Rebel 16 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Rebel 16 in 1948 marked a pivotal moment in boat building, as it is credited with being the first production fiberglass sailboat in the United States. Its development was a collaborative effort between Ray Greene and Alvin Youngquist, utilizing fiberglass samples from Owens-Corning Fiberglass to pioneer this new construction method. Ray Greene & Co. initially sold 25 of these 700-pound Rebels in the first year of production. The boat's early adoption of fiberglass reflects a forward-thinking manufacturing ethos, laying the groundwork for the widespread use of the material in the marine industry. Nickels Boat Works, a company with a long history in quality craftsmanship, became a key builder of the Rebel 16, known for its precision in building hulls to strict class specifications for various one-design racing boats.

During its production run, a slightly modified version, known as the Rebel II, was introduced, featuring narrower side decks and a wider cockpit. This evolution indicates a refinement of the original design to potentially enhance ergonomics or accommodate evolving sailing preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Rebel 16, with its length overall of 16.1 feet and a lightweight displacement of 700 pounds, is characterized as a stable and forgiving centerboard dinghy, well-suited for daysailing and racing. Its wide beam of 6.62 feet contributes significantly to its inherent stability, allowing it to stand up to wind effectively and provide a comfortable motion, even for new sailors. Equipped with a steel centerboard weighing 110 pounds, the Rebel 16 can be sailed with a draft as shallow as 0.5 feet with the board up, extending to 3.5 feet with the board fully deployed, offering versatility for navigating shallow waters or enhancing upwind performance.

Anecdotal evidence from owners often praises the Rebel 16 for being a fun and easy boat to sail, particularly for teaching beginners. While not designed as a high-performance racing machine like some other small boats, it offers a balanced helm and responsive handling, making it an enjoyable experience on the water. The fractional sloop rig, with a total sail area of approximately 166 square feet, provides ample power for spirited sailing while remaining manageable for a singlehanded sailor or a small crew.

Accommodations and Layout

As a 16-foot sailing dinghy, the Rebel 16 offers a straightforward and open cockpit layout, typical for its class, rather than enclosed accommodations or extensive interior features. The design prioritizes sailing functionality and space for crew or passengers during a day out on the water. While specific details on interior finish quality and materials are not extensively documented, dinghies of this era and type typically feature durable fiberglass construction throughout the cockpit, often complemented by wood trim for aesthetic appeal or functional elements like thwarts and coaming caps.

The open design means there is no enclosed cabin or significant headroom. Storage is generally limited to small compartments or areas under the thwarts, suitable for essential safety gear, small coolers, and personal items. Ventilation relies entirely on the open nature of the cockpit. The primary focus of the Rebel 16's layout is to provide a safe, stable, and accessible platform for sailing, whether for leisurely cruises or competitive one-design racing. The centerboard trunk is a prominent feature within the cockpit, usually managed by a tackle system under the foredeck, allowing for easy raising and lowering of the board.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Rebel 16 consistently highlight its robust construction and user-friendly characteristics. Many appreciate its suitability as a first sailboat or a family-friendly vessel for teaching sailing, owing to its remarkable stability and forgiving nature. Owners frequently commend the boat for being "cheap and fun," noting that many are actively used, often more so than larger keelboats. The general consensus points to the Rebel 16 as a highly "repairable" boat, allowing owners to easily maintain and restore older models.

A recurring positive sentiment is the strong sense of community surrounding the Rebel 16, with a supportive class association and active online forums where owners share advice and experiences. While specific common problems are not widely reported as critical design flaws, typical issues for older fiberglass boats, such as general wear and tear, cosmetic imperfections, and the need for basic maintenance like re-bedding fittings, are to be expected. Owners often express satisfaction with their Rebel 16s, frequently describing them as excellent value, especially given their accessibility through various means, including finding them for free or at very low costs.