The new Sacs maxi RIB is the ideal choice for owners looking for the perfect mix of sporty and deluxe
The new Sacs Strider 13 debuted at the Cannes Boat Show last September. The redesign of the already successful model, which set the bar for success in the maxi RIB segment, was entrusted to Christian Grande, who increased the dimensions of the new model and introduced a number of innovations.
Introducing the new Strider 13
The changes are so many we can say this is a completely new RIB โ and just like its predecessor, will set new standards in its segment. Having already reviewed both the smaller Strider 11 and the larger Strider 15, we found the new Strider 13 to strike a unique balance between performance, comfort and versatility.
So whatโs so special about it? First, the hull has been completely changed, to combine the performance of a sports RIB with the comfort of a yacht fit for longer cruises. Length of the new model has been increased by 12 cm, while beam has grown by impressive 50 centimeters in comparison to the previous model.
Key upgrades from the previous model
Despite its larger dimensions, the new Strider 13 has retained the beloved low profile and can now boast an even more dynamic, sporty look. These new dimensions have allowed for the placement of three pilot seats at the command console, a much wider entrance and stairs to the cabin, placement of two tables in the cockpit, wide side passages and more space on the aft and forward sundecks.
The cabin now has two separate double beds and a bathroom with a shower, which makes the model more comfortable and attractive for longer stays at sea. The diameter of the tubes has been increased from 55 cm to 73 cm, while the number of chambers has been increased from eight to nine, making the new model even safer in navigation.
Sea trials of the SACS Strider 13
The unit we tested was powered by two Volvo D6 diesel engines with 400 horsepower each, placed under the spacious stern sundeck. We achieved a cruising speed of 22 knots at 2560 rpm, with a consumption of 71 liters per hour, and our maximum speed was, while we achieved a maximum speed of 44 knots at 3580 rpm. During acceleration testing, the Strider planed after just seven seconds, effortlessly.
Our unit carried five passengers and about 800 liters of fuel, while the sea conditions were moderately rough and demanding. Despite the weather conditions, Strider 13 passed the test with flying colors, and no matter how hard we tried to catch it off guard, we couldn’t. All turns, all acceleration or deceleration were executed without tilting, slipping or spraying.
Driving comfort and visibility
The robust windshield and the adjacent hard top provide excellent protection from the wind at full speed, the seats are ergonomic, while the engine noise is mild you can talk to each other or enjoy music in navigation. While moving backwards, the skipper enjoys excellent visibility from the elevated steering position is excellent, and the RIB responds to the controls extremely precisely. In sudden decelration, the wave doesnโt flow over the aft platform, and the RIB stops promptly.
The command post is placed centrally and provides excellent visibility and comfort, and the central control console is dominated by two Raymarine multi-function touch screens displaying all the navigation data, stern camera footage or engine operation data. Engine controls, bow propeller controls and all other controls are conveniently placed and easily accessible to the skipper from both sitting or standing position.
Engine options: inboard vs outboard
The model can be powered by outboard engines, with the loss of the large teak-covered aft platform that comes as standard with inboard engines models. The front part of the cabin has been redesigned and now resembles the hood of a sports car, all the more so for the LED lights on each side that illuminate the side passages and the bow sundeck, as well as increase visibility in navigation.
The quality of all used materials and finishing are at the highest level, and every details feels special. The model is available with several equipment packages, and with several additional customization options โ for example, the owner gets to choose color of the hull, teak, rubber tubes, cabin, hard top or joinery.
Superyacht tender or private day cruiser
The increased dimensions of the new Strider 13 and its dynamic, sporty lines paired with equally sporty and dynamic performances guarantee that the new Sacs 13 will be a popular choice, be it as a tender for superyachts, a weekend getaway boat, or a day trip companion โ or moored in front of villas and hotels along the coast. Weโre sure the new Strider 13 will excel in any and all of these roles.
Photos & video SACS
