When LEGO announced the reimagining of Jabba’s Sail Barge (Set 75397) in 2025, it felt like a long-overdue return to one of Star Wars’ most iconic scenes. Combining nostalgic appeal with modern design sensibilities, this set quickly became one of the most talked-about releases in the LEGO Star Wars summer wave. Naturally, I had to build it the old-fashioned way, at the kitchen table, with scattered bags, a curious Rose peeking at the minifigs, and Luke asking whether he could stage a Sarlacc Pit battle before I’d even finished the hull.
Let’s dive into why Jabba’s Sail Barge deserves a place on your LEGO shelf, or even better, in your Tatooine MOC.
Set Details
- Name: Jabba’s Sail Barge
- Set Number: 75397
- Piece Count: 1,329
- Minifigures: 8 (Jabba the Hutt, Leia in Boushh disguise, Luke Skywalker, Max Rebo, EV-9D9, R2-D2 (drink tray), Skiff Guard, Ree-Yees)
- RRP: €169.99 / $159.99
- Theme: Star Wars – Return of the Jedi 40th Anniversary
- Release Date: June 2025
The Build Experience
From the first Technic beams to the final tan tiles on the upper deck, this build was an absolute joy. What struck me early on was how well LEGO managed the complexity. The structure is modular, making it easy to tackle in bite-sized sittings (or in our case, between cups of tea and Rose sneaking Jabba away to the DUPLO box).
Standout features included:
- A slide-out interior that reveals the jail cell, galley, and throne room.
- Functioning blast panels on either side.
- A working rear deck cannon and rotating side turrets.
- A compact but detailed Max Rebo Band stage.
What’s new in 75397 versus the 2013 version is not just improved part usage, but smarter techniques. Hinged walls are more robust. Jabba’s throne now slides forward with a trapdoor below it (yes, there’s a printed rancor bone). And there’s space for Leia to sneak up on Jabba with her chain, more on that mini-figure later.
Mini-figure Highlights
The mini-figure selection alone makes this set desirable for collectors.
- Jabba the Hutt returns in all his slug-like glory, now with printed detail around his eyes and a slight green fade on the tail—his best version to date.
- Leia (Boushh disguise) is excellent. A dual-moulded helmet and face print (with the detonator!) add serious play and display value.
- Luke Skywalker (Jedi Knight) finally comes with a fabric cloak that isn’t awkwardly oversized.
- Max Rebo has been updated with a new rubberised head sculpt and even tiny printed piano keys.
- EV-9D9 and the Skiff Guard give it that grimy desert feel, and Ree-Yees is just pure vintage joy.
For kids? It’s an instant playset. For AFOLs? The fig lineup feels like an OT homage done right.
Display and Playability
Jabba’s Sail Barge measures over 50cm long and has a great shelf presence. From afar, the tan and dark brown color scheme evokes the original film aesthetics perfectly. Up close, the detailing on the railings, the use of dark nougat slopes, and even subtle stickers give it a textured finish.
From a playability perspective:
- The hinged sides open easily without disassembly.
- Stud shooters are discreetly integrated into the side guns.
- A side ramp can be lowered to load prisoners—or stage a daring escape.
It’s big enough to work as a standalone piece, but also fits well next to the 2024 Skiff set (or the Mos Eisley Cantina if you’re going all-in on Tatooine).
Darren’s Verdict (and a Rose Cameo)
Midway through the build, I realised I hadn’t had this much fun with a Star Wars set in a whle. There’s something about building a scene from your childhood, watching Luke battle guards while Leia strangles Jabba, that still lands. It’s not just a ship; it’s a moment.
Rose was obsessed with the Max Rebo figure, and tried to get him to “sing in the bakery” (a subplot unrelated to Jabba’s court, but entertaining nonetheless). Luke, for his part, wanted to stage a full Sarlacc pit out of spare parts and Baseplates 48×48. That’s what LEGO is all about: the nostalgia and the next generation blending into something playful.
Final Thoughts: Is 75397 Worth It?
If you’re a Star Wars collector or a fan of the Original Trilogy, 75397 is essential. Here’s why:
Pros
✔️ Excellent mini-figure lineup
✔️ Strong display and play potential
✔️ Detailed, movie-accurate interior
✔️ Jabba, Max Rebo, and Leia are all top-tier versions
Cons
➖ Some sticker usage, though minimal
➖ Slightly less exterior greebling than MOC-style barges
➖ Might be too big for smaller setups
Redmond Score: 9.1/10
A triumphant return to the sands of Tatooine. Perfect for AFOLs, exciting for kids, and a must-own for fans of Return of the Jedi.
