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Sabre’s Storied 50-year History and Unwavering Success

May 1, 2020 | Magazine , News , Sabre Yachts | 0 comments

Sabre Yachts officially got its start in 1970 building small production sailboats in Southeastern Maine. Before that time, founder Roger Hewson was working in his family’s construction company when he decided to design and build his first boat: a wide, blunt-nosed sailing scow that he named for its length and impressive speed in cutting through the water—like a Sabre. While attending McGill University Roger met a young lady named Charlotte, fell in-love and eventually they would marry. Charlotte’s family happened to have a large property in Raymond, Maine where they operated a popular girls summer camp. Although 25 miles from the nearest ocean put-in at Casco Bay, the couple decided to build Sabre Yachts from this location.

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The origins of Sabre Yachts: from Raymond to global recognition

How it all started: from a small town in maine to international fame.

Sabre Yachts has its roots in the quaint town of Raymond, Maine. The story begins in 1970, when Roger Hewson, the visionary behind Sabre Yachts, decided to channel his love for sailing vessels into building high-quality, semi-custom production yachts. In those early days, Maine's deep maritime tradition provided a fertile ground for Sabre's growth. Hewson wasn't just creating boats; he was setting the stage for a brand synonymous with luxury and innovation.

Early on, the company made a name with its sailing yachts, blending traditional Downeast craftsmanship with modern design. Within a decade, Sabre had garnered a staunch following. For instance, the Sabre 28 sailing yacht, launched in 1971, was a game-changer, and over 500 units of this boat were sold, proving that Hewson's vision resonated far beyond Maine's borders.

In the mid-1980s, Sabre expanded its repertoire, stepping into the motor yacht market with the same meticulous attention to detail. The introduction of the Sabreline series of motor yachts marked a pivotal shift. The Sabreline 36 Sedan led this new chapter, showcasing Sabre's commitment to quality and performance, and quickly earned industry accolades. By infusing Downeast heritage with cutting-edge technology, Sabre cultivated a niche that balanced elegance with rugged practicality.

Recognizing the guiding hand

Roger Hewson's leadership was instrumental in shaping Sabre Yachts' reputation. His passion for boat-building and dedication to quality control set high standards. Hewson once aptly said, "Never compromise on the integrity of your boats; always build them as if they are for your personal use." This ethos still echoes in Sabre's operations today, ensuring each yacht is crafted with the same precision and care as it was five decades ago.

Sabre's journey from local gem to global icon wasn't a smooth sail all the way. There were obstacles and market fluctuations. Yet, the company’s resilience and commitment to its foundational principles helped it rise above. Sabre Yachts' ability to blend time-honored craftsmanship with innovation continues to captivate yacht enthusiasts worldwide.

As Sabre navigated its path to acclaim, it garnered loyal customers and set industry trends. Quality craftsmanship, innovative designs, and a deep respect for maritime heritage helped the brand carve a unique niche in the luxury yacht segment. To read more about how historic yacht restorations honor nautical heritage, click here .

Craftsmanship and innovation: what sets Sabre Yachts apart

Quality craftsmanship: the heart of every sabre yacht.

Sabre Yachts has built its reputation on exceptional craftsmanship and innovation. Founded in 1970 by Roger Hewson in Raymond, Maine, Sabre Yachts is known for its attention to detail and dedication to quality. Their boats are built to withstand the rigors of time and use, reflecting a blend of traditional techniques and modern technology. Each yacht is a manifestation of skill, precision, and care that goes into every step of the building process.

Innovative technology: leading the way

Sabre Yachts has always stayed ahead of the curve by integrating cutting-edge technology into their designs. A notable example of this innovation is the use of resin-infused composite construction, which enhances strength and reduces weight, providing a superior ride while maintaining fuel efficiency. The company also incorporates advanced navigation systems and state-of-the-art entertainment setups to ensure that every journey is both safe and enjoyable.

The customer's voice: testimonials from yacht owners

Customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many owners praising the combination of luxury and practicality that Sabre Yachts deliver. Mark Thompson from Portland shares, "Our Sabre 45 Salon Express has truly changed the way we experience cruising. The craftsmanship is impeccable, and the technology onboard makes navigation a breeze." Such testimonials highlight Sabre's commitment to exceeding customer expectations in every aspect. More stories like Mark's can be found at this link , shedding light on the lasting impact Sabre Yachts have on their owners' lives.

A closer look at popular Sabre models

Sabre 45 salon express: a balance of style and functionality.

The Sabre 45 salon express stands out with its impressive design and innovative features. Crafted for the discerning sailor, this model combines exquisite aesthetics with practicality. According to company reports, the Sabre 45 offers a spacious and luxurious living area, designed with a perfect blend of traditional Downeast styling and modern amenities.

One of the key highlights is the efficient twin Volvo Penta IPS 600 engines, providing both powerful performance and fuel efficiency. The yacht can achieve an impressive cruising speed of 27 knots, with a top speed reaching up to 34 knots. This balance of style and functionality makes it a favored choice among yacht enthusiasts.

Sabre 48 salon express: redefining luxury cruising

The Sabre 48 salon express is a prime example of the company's dedication to craftsmanship and performance. Built in Maine, this model boasts an advanced hull design for a smooth and stable ride, even in challenging conditions. The interior layout showcases elegant woodwork, spacious staterooms, and state-of-the-art electronics.

In terms of performance, the Sabre 48 is powered by twin Cummins QSC 8.3 550 hp engines, allowing for a smooth and powerful ride. It comes equipped with advanced navigational and safety systems, ensuring a comfortable and secure voyage. Its design emphasizes both luxury and practicality, reflecting the company’s commitment to high-quality construction.

Sabre 58 salon express: the epitome of elegance and power

The newly-introduced Sabre 58 salon express is designed for those who seek the ultimate in luxury yachting. Launched to much acclaim, the model features an expansive flybridge, generous main salon, and elegant staterooms.

This yacht is powered by twin Volvo Penta D11 engines, providing a seamless and robust performance. It can reach a cruising speed of around 28 knots and a maximum speed of 34 knots, making it both fast and reliable for long journeys. One of its standout features is the quiet and smooth ride, achieved through advanced construction techniques and superior insulation.

Custom features and attention to detail

Sabre Yachts is renowned for its ability to customize models to suit individual preferences. This allows owners to create a yacht that truly meets their desires. From custom layouts to unique finishing touches, the company ensures that each yacht is a reflection of its owner’s personal style.

Reports indicate that customers appreciate the attention to detail and the high level of craftsmanship in each yacht. For example, Sabre Yachts often include bespoke cabinetry, hand-polished wood finishes, and state-of-the-art entertainment systems. This commitment to quality and customization sets Sabre apart in the competitive market of luxury yachts.

The Downeast style: a hallmark of Sabre Yachts design

Embracing the timeless downeast style.

Sabre Yachts, a name synonymous with outstanding craftsmanship and luxury, has firmly rooted its design philosophy in the Downeast style. This characteristic style, echoing the classic New England lobster boats, manifests in distinctive features that appeal to both novice and seasoned yacht enthusiasts.

Sabre Yachts' commitment to this traditional design can be traced back to its origins in Maine. The state's rich maritime history and the necessity for sturdy, seaworthy vessels had a profound influence on Roger Hewson, Sabre's founder. The Downeast style isn't just an aesthetic choice for Sabre, it's a connection to their heritage and a testament to Hewson's vision.

Hallmark characteristics

Key elements of the Downeast style include the pronounced sheer line, clipper bow, and the generous use of teak in the deck and interiors. These features lend the yachts a timeless elegance and a robust sea-keeping ability. Sabre's use of high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship ensures these boats aren't just beautiful to look at but also incredibly durable and functional.

Models such as the Sabre 48 Salon Express and the Sabre 58 Salon Express embody this design philosophy. The boats offer a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, with state-of-the-art technology seamlessly integrated into the classic boat design. They are not only visually stunning but also equipped for serious coastal and offshore cruising, ensuring owners can venture out confidently.

Setting the standard in luxury and performance

The Sabre Salon Express models, including the aforementioned Sabre 48 and Sabre 58, are particularly renowned for their performance and luxury. These yachts offer spacious, comfortable interiors, advanced navigation and control systems, and powerful engines for smooth and swift sailing. Potential buyers looking for yachts sale opportunities often prioritize these models for their impeccable balance of style and performance.

The express salon layout is particularly popular, known for its open, airy feel and unobstructed views from the salon to the cockpit. This design facilitates social interaction and makes these yachts perfect for entertaining, a key consideration for many luxury yacht owners.

Real-world testimonials and user feedback

Yacht enthusiasts and owners often praise the Sabre Salon Express models for their outstanding design and functionality. A customer review on BoatTrader highlighted the Sabre 48 Salon Express, saying, "This yacht combines modern technology with timeless Downeast style. It's perfect for entertaining and long-range cruising alike."

Such testimonials underscore the enduring appeal of the Downeast style that Sabre Yachts so skillfully embodies. The positive feedback from owners reflects not just satisfaction with their purchase but a genuine admiration for the unique blend of classic design and modern innovation that these yachts represent.

The role of Sabre Yachts in the luxury yacht market

Sabre yachts: making waves in the luxury yacht market.

Sabre Yachts, a name synonymous with luxury and craftsmanship, has firmly established itself as a leader in the luxury yacht market. With its roots deeply embedded in Maine, the company has grown from its humble beginnings in Raymond to enjoy global recognition. But what exactly secures Sabre's status in this opulent arena?

One of the undeniable strengths of Sabre Yachts lies in its meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality, a sentiment echoed by many industry experts. Roger Hewson, the visionary founder of Sabre Yachts, set out with a clear mission: to build yachts that would not only meet but exceed the expectations of discerning sailors.

When it comes to the luxury yacht sector, innovation is key. Sabre Yachts stands out with its continuous advancements in design and engineering. From the sleek lines of the Sabre 48 Salon Express to the impressive capabilities of the Sabre 43 Salon Express, these models showcase the brand's unwavering dedication to blending functionality with style.

It's not just about the yachts themselves, but the experience they offer. Owners of Sabre Yachts often share personal stories that highlight the unparalleled cruising experiences these boats provide. For instance, the Sabre 58 Salon Express has been praised for its spacious interiors and superior performance, making it a favorite among luxury yacht enthusiasts.

Unrivaled craftsmanship meets Downeast elegance

Sabre Yachts' adherence to the Downeast style pays homage to Maine's rich maritime heritage. This design approach, characterized by its practicality and timeless elegance, resonates deeply with yacht owners who appreciate both form and function. The Downeast style is more than just an aesthetic choice; it's a nod to the company's origins and a testament to its enduring legacy.

The luxury yacht market is highly competitive, yet Sabre Yachts continues to capture the hearts of potential buyers. Reports indicate that the company's sales have seen a steady increase in recent years, driven by a loyal customer base and a robust demand for high-quality, American-built yachts. With prices reflecting the exceptional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology, yachts like the Sabre 45 Salon Express command a premium in the market.

Why Sabre Yachts stands out in the crowded luxury segment

One of the standout factors contributing to Sabre Yachts' success is its ability to innovate while staying true to its roots. The introduction of the Sabre Fly Bridge and Hardtop Express models has expanded the company's repertoire, attracting a broader audience seeking versatile, luxurious cruising options. These models, alongside the Sabre Sedan, exemplify the brand's ability to cater to diverse preferences within the luxury segment.

Additionally, Sabre Yachts' commitment to customer satisfaction and service sets it apart. The company's reputation for delivering exceptional post-sales support and maintenance has fostered long-term relationships with yacht owners. This level of dedication to customer care is a critical component of the brand's ongoing success in the high-end market.

With a proven track record and a bright future ahead, Sabre Yachts continues to make its mark in the luxury yacht sector. The company's blend of heritage, innovation, and customer-centric approach ensures that it remains a coveted choice for those seeking the ultimate yachting experience.

Customer experiences: testimonials and case studies

Real sailor stories: living the sabre dream.

From the rocky coasts of Maine to the vibrant waters of Florida, Sabre Yachts have been delivering unforgettable experiences to their owners. One of the best ways to understand the impact of Sabre Yachts is to listen to the voices of those who have lived the Sabre dream. Their stories are a testament to the quality, design, and comfort of these remarkable vessels.

Doug's adventure: above and beyond expectations

Doug, a proud owner of a Sabre 48 Salon Express, shares his experience:

"Owning a Sabre yacht has truly transformed our coastal cruising. The attention to detail and craftsmanship are unparalleled. Whether we're anchoring in a secluded bay or docking at a bustling marina, we always receive compliments on our yacht's beautiful design and performance."

Doug's Sabre 48 is more than just a boat – it's a second home that offers both luxury and reliability. He particularly appreciates the state-of-the-art technology and thoughtful layout, which ensure that every voyage is smooth and enjoyable.

Mary and Tom's cruising lifestyle

Mary and Tom have been living aboard their Sabre 45 Salon Express for over three years. Their yacht has taken them from the serene New England waters to the sunny climes of the Caribbean:

"We were looking for a boat that combined style, comfort, and performance, and the Sabre 45 exceeded our expectations. Living on the boat has been a dream come true – we have all the amenities we need, and the craftsmanship is apparent in every nook and cranny."

The couple highlights the yacht's spacious salon and advanced navigation systems as key features that make long-term cruising not just feasible but enjoyable. The supportive Sabre Yachts community has been an added bonus, providing a network of fellow enthusiasts to share tips and stories with.

Community and connections: the Sabre yachts family

Sabre Yachts owners often speak of a strong sense of community. This isn't just about owning a boat – it's about joining a family. Owners passionately discuss their yachts in forums, share maintenance tips, and even organize rendezvous.

John, an owner of a Sabre 58 Salon Express, sums it up perfectly:

"The Sabre community is like no other. We've made lifelong friends and always have someone to turn to for advice or a friendly chat. There's a shared pride in owning such fine Maine-built yachts, and that connection runs deep."

Unwavering commitment: Sabre's stellar support

Another key component of the Sabre Yachts experience is the exceptional support provided by the company. Mike, a recent buyer of a Sabre 43 Salon Express, recounts his experience:

"From the moment we considered purchasing a Sabre, the support was outstanding. The team was always available to answer our questions and provide guidance. Even after the sale, their commitment to ensuring we were happy with our yacht was clear. It's this kind of service that makes owning a Sabre truly special."

Sabre Yachts' dedication to customer satisfaction is evident, creating not just yachts, but lasting relationships with their owners.

By bringing together innovative design, luxurious comfort, and a supportive community, Sabre Yachts continues to set the standard in the yachting world. From the rugged coastlines of Maine where they're lovingly crafted, to the azure waters where they're sailed, Sabre Yachts create lifelong memories and unmatched experiences.

Sabre Yachts and sustainability: eco-friendly initiatives

Green initiatives: embracing eco-friendly practices, case studies, the community's response, future trends and innovations at sabre yachts, embracing higher sustainability with hybrid propulsion, advanced materials for eco-friendly yachts, energy-efficient design features, commitment to reducing plastic waste, partnerships geared towards sustainability, innovative waste management systems.

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A Brief History of Sabre and Back Cove Yachts

DiMillo’s Yacht Sales is a proud dealer for the Maine made, hand crafted Sabre and Back Cove Yachts. The prestigious brands have been crafting classic Downeast style boats that have become industry leading yachts.

Sabre Yachts originally began manufacturing sailboats over 50 years ago. In 1970, the company’s founder, Roger Hewson, constructed the first Sabre 28-foot sailing vessel. Built using production line methods, fiberglass technology, and a lot of market research, the boat was first introduced at the New Port Boat Show in Rhode Island. The vessel turned out to be a huge success and resulted in the construction of over 588 Sabre 28’s over its lifetime. While this particular model was what got the company moving, Sabre aimed to broaden their market and began to introduce power models. In 1989, Sabre debuted the Sabre 36 “Fast Trawler”, a tri-cabin motoryacht with the spaciousness and comfort of the trawler design but with substantially better performance than traditional trawler hulls. This launched Sabre’s industry-leading motor yacht range. Today, Sabre produces powerboat models from 43 to 58 feet in length with Salon Express and Fly Bridge variations. All current Sabre models are constructed using their state-of-the-art, VIP resin infusion technology. Sabre’s boat building yards are located in both Raymond and Rockland, Maine.

Sister company, Back Cove Yachts was introduced in 2003 after a group of Sabre dealers requested a smaller Downeast style cruising vessel to fit the needs of owners looking for that Maine lobster boat feel. The Back Cove 29 was soon launched thereafter and so was a new brand. Back Cove Yachts crafts luxury yachts that epitomize traditional Maine values- quality, ingenuity and nautical sensibility. The Back Cove Design Team is committed to the concept of the owner-as-operator and thoughtfully creates yachts that fulfill the discerning boater’s need for independence, reliability and comfort. The results are undeniable; classically beautiful boats that are both practical and elegant. Today, Back Cove Yachts produces models 34O, 372, 39O, and 41 and are built at the facility in Rockland, Maine.

sabre yachts history

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sabre yachts history

Sabre Yachts

The Sabre story began in 1970, when the company’s founder, Roger Hewson, set out to build the finest possible 28-foot sailing yacht using production line methods and fiberglass technology. In a small, 4,000 square foot building, with a handful of employees and a vast amount of market research which he had done on the marine industry, he designed and built the first Sabre 28, and introduced it to the market at the 1971 Newport Boat Show in Newport, RI. The boat was a success, and over the next fifteen years, 588 Sabre 28’s were built. The 28 was followed by the Sabre 34 in 1976, the Sabre 30 in 1979, the Sabre 38 in 1981 and the Sabre 32 and 36 in 1984. The Sabre 42, which later evolved into the Sabre 425, was introduced in 1986. The current sailboat range consists of three Jim Taylor/Sabre Design Team collaborations, the Sabre 362, Sabre 402 and Sabre 452. A new Sabre 426 is due for introduction in September of 2003. Each of the current models has won the prestigious Boat of the Year Award from Cruising World Magazine in it’s year of introduction. A complete list of Sabre models and their dates of introduction can be found at the end of this document. In 1989 Sabre sought to broaden its market by building a line of power boats. In 1994, Sabre acquired North End Marine of Rockland, Maine, a major builder of marine molds and production fiberglass parts. The company’s name was changed to North End Composites in 1996 and it has since diversified into industrial, commercial and architectural composite construction while maintaining an active presence in the marine mold making and part production business. As of 2012, Sabre ended production of sailing yachts though they have said it could be restored should the market improve.

Associations

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  • Roger Hewson

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Sabre at 50

From high-quality sailboats to powerboat powerhouse.

Sabre Yachts is buzzing with activity. As the Maine-based firm enters its 50th year, business remains strong, with a backlog of orders for many of Sabre’s powerboat models.

During a recent visit to the 83,750-square-foot plant in Raymond, boats in one vast section were lined up bow to stern in various stages of construction. Nearby, hulls and decks were being prepped for fiberglass lay-up. Modules  were under way for the interior of the Sabre 58 Salon Express. Woodworkers were crafting furnishings and other components. Carpenter Chuck Brown pointed out the delicate curvatures and seamless corner joinery of a window frame he was working on for Hull No. 139 of the Sabre 48. One workbench over, another master carpenter, Diane Hoffman, was mocking up drawer latches. Both have been with the company for 18 years.

sabre yachts history

“I’ve loved my job ever since the first day I started,” Hoffman said. “Usually you’ll find me building the more complicated components. It’s creative.”

Sabre’s vice president of sales and marketing, Bentley Collins, has been with the company for 26 years. “It’s a well-oiled machine with a lot of really talented people,” he noted, surveying the busy scene. As many as 150 people work in the Raymond plant. Collins took obvious pride in the swirl of activity—the veterans with years of experience, the newcomers eager to learn, the combination of Maine prowess with state-of-the-art innovation.

The Sabre 58 is a good example of the company’s status in the yachting world. The recently debuted model generated seven orders before one was even built. It’s now in production both in Raymond and at the company’s second facility in Rockland, allowing Sabre to ship all of the orders in the next 18 months.

sabre yachts history

That rate of production is typical. The company sells powerboat models from 38 to 66 feet long in salon express and flybridge variations, ranging in price from $700,000 to $3.5 million. Over the past year, Sabre 45s came off the production line at a rate of one every 12 days. Workers were getting ready last summer to ship Hull No. 145 of the Sabre 42, and 10 more were in production or on order. There’s at least a year-long backlog on most models; some models have backlogs of two years, according to Collins.

sabre yachts history

Key to Sabre’s success has been continual design development, even through economic downturns, Collins said. He credited the company’s co-owner and co-chair, Daniel Zilkha, for his commitment to this program.

“If you don’t say, ‘Here’s something new,’ customers just stay with what they’ve got,” Collins said. “So we’ve driven our business by creating new models. And our customers have been faithful all the way through. During the last downturn, a lot of builders stopped developing new models completely and had to bow out of the motoryacht business. Whereas Daniel’s philosophy was new, new, new.”

sabre yachts history

The Sabre story goes back to the 1960s, when Roger Hewson designed a 26-foot sailing scow in his spare time. Hewson, originally from Montreal, owned a construction company, but loved building boats. His called his racing model the “Sabre scow” because it was long and narrow like a sabre (as it’s commonly spelled in Canada).

The sideline became Hewson’s passion. He sold his construction business and researched new boat models. Smaller, high-quality fiberglass sailboats for first-time cruisers fit the bill. The Sabre 28 was born.

sabre yachts history

In 1970, Hewson and his wife, Charlie, moved to Raymond, where Charlie had family, and built a 4,000-square-foot shop, officially launching the company and the Sabre brand. With a handful of employees, he built the first Sabre 28, introducing it to the market at the 1971 Newport (Rhode Island) Boat Show. It was a hit, with 588 built over the next 15 years. Hewson subsequently designed models up to 44 feet in length. In the 1980s,  Sailing World  ranked the Sabre 34, 38, and 42 as first in class. In 2003, the 28 was inducted into the American Sailboat Hall of Fame.

In 1988, realizing many customers were moving to powerboats, Hewson designed the Sabre 36 “Fast Trawler,” a motoryacht combining spaciousness with performance. But retirement beckoned. Thinking of his 195 employees and the potential for powerboats, he prepared a business plan designed to invite new investors. 

The timing was complicated. The industry would soon be devastated by what Hewson calls a “perfect economic storm,” caused in part by a new tax on luxury goods including yachts, and a stock market downturn. The first investor to step in was a Sabre owner, Ed Miller, who had a summer home not far from the yard. Miller, president of the newly created Caribbean and South America division of Federal Express, brought in his neighbor, Daniel Zilkha, as a second investor to run day-to-day operations.

Born in Egypt and raised in Paris, Zilkha was a founding partner in the Geneva investment bank Soditic S.A. as well as founder and publisher of Art & Auction Magazine in New York. When Miller contacted him, he was living in Maine, where his wife had family roots. Zilkha didn’t know anything about boats or boatbuilding. But with a finance and business background, he proved a fortuitous choice. Bringing Collins onboard, they decided to focus on the powerboat market.

“As time went by, our sailboat dealer network fell away, and our powerboat dealer network urged us to build more powerboats,” Collins recalled.

sabre yachts history

The powerboats were successful from the start. In 1995, Sabre acquired North End Marine of Rockland, then a builder of marine molds and production fiberglass parts. The company’s name was changed to North End Composites; today the shop is used for the production of hulls and decks for Sabre’s larger models. It’s also home to Sabre’s sister company Back Cove Yachts, established in 2003 to meet demand for small to medium-sized motoryachts.

Today, Sabre and Back Cove together are the largest recreational boatbuilding company in Maine, according to Collins, employing more than 350 people.

Zilkha recently stepped back from his role as CEO. President and Chief Operating Officer Aaron Crawford will take his place this January 1.

“So when people ask me what I am, I’ll say I’m the CWO—chief worry officer,” Zilkha joked.

sabre yachts history

With a popular brand, a business approach designed to weather economic vagaries, and a slate of next-generation workers coming in, Sabre Yachts is looking toward its next 50 years. Collins pointed out a sign placed prominently in the shop’s front bay: “Each Sabre is a precision product that must meet the challenge of the high seas.”

“That’s a sign Roger would have put up, back in his day,” he said. “When you think back on 50 years in the boat business, we’re one of those enduring brands.”

MBH&H  Contributing Editor Laurie Schreiber is also a  Mainebiz  staff writer and has covered topics in Maine for more than 25 years.

For More Information:

Sabre Yachts

12 Hawthorne Road, Raymond, ME

207-655-3831

www.sabreyachts.com

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  2. 1985 30' SABRE YACHTS in Boston Massachusetts United States (266760)

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  3. Sabre Yachts

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  4. Sabre's Storied 50-year History and Unwavering Success

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COMMENTS

  1. About Sabre Yachts

    Sabre Yachts has been crafting luxury yachts since 1970 when the company's founder set out to build the finest possible 28-foot sailing yacht using production line methods and fiberglass technology. Over the next 40 years, sailboat models from 28 to 45 feet were introduced. In 1989 Sabre debuted the Sabreline 36 "Fast Trawler," a tri ...

  2. Sabre's Storied 50-year History and Unwavering Success

    Sabre Yachts officially got its start in 1970 building small production sailboats in Southeastern Maine. Before that time, founder Roger Hewson was working in his family's construction company when he decided to design and build his first boat: a wide, blunt-nosed sailing scow that he named for its length and impressive speed in cutting through the water—like a Sabre.

  3. Sabre yachts: exploring the legacy and innovation of a maine

    The origins of Sabre Yachts: from Raymond to global recognition How it all started: from a small town in Maine to international fame. Sabre Yachts has its roots in the quaint town of Raymond, Maine. The story begins in 1970, when Roger Hewson, the visionary behind Sabre Yachts, decided to channel his love for sailing vessels into building high ...

  4. A Brief History of Sabre and Back Cove Yachts

    Sabre Yachts originally began manufacturing sailboats over 50 years ago. In 1970, the company's founder, Roger Hewson, constructed the first Sabre 28-foot sailing vessel. Built using production line methods, fiberglass technology, and a lot of market research, the boat was first introduced at the New Port Boat Show in Rhode Island. ...

  5. PDF Sabre Sailing Yachts and Their Years of Production

    Sabre Sailing Yachts and Their Years of Production. Sabre 28 I. Hull #1 - 199 Built 1970-75. Sabre 28 II. Hull #212-#539 Built 1976-82. Sabre 28 III. Hull #540 - #588 Built 1983-86.

  6. Sabre Yachts (USA)

    The Sabre story began in 1970, when the company's founder, Roger Hewson, set out to build the finest possible 28-foot sailing yacht using production line methods and fiberglass technology. In a small, 4,000 square foot building, with a handful of employees and a vast amount of market research which he had done on the marine industry, he designed and built the first Sabre 28, and introduced ...

  7. The tradition of Maine boatbuilding has kept Sabre Yachts afloat

    RAYMOND, Maine — Back in the 60's, Roger Hewson and his wife Charlie were at the helm of a construction business and had a penchant for designing sailboats. He sketched out and built a 26 ft sailboat he called a "Sabre Scow" using the name 'Sabre' because of the long sleek shape of the boat. Charlie Hewson's grandparents came to Maine ...

  8. Sabre Yachts: Luxury Motoryachts Crafted in Maine

    Sabre Yachts manufactures downeast style motoryachts; semi-custom and hand-crafted in Maine since 1970. MENU. Skip to content. Motor Yachts; Owner Resources; About; Connect; Find a Dealer; Careers; Contact; Search; Search Website Search for: Search . 38 Salon Express. 43 Salon Express. 45 Salon Express.

  9. Sabre Yachts

    The boat was a success, and over the next fifteen years, 588 Sabre 28's were built. The 28 was followed by the Sabre 34 in 1976, the Sabre 30 in 1979, the Sabre 38 in 1981 and the Sabre 32 and 36 in 1984. The Sabre 42, which later evolved into the Sabre 425, was introduced in 1986. The current sailboat range consists of three Jim Taylor/Sabre ...

  10. The History of Sabre Yachts and Boston Yacht Sales

    The History of Sabre Yachts and Boston YachtSabre Yachts has been crafting luxury yachts since 1970 when the company's founder set out to build the finest possible 28-foot sailing yacht using production line methods and fiberglass technology. Over the next 40 years, sailboat models from 28 to 45 feet were introduced. ...

  11. History of Sabre: Charlie & Roger Hewson

    Sabre Yachts was founded in 1970, and to celebrate 50 years in the luxury downeast yachting industry we are kicking off our History of Sabre series with an i...

  12. Back Cove Yachts Company Story and History

    From Maine. Back Cove Yachts, founded in 2003, is a sister company of Sabre Yachts. A group of Sabre dealers requested a smaller Downeast style cruising boat to suit the needs of owners who admired the look and feel of the Maine lobster boat and the dependability and fuel efficiency of a single diesel engine. The Back Cove 29 was launched soon ...

  13. Sabre at 50

    Sabre Yachts. 12 Hawthorne Road, Raymond, ME. 207-655-3831. www.sabreyachts.com. Stay in touch with the coast! Sign up for our newsletter: Sabre Yachts is buzzing with activity. As the Maine-based firm enters its 50th year, business remains strong, with a backlog of orders for many of Sabre's powerboat models.

  14. 38 years and 2600 boats later: Sabre past and present, side-by-each

    SABRE has a rich history and to date, has built over 2100 sailboats and over 500 motor yachts between PATIENCE and this latest vessel out the door. I spoke with the owner this morning as his boat was heading down the road and asked him what he will be naming his new girl. She will be VIM, which is defined as: Power; force; energy; spirit ...

  15. History of Sabre: Glenn Campbell

    Sabre Yachts · April 25, 2020 · Follow. We interviewed Glenn Campbell, Sabre's Engineering Manager, in the latest installment of our History of Sabre interview series. Watch the video to learn more about Glenn, the evolution of our engineering processes, and the special challenges of building a prototype. See less. Comments ...

  16. Sabre Yachts

    Annual revenues have reached $50 million, in part on the strength of building some 14 Sabre 48s a year (current base price $1.12 million). Sales of sister company Back Cove Yachts, which employs 200 in Rockland, add another $10 million to $20 million. "I have a tremendous amount of respect for Daniel Zilkha, He's not a boat guy.

  17. Sabre 43 Salon Express

    Sabre Yachts has a long history of success with models between 40 and 45 feet, beginning in 1987 with the first Sabre 42 sailboat. Since then, Sabre has built more than 660 boats in this size range across fifteen different sail and power models. This year, they'll add another: the Sabre 43 Salon Express. ...

  18. Sabre Yachts

    Sabre Yachts began in 1970 near Boston. As a leading innovator of production line excellence in methods and fiberglass technology, Sabre Yachts has been on the cutting edge ever since. Now their beautiful sail and motor yachts skirt the high seas across the world, with multiple model types for every need. "Crafted in the Maine Tradition" is ...

  19. Sabre sailing yachts hand crafted in Maine USA

    Sabre Sailing Yachts. Our three sailboat models are described in the following pages: the Sabre Spirit, the Sabre 426, and the Sabre 456. You will find detailed data as well as interior and exterior images; you can request additional information about any of these designs; or you will find contact information for the dealer nearest you. Sabre ...

  20. Sabre Yachts for sale

    Sabre boats for sale on YachtWorld are available for a swath of prices from $14,951 on the lower-cost segment, with costs up to $3,049,000 for the most advanced and biggest yachts. What Sabre model is the best? Some of the most widely-known Sabre models currently listed include: Salon Express, 43 Salon Express, 45 Salon Express, 38 Salon ...

  21. Category:Sabre Yachts

    Manufacturing companies established in 1970. Yacht building companies. American boat builders. 1970 establishments in Maine. Hidden category: Wikipedia categories named after vehicle manufacturing companies of the United States.

  22. Sabre motor yachts

    Sabre Yachts has crafted luxury Maine-built yachts since 1970. Faithful to that heritage, Sabre is dedicated to manufacturing the highest quality dual-engine pod-driven yachts on the market, in signature Downeast style. Crafted by Maine's best and most experienced boat builders, Sabre's iconic woodworking and classic profiles turn heads in ...

  23. Frequently Asked Questions about Motor Yachts and ...

    A. Sabre has been building Sabre sailing yachts since 1970 and Sabre motor yachts since 1989, in the Sabre yard in South Casco, Maine, USA. If you wish to learn more about our company, its history and comments about us from third parties, please see the " Sabre Story " section of this web site.

  24. Sabre 54 Salon Express

    The Sabre 51 Salon Express is designed to empower owners with seamless control and flexibility of use, blending advanced digital systems like Sabre switching and Sabre Connect for full remote access to onboard amenities. With enhanced exterior lounging areas, an expanded cockpit space, and refined interior comfort, this model redefines cruising ...