As always in a test, it all starts with the grip. On the Sabor 7.80, the steering wheel is comfortable for the hands, with smooth steering. The seat is stiff, which has the advantage of quickly transmitting the sensations of the boat and not sinking in sluggishly. Feet are well supported on the footrest, but the steering wheel is not adjustable. Those over 1.80 m tall will find it a little low. Finally, the view of the boat and its surroundings is unobstructed.
No need for 500 hp max
The Sabord 7.80's engine is not in its maximum 500 hp configuration, but there are 2 x 150 Suzuki DF ATLs fitted with a 16 x18.5" 3-blade propeller. Enough to push fast and far. We'll see later.
Maneuverable even without thruster
In harbor maneuvers, the Sabor is precise, with no need for a bow thruster thanks to its contained length of 7.80 meters, moderate daggerboard and 2.80-meter beam. The throttle is responsive and smooth, allowing precise positioning of the boat.
Off Canelas beach in this superb Ria de Pontevedra, the sea is flat, with 2 to 3 knots of wind and 2 people aboard this 2.5-ton Sabor.
Gas !!!!
Once the water has been scanned, it's time to test the standing start: 5 seconds 41 to reach the schedule, which is achieved without losing sight of the horizon. Although the bow is high, it doesn't interfere with visibility. The rise in power, and therefore speed, is fairly linear in the lower revs: 1,000 rpm at 4 knots, then 2,000 rpm at 8, up to a cruising speed of around 20 knots at 3,500 rpm. With a moderate fuel consumption of 16 liters per hour per engine, the optional 400-liter fuel tank is ideal for long voyages.
Stable and predictable at the helm
Once settled into its lines, the Sabor 7.80 is particularly stable and predictable at the helm. There's no parasitic rolling motion, and the boat feels "dry": spray is carried far aft, while the cockpit and windshield remain perfectly dry. If you have fun timing the time it takes to reach 20 knots, you'll find a time of 7 seconds, which is a very good performance for a fishing boat. If you want to give your passengers a bit of adrenalin (always respecting navigation and safety rules), you can enjoy the sensations at the helm.
33 knots max
Top speed is 33.6 knots. This is correct and sufficient, as high speed is not what the Sabor is really about. It's designed to connect dots on a map, not to impress its pontoon neighbors. And it has to be said that it fulfills this role perfectly.
Getting down to the nitty-gritty of dynamics, it's time to test its handling. In tight bends, the Sabor leans firmly and turns short without the engines cavitating. This is an important safety factor to bear in mind, especially in sailing areas where currents and shallows may require unforeseen course changes.
At medium and high speeds, it's the same in the bends. The 7.80 gives the helmsman confidence in the effectiveness of the motor-hull torque, and the boat doesn't take on an inordinate angle.
For all water bodies
When the water is calm, as it is today, we have to look for other boats to cross their wake and observe the Sabor's course keeping. The boat easily handles the pronounced wakes of heavy boats without slamming into the water or affecting steering.
Safety and ease of handling are two key elements of this unit. Repeat the exercise several times, and the first impression is confirmed and becomes self-evident. The Sabor's sporty fishing line and the shipyard's great reputation in Spain make this a boat that keeps all its promises. With a plus for versatility. The height of the bulwarks and the overall safety once on board, whether through the handrails or the gates, make this a very suitable model for taking your whole tribe out to share your passion for the sea.
