1981 Sabre 30 Boat in New Bern, NC 28560 US
30
1 Engine (Volvo Penta)
30 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
1981 Sabre 30 MK1 "IMAGINE" . A budget friendly, smart sailing vessel. Set up to live aboard and gunk hole on weekend trips. Clean, simple, and seaworthy. Backed by the quality reputation of Sabre Yachts. Nothing says let's go sailing quite like a Sabre. All lines led aft, lazy jacks, dodger and bimini, Harken roller furling, Lewmar 42 self tailing winches, marine head and holding tank, hot water heater and water pressure, Garmin 740S chart plotter, like new interior cushions and curtains. Fully functional AC110/120V shore power in addition to 12-volt system. All systems professionally maintained to ABYC standards.
Volvo Penta MD7A Diesel Engine maintained by trusted local professionals at Foster's Marine, they can do pre-purchase mechanical survey. Recent tune up August 2025. Bottom cleaned August 2025. NO BLISTERS, 5-coats barrier coat 2019. This is an extremely well maintained vessel!
Lazy jacks, roller furling, chart plotter, wheel steering and lines led aft make this an easy to handle boat. Amenities below, cockpit layout and additional seating make it a comfortable boat. Design and construction known for its seaworthiness.
An affordable introductory yacht, or great deal to the seasoned racer. Beautiful mahogany and teak interior. An excellent live aboard or intro boat.
This boat is competitively priced. Price is firm having come down already from $15k. This is a great boat at a great deal. A fully functional, comfortable, safe and seaworthy boat that was bought for $20K in 2019 with even more money put into it. Sabre 30 Imagine is a classic, that is as seaworthy as it is stylish.
Call for a showing. Don't miss this boat. Just look at all of these highlights. You won't find a better boat for this price!
Cockpit cushions (2013)
Garmin 740 chart plotter with internal GPS and AIRMAR Multi-sensor transducer speed, depth, temp networked. (2012)
VHF radio with AIS receive networked to Chart plotter
Edson pedestal guard with chart plotter enclosure
SS Swim ladder on stern
Black Bimini, wheel cover and sail cover (2012)
Running Rigging replaced (2012)
Outboard motor bracket on rail
Companionway screen and boards
Masthead sloop rig
Roller furler
Main halyard led aft to cockpit.
Slab reefing led aft to cockpit
Lewmar primary and secondary winches
Main and headsail
Schaeffer main traveler
Anchor Locker forward w. bow roller
Anchor, chain & rode
Auto/Elec. bilge pump
Manual Bilge Pump
Teak Cockpit table
Fixed 2 blade propeller.
Volvo Diesel MD7A
2018 All freshwater plumbing replaced.
2013 All sanitary sewer lines replaced.
2018 Replaced all plexiglass in hatches and companion way
Outhaul replaced (2019)
Professional hull bottom repaint (2019). Removed all old paint and filled all hull imperfections, applied new barrier coat, two coats of hard paint (red) and two coats of ablative (black) (5 coats overall)
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 6/14/26 | Initial price | $8,000 |
1981 Sabre 30 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1981 Sabre 30
The 1981 Sabre 30 has garnered positive reviews from owners and sailors alike, praised for its performance, comfort, and classic design
Here are some common themes in customer feedback: 1. Sailing Performance: Many users highlight the Sabre 30’s excellent sailing capabilities. With its balanced hull design and responsive handling, sailors appreciate how well it performs in a variety of wind conditions. 2. Build Quality: Owners often commend the robust construction of the Sabre 30, noting its solid fiberglass hull and attention to detail. The craftsmanship is frequently cited as a hallmark of the Sabre brand, contributing to the boat’s longevity. 3. Spacious Interior: Customers enjoy the well-thought-out layout of the cabin, which features ample living space for a 30-foot yacht. The practical design, including a functional galley and comfortable sleeping quarters, makes it suitable for both short trips and extended cruising. 4. Ease of Maintenance: The design of the Sabre 30 allows for relatively easy maintenance, with accessible systems and components. Many owners appreciate that they can handle routine upkeep without extensive effort. 5. Classic Aesthetic: The timeless design of the Sabre 30 often receives compliments for its elegant lines and classic appearance, making it a favorite among those who appreciate traditional yacht styling. 6. Sailing Community: Owners often express a sense of camaraderie within the Sabre sailing community. Many find it rewarding to connect with other Sabre 30 enthusiasts, sharing tips, experiences, and advice. Overall, the 1981 Sabre 30 is well-regarded among sailing aficionados who value a combination of performance, comfort, and classic nautical charm.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
1981 Sabre 30: Pros and Cons
Pros
Build Quality: The Sabre 30 is known for its exceptional craftsmanship and solid construction. The use of high-quality materials and attention to detail contribute to its durability and reliability.
Sailing Performance: This model offers excellent sailing performance with a balanced hull design. It is responsive under sail and performs well in various wind conditions, making it suitable for both cruising and racing.
Stable and Comfortable: The Sabre 30 provides a stable ride thanks to its well-balanced keel and rudder design. This stability enhances comfort while sailing, making it a great choice for longer voyages.
Spacious Interior: Despite its size, the Sabre 30 features a surprisingly roomy interior, with good headroom and well-thought-out layout. It allows for comfortable living quarters that can accommodate a small crew.
Storage Options: The boat offers ample storage solutions, with lockers and compartments strategically placed throughout the cabin, enabling efficient organization for extended trips.
Timeless Design: The classic aesthetics of the Sabre 30 appeal to many sailing enthusiasts. Its timeless lines and elegant profile make it a head-turner in any marina.
Cons
Age-Related Maintenance: Being a 1981 model, some boats may require more maintenance and upgrades due to age. Potential buyers should be prepared for inspections and possible refurbishments.
Limited Speed: While the Sabre 30 performs well, it may not be as fast as some modern designs, which could be a consideration for competitive sailors seeking higher speed potential.
Size Limitations: While spacious for a 30-footer, the compact size means limited living space and amenities compared to larger yachts. This could be a drawback for those wanting more comfort or features for long-term living aboard.
Market Availability: The availability of the 1981 Sabre 30 in the market may be limited, making it harder to find the right vessel without extensive searching.
Older Technology: Some features and systems may be outdated compared to more modern yachts, which might require upgrades to ensure safety and efficiency.
Made For
The 1981 Sabre 30 is an ideal choice for sailing enthusiasts who appreciate classic design coupled with solid performance. This well-built vessel is perfect for individuals or families seeking a reliable boat for coastal cruising, day sailing, or weekend getaways. Its spacious cockpit and comfortable interior make it accommodating for both novice and experienced sailors. With a reputation for stability and ease of handling, the Sabre 30 appeals to those who enjoy spirited sailing while ensuring comfort on longer passages. Whether you're looking to explore nearby harbors or embark on extended adventures, the Sabre 30 offers a balance of speed, safety, and style, catering to a wide range of sailing lifestyles.
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1981 Sabre 30 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,000 | $9,900 | $5,900 | $12,900 | $17,000 | $19,500 |
| New Bern | Washington | Washington | Washington | Washington | Washington |
| 30' | 32' | 25' | 30' | 30' | 32' |
| 11' | - | - | - | - | - |
| 5' | - | - | - | - | - |
| Volvo Penta | Universal | Tohatsu 9.8 | Universal | Beta Diesel | Beta |
| 15 hp | 16 hp | - | 21 hp | 16 hp | 20 hp |
| 8 | 47 | 62 | 108 | 151 | 1368 |
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Contact Sunshine Cruising Yachts about 1981 Sabre 30
983 Ervin Street, Saint Augustine, FL, 32084












