during docking and maneuvering. While they fulfill a functional purpose, we approach them with both aesthetic consideration and the engineering skepticism we’ve upheld over the years.”
“Another pertinent example is the traditional sheer line of our vessels. While many perceive it as an aesthetic choice, it reflects a practical evolution for transitioning smoothly between the bow and transom freeboard. Both aspects arise from pragmatic considerations regarding desired hull shapes, making that sheer line a beautifully elegant curve bridging the boat’s pointed and blunt ends.”
Did someone just mention PT Boat?
“We fixate on these details, which some may overlook, yet there’s a delicate balance we maintain in terms of proportion, aesthetics, and practicality. We engage in lengthy discussions about bow rakes and similar topics, taking this matter very seriously. At heart, we are traditional designers and builders who obsess over these nuances.”
These discussions also include considerations about whether to feature loop rails on the swim platform, but Sabre boats will always be equipped with ample grab rails, and bulwarks designed with children and pets in mind—this reflects a genuine commitment to how people enjoy ‘Sabreing’. A true boat for genuine boat enthusiasts.
Clearly communicated
Earlier, we referenced the long galley (distinct from a Long Island galley, boom, boom!), but its length is integral to the very essence of the boat. Indeed, it resembles more of a strip than an island, earning the nickname ‘The Coast of Maine’ due to its extended length.
Jokes aside, it ensures an atmosphere that is remarkably bright due to the stairwell, four head-height opening ports, and two large through-hull windows. The clever design encompasses the galley area as well as what can truly be considered a Butler’s Pantry. It features a traditional workspace alongside additional countertop space for mixers, toasters, blenders, and of course, a coffee maker.
The pantry is also furnished with refrigerator drawers and a convection/microwave unit in the aft bulkhead, providing abundant storage in the outboard cabinets. This layout minimizes noise near the Master Stateroom door, while also serving as a transition when accessing the third cabin and/or utility room housing the washer/dryer.
This design proves useful, allowing you to store foldable bikes without bumping into items or individuals, and easily transporting supplies below without cluttering couches or the floor. If you’re a boater, you’ll understand precisely what I mean.
Final thoughts on evolution
A Sabre equipped with foredeck seating. Indeed. And not just any seating—it features a lounge and an articulated, elevated two-person configuration for the ultimate sundowner experience. Best of all, this has not affected the profile in the slightest. The design team undoubtedly debated this thoroughly—I imagine it was years in the making. The final result has been exceptionally rewarding. Trust me; savoring that first glass of wine up there will be incredibly fulfilling!
Likewise, at the stern, the overhang extends to the table’s rear edge, ensuring that the shade from the extendable cover does not disrupt the patrons. It may not be a big concern in Maine, but in Australia, it’s a welcome advantage.
In the 51SE, it feels as though Sabre has shifted from being a bit more ‘Horse and Hound’ to a touch more ‘Vogue’. I predict that the next generation of boaters will fully embrace this subtle but significant transformation. After all, it needs to look good for your Instagram posts!
So, are you in the market for a new Sabre? Me too…
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Lastly, take care of yourselves,
John Curnow
Global Editor, Powerboat.World
