[micksbuddy]

I'm looking for opinions(or even better, experience) on the relative merits of the Bristol 41.1 and Sabre 42 cb for use in full time cruising east coast, Bahamas, down island, offshore(Bermuda, etc) eventually(2-3yrs) leading to mid latitude ocean crossing. Particularly in regards to seakindliness(motion comfort), seaworthiness, durability, livability.

Thanks
Matt

 

[NaviGsr]

You might want to check out this thread:

http://www.sailnet.com/forums/bristol/23903-bristol-41-aft-cockpit.html

I've only sailed on the Bristol before. It was certainly a quick boat from what I remember. I used to like it because it looks so much like a Hinckley!

 

[paulk]

I have never been impressed by the speed of any Bristol. We sailed through the lee of one in our J/36 that had his engine running as well as full sail up, though that was a Bristol 40, not a 41.1. The Sabre 42 with its centerboard would be handy in the Bahamas, and would seem sturdy enough for a transatlantic trip too. There are lots of shallow creeks and harbors to explore in Europe as well. I'd vote for the Sabre.

 

[sahara]

The 41.1 is a much different boat from a Bristol 40. None of them are comparable to a J-boat, the 41.1 is just a different design brief - much heavier, very seakindly. Much better tankage and comfy offshore. My neighbor owns what has to be the worlds best 41.1, and it's really a nice boat that sails well.

The Sabre's are terrifically well built boats, and will be a little roomier than the Bristol. If your choice is between these two, you've set yourself up for happiness, as they are both good boats.

Let's see - J36 - 30 gallons water, 20 gals fuel
Sabre 42 - 120 gal wtr, 50 gal fuel
Bristol 41.2 150 gal wtr, 100 gals fuel

Not really comparable, as the Bristol and Sabre are actual cruising boats, not a weekender.

I really wasn't aware that the Bristols had such large fuel capacities. I do know that some of them are beautifully finished and well maintained, and that 4-1/2" draft would be attractive in the Bahamas.

PHRF NE base for the Bristol is 114-120, depending on rig, for the Sabre 42-CB - PHRF 108, so a little quicker.

PHRF of the old Bristol 40 is 168, for a J36 PHRF rating is 84. If you didn't pass him like he was standing still, you should be embarrassed. That's like a jock picking on a geek in the schoolyard