“She has a teak windshield, teak deck, teak forward mast and teak interior…a “one-of-a-kind” according to Glen Chaplin at Sabre Yachts.“
Aquila II, Sabreline 36’ Express
Interview with the Captain – Jeffrey Mansfield
About Your Boat
Why did you choose to buy a Sabre 36’ and what else did you consider?
My family and I chose to purchase a Sabre 36’ because we really love the Down East style and from our research, we learned that Sabre’s are well-made boats, making it the best choice for cruising, entertaining family and friends and handling with ease any day out on the Seas. Not to mention, we absolutely fell in love with Aquila II from across the country as we spotted her in California waiting for us to bring her back to the East Coast where she was made. We were also actually considering a center console because I enjoy fishing so much. In fact, we were looking at a Mako thinking it would be the boat to get back at the helm but my wife really thought the Sabre boat would encourage fun overnight trips and cruising.
What boats have you previously owned?
I have owned a 13’ Boston Whaler, a 21’ Aquasport, a 17′ Montauk Boston Whaler and a 23’ Mako, where I certainly did a lot of fishing.
What are the features you like most about your boat?
Our particular Sabre was a custom-build for the previous owner. She has a teak windshield, teak deck, teak forward mast and teak interior… a “one-of-a-kind” according to Glen Chaplin at Sabre Yachts. We love all these features and certainly all the room that the lazarette offers for our family and friends to gather and enjoy fun conversations/great meals and certainly libations. Lastly, the microcommander controls (throttle/gear) make it much easier to maneuver.
What features/improvements have you added or do you plan to add?
We actually just completed the upgrading to the electronics and VHF. We installed autopilot and radar as well. Since Aquila II was in California in fresh water her whole life, these were not necessary.
What is the biggest challenge you have in servicing your boat?
Taking care of all the bright work is a challenge but well worth it. I am fortunate to have the right people assisting me: mechanically it’s Guy Crudele Repair, Inc.; electronics it’s Clipper City Marine Services; and detailing it’s Infinity Marine Services.
Who first introduced you to boating?
My Mom is responsible for sure! She is a sailor and loved to race since she was a little tyke. In fact, at only two months’ old, she had me tied to the mast of her 110 “Pam’s Pram.” I love the ocean and in my much younger days (since 15 and into my twenties), I commercially lobstered and crewed on a company yacht for summer jobs.
Do you have any advice for those looking to buy a Sabre like yours?
Yes, I definitely recommend these well-made boats but like any purchase, have an excellent/reputable marine surveyor to thoroughly inspect her beforehand. Also, find a boat whose previous owner took really great care of the boat just like we are.
What’s the story behind the boat’s name?
The former owner named her Aquila II, and given we also like the name, we felt we should keep that name for good luck. Aquila is the Latin and Romance language for eagle. Also, Aquila (constellation), is the astronomical constellation “the Eagle.” According to classic Greek mythology, Aquila was the eagle that carried the thunderbolts of Zeus!
Any recent boating-related purchase you’ve been enjoying (e.g. – product/tool/equipment, etc.)?
The boat is still quite new to us as we purchased her in October 2019, but after reading Alexander Falk’s comments, I will be purchasing a Sionyx hand-held color night-vision device! I also would love to see how to put a solor panel on her to help keep the refrigerator running longer.
Are there any other notable resources you like to use (apps/devices, etc.)?
I plan to download the Simrad App to my iPhone. It is my understanding that I can plan routes in advance and many other useful pre-programs.
Check it Out
Click the gallery below for more photos and information about Aquila II!
