Sabre 386 or Tartan 3700???

[bluewaterdreamer]

Well I did it, I ordered a Brand new 2005 Tartan 4100. Boat should be complete by December/January.

I looked at the Sabre 386 and 426, at the end of the day I liked the setup, and layout of the 4100 better. I also like the higher tech build of the Tartan. I have been to the factory, several times, and they have been great to work with so far.

Let me hear from those of you that have sailed and or own this boat.

Thanks, ~~~

[DuaneIsing]

Congrats, bluewaterdreamer! You should really enjoy your boat.

Duane

[tweetybd]

Bluewaterdreamer,

I second Duane -- congratulations!

Tell us about the setup (options, changes, etc.), and please keep us appraised of the progress of your boat. When is the planned delivery date, and will it be shown at any boat shows?

Where will she be berthed, and will you be needing crew?

Jon

[max-on]

Congrats Bluewaterdreamer. Please keep us updated on the production. Also, how did you set-up the boat and what options did you choose.

Where have the naysayers gone?

[PhilMraz]

Yes, bluewaterdreamer, you''ve gone and chose the red-head. Your initial post of 9/3 did not introduce this prospect, but my guess is that all here compliment your taste hope to share your enjoyment. Whether you put those Tartan rumors to bed or not, SWEET DREAMS.

[Columnist]

I have also witnessed very poor factory service and some real sloppy craftsmanship on the C&C boats. They are very pricey to justify this... Two new C&C boats are in my marina now and both owners have had some quality issues. They are great boats and after all the issues are settled, I think they will be happy or they seem to be leaning that way anyway.

I am also leary of Fairport Yachts as Cape Yachts droped their product line as did Hellier. Both are outstanding reputable dealers. Fairport seems to be going with all company owned dealerships. Why does Freedom Yachts ring a bell?

I am real interested in the Saga built in Canada. I would love some information on these boats from dealers, owners or anyone who might have the scoop on that company and boat.

Steve S.

[max-on]

Columnist, can you be more specific with what the poor quality items are?

[Springmill]

I tool delivery of a new Tartan 3700 this past summer after extensive comparative ivestigation with the the Sabre 386 and the Jenneaus and Jboats. I wanted a high quality, high performance cruiser. So it came down to the Tartan and Sabre pretty quickly based on quality, accommodation plan and performance. Both are very good boats. The quality of the joinery was about the same. So were the accommodation plans; about the same volume, with the tartan having a bit better layout.
But the Tartan 3700 is just a far better engineered boat; the strength/weight ratio of the hull and deck laminates, and the carbon fiber mast made it easily the best choice. I visited both factories. The difference is that Tartan uses an epoxy resin system and a synthetic coring called Core cell, both of which are very expensive, but yield far greater strength and osmotic resistance in the hull laminate. The carbon mast is about 50% lighter with greater strength and stiffness than the metal ones used on the sabre.
But it all comes down to what you like; I liked the Tartan. It was an easy decision once the time was spent to look.

[bluewaterdreamer]

Well, Now that spring is right around the corner, I am looking forward to sailing my new Tartan 4100. Any other New Tartan owners out there getting ready to commision their Boats, Let me know if you are getting close to "Splash Down"

[Denr]

Sorry bluewaterscreamer, everyone else bought the Sabre and went with the North sail package!