First announced by Sabre Yachts in 2021, the new 43 Salon Express remains true to the Maine-based shipyard’s heritage. Designed to replace the highly popular 42 SE, this yacht is a stunning vessel in its own right, a definitive statement of Sabre’s dual embrace of history and innovation. While it takes its cues from lobster and fishing boats, the 43 SE is also the first of Sabre’s fleet under 58 feet to be fully networked. This means owner-operators can control yacht functions via the helm MFDs and iPad mini, or monitor GPS, fluid levels, geofencing, and other data via smartphone thanks to the Sentinel Telematics app.
In dock, onlookers will note this yacht’s wide windows, workmanlike hull, and enviable open cockpit perfect for al fresco dining. A welcoming L-shaped settee and teak dining table stretches from port all the way to the starboard transom gate, with a clear view of the exceptional salon interior. Two seats to port and starboard add to the aft deck seating and are perfect for looking out over the stern as the boat gets underway. In the early evening at anchor, guests can congregate on the swim platform, bathing in the sea as the sun dips beneath the pink sky.
Life aboard the 43 SE naturally revolves around the large, light-filled salon, where the rich sound of the Fusion Apollo Stereo System resonates against exquisitely varnished cherry woodwork and teak and holly floors. Four skylights overhead provide stunning vertical views, adding a sense of height and drama to the space. Friends and family can sit and chat on the portside settee, mingling as others settle down on the L-shaped sofa, resting their cocktails on the gleaming teak table. Two additional speakers in the cockpit allow the party to continue outdoors.
The sleek, unintrusive portside galley is open to the salon, but clever design and configuration ensures the space never feels cramped. An extraordinary sense of flow and space predominates throughout, as a slight U-shaped solid surface countertop appears to seamlessly extend from the portside settee.
Minimalist but functional, it offers all the amenities you need to cook up and impressive meal for your guests: a stainless-steel under-mount sink with a cover and pull-out faucet, two-burner induction cooktop, stainless steel two-drawer fridge-freezer, a convection microwave, and plenty of storage in drawers and lockers below the counter. This layout encourages conversation, allowing guests to interact with the kitchen – and the cook – from the lounge.
Captains will delight at the glorious cherrywood helm console to starboard, which features two Volvo-Garmin multifunction displays, a Dynamic Positioning System, armrest-mounted joystick, slow speed, single lever, and cruise control capabilities. From two adjustable Ultraleather Stidd seats, you and your companion can plan your next adventure, gazing out at the open sea through a cherry-framed windscreen that evokes the golden age of the Maine coast. The visibility feels endless, the boat is underway, your favorite coffee is in the cupholder. That thing you always talked about is finally happening.
Below deck, you’ll find the versatile and customizable starboard hybrid lounge, which can be used as a home office, guest berth, or a true lounge. Whatever your needs, this space is a surprising oasis that feels separate from the rest of the boat, perfect for problem-solving, contemplation, or rest. A U-shaped settee with a table provides space for a laptop and papers, but by night it can transform into a spacious double berth, with drawers and storage beneath. A large head to port features a toilet, mirror-backed sink, and a separate shower cubicle perfect for daily use.
The curved lines of the 43 SE join at the private owner’s suite, which is situated at the bow. This space is the perfect retreat after a day of cruising. Before drifting off in the centrally positioned queen bed, you can peer up into the skylight and count the stars. Cherry hull ceilings provide a sense of warmth and intimacy, while teak and holly floors add flair and connect the space to the rest of the boat. Underbed drawers, a large starboard cedar-lined hanging locker, a portside bureau with three drawers, and built-in shelves and cabinets provide ample storage for your belongings. This cabin enjoys private access to the aft portside day head, which functions as an en suite when no guests are on board.
Sabre’s heritage and forward-thinking come through in this yacht’s smooth, responsive performance and wide speed range. Though a range of engine options are offered, the standard 380mhp Volvo Penta D6 IPS-500 engines reach a projected top speed of 30 knots, propelling the deep-V planing hull through the waves with expert ease. Access to the spotless white gel-coated engine room is found beneath a hatch in the cockpit, where the engines are positioned aft. The result of this positioning is much more storage space beneath the salon, which can store a washer and dryer for longer trips.
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