Sabre 28 vs. Pearson 28/30

sailfiend · #1 (**permalink**) 08-31-2006

I'm looking to purchase a late 70's model boat in the 27-30 ft range. I keep coming back to the Sabre 28 or Pearson 28 or 30. Any advice and/or insight would be much appreciated!

sailingfool · #2 (**permalink**) 08-31-2006

I'd recommend both either the Tartan 30 and C&C 30 as much better choices. At their ages, there shouldn't be much price difference between the 28/30 foot choicess, condition and equipment will determine which is "expensive". Tartan and C&C were premium boats compared to Pearson, and offer more space and performance than the Sabre. Former owners of the C&C 30 Mark I (like me) remember it most fondly - its an outstanding boat for local cruising and club racing. You couldn't lose with either boat, take a look and see the difference.

owlmtn · #3 (**permalink**) 09-02-2006

We own a tartan 30 and love it. it's a great sailing boat with reasonable accomodations for a couple or occasional guests. I've also sailed on the sabre 28 and thought it was a great little boat, very sturdy and fast for it's type, it also had reasonable accomodations for a couple although guests would have to be very good friends. The pearson 30 is a fast boat but is very tender and easily over powered. you'll be changing head sails and reefing often. The tiller on the pearson 30 sweeps nearly the whole cockpit. the times i sailed on one it seemed to be constantly in the way. Hope this helps a little. Jim

Bob1112 · #4 (**permalink**) 09-06-2006

I raced PHRF for a while back in the 90's. The Sabre 28 (which I raced against) impressed me more than any other boat; it did well in both heavy and light air.

SailorMitch · #5 (**permalink**) 09-06-2006

I've owned two Pearsons, so you can figure out which I'd recommend. But I also have always liked the S-28. One sweet boat. If you can find Denr, ask him -- he used to own one.