FEBRUARY
2018
63blend with the varnished woodwork. Outboard of the
helm, a swing door opens onto the side deck, giving the
helmsman an easy way to help with lines while the IPS
holds the boat on station.
Although the galley is two steps below the bridge
deck (Sabre refers to the positioning as a half-up gal-
ley), the space basks in the light from the pilothouse
windshield and side windows. Countertops surround a
stainless steel sink and two-burner induction cooktop.
The galley also has a two-drawer refrigerator, single-
drawer freezer, convection microwave and stowage for
dry goods, flatware, dishes and glassware.
The master stateroom fills the forepeak with a
centerline berth, cedar-lined hanging locker, four-
drawer bureau, cabinets and head. A guest stateroom
is amidships to starboard. Its twin berths push together
to form a double, and its head doubles as a day head
for the yacht. For owners who only need a master, the
guest stateroom can convert to an office.
The 45’s stick-built interior rests on a molded com-
posite substructure. This construction method adds
stiffness to the hull and permits the variety of joinery
that gives the interior its ambience. All the cabin soles
are teak and holly. Through a hatch cut into the salon’s
sole is a nicely finished space that can be a laundry
room, additional refrigeration, stowage or any custom
use. On the 45 that I sea-trialed, this area housed an
optional Seakeeper gyrostabilizer.
Underway in Narragansett Bay, the wind blew an
average of about 6 knots out of the south-southwest.
We encountered a light chop in one area and 3-foot
seas in another. These minor annoyances didn’t dis-
turb the Sabre’s composure. Steering remained light
and positive, and Volvo Penta’s integrated automatic
trim system kept the yacht on an even keel. Sabre pro-
grammed the system to limit the degree of heel dur-
ing tight, high-speed turns, helping the boat maintain
speed and allowing the helmsman to see the horizon
and nearby boats from a standing position.
Timeless styling, sensible performance and a classy
interior: that’s the Sabre 45 Salon Express.
For more information: sabreyachts.com
PREVIOUS PAGE: The Sabre 45 Salon Express rides on a
warped-V hull designed for comfort in a seaway, speed and
fuel economy. THIS PAGE, TOP AND CENTER: A polished stainless
steel-framed glass door opens onto the salon/pilothouse.
Abundant natural light streaming through the glazing
sets the cherry joinery aglow. RIGHT: A pair of Stidd seats
face the cherry helm console. Two Volvo/Garmin 17-inch
displays stare back at you and blend with the varnished
woodwork. A swing door opens onto the side deck.