Glamour model

SACS RIBs make an immediate impression with their high-class styling, assertive performance, large floor space and stability.

3C Marine Group has delivered almost 30 boats, with more to come. These craft come straight from the factory in Milan, including the Italian attention to detail that has set them apart from other RIB manufacturers.

The SACS Rebel 40 has been unveiled, complementing the rest of the SACS range making a home in Australian waters. Downsizing is not downgrading, far from it. The Rebel 40 features the same quality and styling of its larger stablemates.

As the new Rebel 40 made its way to Cockatoo Island it was instantly recognisable, thanks to its burnt orange cushions and silver exteriors. Slicing effortlessly through the water, it was clear that this RIB would give us a smooth ride as we ventured out to catch a glimpse of the F50s doing battle ahead of the SailGP.

As we passed under the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the first SACS Rebel 40 bought to Australia was turning heads.

This model’s configuration was designed in part by Ocean Editor-in-Chief, Hillary Buckman during last year’s Cannes Yachting Festival. “It was an exciting project, though also quite nerve-racking selecting the overall colour palette for the hull, exterior seating and interiors”, says Hillary Buckman. “With burnt orange being my favourite colour, I couldn’t go past this dynamic colour for the exterior fabrics. I think it works so well for such a high-performance luxury RIB – we worked the rest of the colours around this selection. SACS wanted something to attract attention, and I think we well and truly managed this!”

As standard, the Rebel 40 is kitted out with a white hull, white deck, white tubes, grey rubbing strake and ivory cushions. However, if you’re feeling creative, you can add some personality by configuring the layout and colours to your preference, along with a whole host of extra options.

Produced in Milan under the direction of renowned designer Christian Grande, the Rebel 40 features all the hallmarks of the brand, including the deep-V hull, low centre of gravity and durable tubes. Every detail has been meticulously crafted to an exacting standard, making the Rebel 40 not just reliable, but also able to complement the lifestyle of even the most sophisticated boaters.

This latest entry into the range is even more accessible for boaters who want a great day out on the water without complications.

As with the entire SACS range, the Rebel 40 combines the best features of a traditional dayboat and a true RIB.

With excellent handling and manoeuvrability, darting across the harbour on the Rebel 40 was a breeze. It provides exceptional control via the Isotta steering wheel and the ride is incredibly quiet thanks to the battery powered engines.

The large anti-collision foam filled D-shape tubes are designed to sit in the water, effectively self-trimming, which provides excellent stability and smooth driving.

The version we ventured out on is fitted with a Fusion audio system and Raymarine navigation and radio system. The cockpit on the Rebel 40 is definitely the command centre of the boat; the anti-refraction black dashboard contains the digital control panel with vandal proof switches. It allows you to manage almost every aspect of the RIB, including monitoring the engine via Volvo Penta dash displays.

The stylish design of the hard top extends down to the front of the centre console, before merging with the front sunbeds.

Wide walk-around side decks with stainless steel handrails extending to the bow. Underway, the nose raises right out of the water, so there is no chance of getting wet. The forward sundeck has plush seating which offers comfort from an elevated view. There is even a Helka showerhead located in the bow for a washdown and easy maintenance.

The deck is real teak and there are clever design features such as hidden mooring cleats. The double chaise longue with headrest and rails covers the engine garage, which opens easily with electric buttons.

Making our way around Shark Island to settle off Milk Beach in Hermit Bay, we adjourned to the inviting L-shaped lounge for some chilled champagne, retrieved from the handy fridge in the cockpit bar, behind the helm station.

Being out on the water on a sunny summer’s day is what the Rebel 40 was built for.

Whether entertaining in the cockpit on the comfortable sofas, with teak table and kitchen modules, diving off the wide bathing platform or sunbathing on the huge aft folding sunbeds, this is a great dayboat.

All in all, the Rebel 40 is capable of entertaining 14 people comfortably.

Accessed via teak steps, the interiors are truly remarkable for a boat this size, as the Rebel 40’s D-section tubes have been conceived for maximum living space on board and the deep hull design gives decent headroom. The master cabin boasts a double berth in the bow. Windows looking out to the waterline give the interiors plenty of light, with disappearing curtains for privacy. There is another berth aft, and enough space for additional seating at the foot at each bed.

The cabin, finished in teak veneer, is well equipped, with extra details like small recesses for storage, high quality light fixtures, distinct switches and clever use of cupboard space. There is also a showerhead and bathroom suite with all the luxuries of much bigger boat, including a washbasin and electric marine toilet.

Boat owners looking for a thrilling day boat with stability, a dry ride and something different from the norm – take note. The Rebel 40 combines quality construction and scene-stealing Italian style.

It also has racing pedigree, robust enough to head offshore competently, equipped with twin 370 Volvo Penta D6 engines as standard and capable of speeds of up to 40 knots.

A maxi RIB with a focus on design details, the Rebel 40 offers the same sporting character and winning lines of the Rebel range, but in a more compact package.

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