“The best feature is how comfortable TWR is! Under way or on the mooring or dock. Her maneuverability is excellent and comfortable and allows anyone to manage her by giving any captain confidence.”
The William Rose, Sabre 42’
Interview with the Captains – Douglas and Christine Emond
About the Boat
Why did you choose to buy a Sabre?
We owned a 2003 38 Sabre also named “The William Rose” and we were really impressed with the quality of Sabre. We did shop around, but kept going back to the Sabre product line. The 42 we purchased offered today’s technology with fine Maine craftsmanship and all the options we wanted.
What other kinds of boats did you consider before buying this particular model (and how did they compare)?
We looked at MJM, Grand Banks, Back Cove. They each had their specific pros/cons, and all are made very well. For our tastes and options, the Sabre product line kept being the one to compare to, and it was what we wanted.
How did you come to find/locate her before purchasing (and what’s the boat’s history if you know it)?
We found a broker who responded well to our wants. He differentiated himself by his willingness to guarantee a top dollar trade in value for our 38 Sabre while getting our new boat at our price point. Overall, he listened to what we wanted.
Our boats history: we are her third owner. Previous two owners sadly had either passed away or became ill. The broker found our 42 while it was still ‘off market’ all adding up to an opportunity for us.
What features/improvements have you added, or do you plan to add?
We have upgraded a number of items (here is a list of some): all new marine electronics (Raymarine Axiom), all new TV/Audio/ surround sound, all new safety features, solar to run electronics, Sure Shade, new cushions and covers throughout, updated all wood maintenance, complete overall of engine room and storage areas, all mechanical (engine and Pod Drive train) updated with scheduled maintenance, and activated most electrics to run as is or remote.
What are the features you like most about your boat?
The best feature is how comfortable TWR is! Under way or on the mooring or dock. Her maneuverability is excellent and comfortable and allows anyone to manage her by giving any captain confidence.
Who first introduced you to boating/sailing?
My father introduced me to boating at a very young age. He loved his Boston Whalers (15 sport, 17 Montauk, 18 Outrage). We had a cabin on Lake George where we would be on the water most days all summer long. I had access to the Whalers and sunfishes and that left an impression to always want to be on the water.
Do you belong to a yacht club or other boating/sailing organizations?
We have been members of the Eastern Yacht Club (EYC) for some time now. I am a past Treasurer of the EYC. We also raced PHRF for a number of years and got to know many Marbleheaders competitively.
What boats have you previously owned?
15 Boston Whaler Sport (named Tri Star), 18 Boston Whaler Outrage (no name), 25 Pearson (sail named “The William Rose”), 40 C&C (sail also named “The William Rose”), 25 Boston Whaler Temptation (named “As Good As It Gets”, 24 Boston Whaler Outrage (currently owned by us and was called “Krabby Patty” then retrofitted upgrade now called “Odyssey”), 38 Sabre (named “The William Rose”)
How do you typically use your boat over the summer, and where do you go?
We like to cruise both down east and to the Cape and Islands. We use the EYC annual Cruise as a mainstay get away and then we plan shorter long weekend trips with friends. We also spend none cruising time on weekends going from Boston to Gloucester.
What is the biggest challenge you have in servicing your boat?
We are very fortunate to have Marblehead Trading Company take care of our boats. They are always looking ahead to what needs to be maintained or upgraded. We are very lucky in the regard. Great crew and service at Marblehead Trading Company.
Do you have any notable boating resources you use?
We try to stay on top of things that would pertain to our Sabre. Sabre serves as a solid resource as well. They are very committed to their customer base.
Do you have any advice for those looking to buy a Sabre like yours?
Best advice is to shop around. We know the market is hot now, so timing is everything. Don’t make it a personal decision: rather there will always be boats for sail. Granted in today’s market you may have to wait.
What’s the story behind the boat’s name?
William is our son Patrick’s middle name and Rose is our daughter Catherine’s middle name. Both my wife and I are of Irish decent, so it works well for us.
Click the gallery below for more photos and information about The William Rose!
