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Years in Business

Welcome to RS Marine Group. We design, manufacture and distribute boats (leisure, racing and commercial). Our products are enjoyed worldwide by individuals, sailing schools, race teams, and businesses.

RS Marine Group includes RS Sailing, RS Electric Boats, Cheetah Marine and Ocean Play. The group makes over 35 boats, including the distinctive RS Aero, RS Feva, Pulse 63, Cheetah Catamarans, and the classic Pico, among others.

Our key drivers include sustainability, accessibility and world-class products.

We pride ourselves on retaining our small-business personal style while delivering our world-leading sustainable strategies.

RS Sailing was born from a passion to use the latest design and technology to create inspiring boats. Evolving from their heritage in flat-out racing classes, RS Sailing’s range has grown over the last three decades to make modern, durable and fun dinghies, keelboats and catamarans. Their boats have been developed to move the game forward for racers, beginners, families, clubs and schools.

RS Sailing are proud to have built some of the most vibrant class communities, to have been chosen by leading organisations globally, to have hosted world-class events and to have a global dealer network that are as passionate about the future of sailing. But most importantly, from their humble beginning, they have grown to become the world’s largest small sailboat brand – #sailitliveitloveit.

RS Electric Boats was initially created to develop an electric RIB for sailing schools and events. After the success of the Pulse 63, with its first fully integrated electric drive, the company is now developing its range of commercial and leisure electric boats.

RS Electric Boats’ Pulse 63 is already known for its rugged spacious designs, ease of manoeuvring, practical natures and innovative credentials.

The commercially focused Pulse 63 is specifically designed for law enforcement, border protection, security, and marinas. It is available in leisure and superyacht configurations for private boat owners who want to reduce their carbon footprint.

Cheetah Marine has been designing and building custom power catamarans since 1989 on the Isle of Wight and, more recently, in Portugal. Fishermen, patrols, police, hydrographic survey, charter companies and more use the catamarans. They’re specifically designed to combat rough weather with outstanding stability.

In 2022, RS Marine Group developed an EV-ready Cheetah Adventure prototype catamaran, which offers stable spacious comfort, side access and roof rack storage to families who want to open up access to coastlines and take all their kit with them.

Ocean Play manufactures and distributes Picos, Bugs, Bahias and Vagos (from Roto, Slovenia) as well as offering worldwide customer services.

In 2022, elements of the four sailing school classic designs were updated, ready for customers in the UK and overseas who are seeking to replace their favourite classics.

Ocean Play was founded in 2022 after Jo Richards (designer of the four boats) approached RS to take up the production challenge.

Over the Years

RS Racing Sailboats born

RS Sailboats start trading as RS, selling boats, sails, trailers, clothing and spares for sailing.

London Dinghy Centre born

H.Taylor & Son (Brockley) Ltd start trading as LDC (London Dinghy Centre) Sailing when Howard Taylor opens a chandlery selling sailing dinghies, parts and clothing.

First cheetah built

Sean Strevens designs and builds the first Cheetah Catamaran. Sean’s design incorporates everything needed to launch and recover from the shore in a swell.

Cheetah Marine LTD Founded

Cheetah Marine begins producing catamarans with a small team of highly skilled GRP boat building specialists.

LDC Sailboat brand idea

Martin Wadhams and Nick Peters, at LDC’s helm, have the idea to create a sailboat brand.

RS Racing born

RS Racing (still known as RS) is born when the RS400 & RS600 are launched at the London Boat Show, bringing modern, high performance designs to the mainstream.

RS Sailing Born

RS Racing becomes RS Sailing (still known as RS) with the first polyethylene boat in the range, the RS Feva, designed for training and recreational sailing as well as racing. The international RS dealer network begins to be built.

RS Sailing Store Expands

RS Sailing Store expands as a chandlery and offers spare and repairs for all RS Sailing boats.

New CEOs for RS Sailing

Jon Partridge and Alex Newton Southon step up to CEOs with ambitious plans for expansion.

RS Electric Boats born

RS Electric Boats unveils the Pulse 58, a fully electric, sustainable RIB.

Pulse 63 launched

Extensive R&D and testing lead to the even more efficient Pulse 63.

Cheetah Partnership

RS and Cheetah Marine become partners. Both businesses know they can share knowledge, skills and resources to achieve mutual ambitions.

ocean play born

RS takes on the production of Pico, Bahia, Bug and Vago sailing dinghies under the Ocean Play brand.

RS Marine Group born

RS Marine Group launches in late 2022 following continued expansion and collaborations of RS Sailing, RS Electric Boats, Cheetah Marine and Ocean Play.

WORLD CLASS PRODUCTS

We’ve been building world-class products since 1989, creating innovative designs that reflect our customer’s sense of adventure and performance requirements. Latterly we’ve focused on the need to protect the environment in every way we can.

Our guiding principle – of using the latest design and technology to make higher performance available to everyone – infuses every decision we make. And that’s why we win awards, retain customers for decades and are known for making fun, practical, world-class boats.

We are doing everything we can to help lead the marine world towards sustainability. This is reflected in our product choices, material choices, manufacturing choices and distribution choices.

We’ve gone electric with the Pulse 63, offering the world a viable alternative to fossil-fueled RIBs. We’re making Cheetah Marine designs EV-ready so that when the electric power matches the demands of – for example – the North Sea, it’s a straightforward switch.

Within RS Sailing, we use eco-friendly construction (like bio-derived resins and recycled core materials on the RS21). Plus, the boat’s been designed to stack in containers meaning six 21-foot boats can be transported in a 40-foot container, saving transport costs – and emissions.

We know where we want to be, and we’re getting there.

SUSTAINABILITY

Sustainable at the core, accessibility, boating for all.

We believe everyone can enjoy the water. This is why we are passionate about making boating accessible. RS Sailing launched the RS Venture Connect SCS in 2011. The SCS model was specifically designed to make sailing and racing accessible to almost everyone. The boats’ design is straightforward, with plug and play options (including sip/puff electronic controls) so that the boat can be configured for most disabilities.

Cheetah Marine has long been WetWheels Foundation’s chosen boat builder. The Wetwheels Foundation was established in 2011 in the Solent, UK. The charity is all about barrier-free boating and provides the opportunity for all disabled people, including those with profound and complex disabilities, the opportunity to take to the sea onboard purpose-built, fully accessible powerboats.

How RS Marine Group works

Recognising skills and developing synergies are at the heart of everything we do. We believe that together we are better, and this has been reflected in the working practices at RS over the decades.

The Group is constantly finding new and exciting ways of sharing resources such as design, knowledge, industry experience, and streamlining production to further our ambitions for high-performance, sustainable, accessible and fun boats.

Diverse opinions, challenges and solutions lead our innovation strategies. The discussion – led primarily by our sailing community from across all the businesses – feeds the ethos of the group’s continuous evolution.

RS Sailing grew through its inclusive culture, not only by producing world-leading dinghies but also through its extensive programme of events focused on competition and fun. The explosive growth of the RS community was built on the love of the RS products, great time on the water, and the celebrations around the events, which continues to this day.

This culture and family-like atmosphere continues throughout the RS Marine Group in everything we do. The world-class products are only made possible by our growing world-class team and, of course, by you, our customers and supporters.

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• Sailboat Guide

RS Aero is a 13 ′ 1 ″ / 4 m monohull sailboat designed by Jo Richards and built by RS Sailing starting in 2014.

• 2 / 9 Westport, CT, US 2019 RS Aero $7,000 USD View
• 3 / 9 Stuart, FL, US 2021 RS Aero $8,000 USD View
• 4 / 9 Westport, CT, US 2019 RS Aero $7,000 USD View
• 5 / 9 Stuart, FL, US 2021 RS Aero $8,000 USD View
• 6 / 9 Westport, CT, US 2019 RS Aero $7,000 USD View
• 7 / 9 Stuart, FL, US 2021 RS Aero $8,000 USD View
• 8 / 9 Stuart, FL, US 2021 RS Aero $8,000 USD View
• 9 / 9 Stuart, FL, US 2021 RS Aero $8,000 USD View

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

The RS AERO is a single hander available with a number of rig sizes. (for varying size/weight sailors)

RS AERO 5: 5.2m2/54sq.ft. RS AERO 7: 7.4m2/77sq.ft. RS AERO 9: 8.9m2/93sq.ft.

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RS Venture: Best Recreational Dinghy

• By Dave Reed
• Updated: December 13, 2012

Purpose: club trainer/racer Recommended race crew: 3 to 4 Best attributes: open cockpit, high buoyancy, construction quality, and versatility Price as sailed: $14,000 www.rssailing.com

RS Sailboats is fast becoming the world’s preeminent small-boat builder. RS produces a long line of high-performance skiffs, and an expansive range of rotomolded dinghies for tykes and adults alike, but what they didn’t have until now was a boat for the recreational sailing masses. When the judges first laid eyes on the 16-foot RS Venture , they immediately thought “sailing schools,” but when they were done sailing, they saw its greater potential.

The boat is in some ways a modern Flying Scot—at about half the weight (436 vs. 850 pounds). It has all the right selling points for young families, clubs, and training programs: It’s roomy, buoyant, and has the essential sail controls. But most of all, concluded the judges, it’s lively and fun on all points of sail. Rich, the resident cynic and big-boat sailor of the panel, was surprised how much he enjoyed sailing the boat, and that it planed when he and Stewart set the asymmetric spinnaker. “It was easy, very stable, and moved along well,” said Rich. Stewart agreed: “Everything is where it should be. They [RS] say it can handle up to eight people, and I could definitely see that.”

Equally impressive, the judges agreed, was its construction. RS is renowned for being meticulous with its product development, and the Venture is Exhibit A. Every component was high quality and purposeful: roller-furling jib, single-line spinnaker launching system, fittings for a symmetric spinnaker option, vang above the boom, grab-rail mainsheet loop, and more. Its polyester glass construction was beautifully finished, and the non-skid was good.

A major consideration with recreational dinghies is righting from a capsize, and to this end, RS designed the boat around the ability to right it easily (even without the optional masthead float). The cockpit is self-draining, and when righted, it will come up with 3 to 4 inches of water in the boat, which flows out of the stern flaps.

“The key to a wide boat is keeping the buoyancy out of the sides,” said RS managing director Martin Wadhams. “If it floats too high, the centerboard is inaccessible.” Their solution was to use benches, which gives the boat a flatter floor, provides protected seating inside the boat, and puts the buoyancy into the floor instead.

“This is a great boat that I’d definitely recommend for families,” said Allen. “Especially with the asymmetric setup, the kids will learn everything they need to know.”

For more images of the RS Venture, click here . Read more about RS Sailboats here . To see the rest of 2013’s winners, click here .

• More: Boat of the Year , Boatbuilding , Dinghy , Monohull , RS , Sailboats
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Description

Manufactured using modern advanced technology the RS Aero answers the need for a new standard in one design racing and has earned rave reviews the world over.

The Aero started a revolution when it was released in 2015. Within two years, it was hosting Worlds with 100+ boats. This is truly the first singhlanded boat we’ve sold that has generated true excitement and passion out of the gate. The Aero offers more to like the more you get to know it. It is incredibly light - with a hull weight of 67 lbs (less than any boat we sell, and half the weight of other boats in the size range). It has a full epoxy hull with carbon reinforcement - a carbon mast and boom, carbon foils and a very modern sail plan. At an 88 lb fully rigged sailing weight, the Aero is ~50lbs(!) less than the hulls of other singlehanders. That lightness creates a sailing sensation that isn’t replicated anywhere else. The Aero will refine your skills, and reminds customers the world over why they got into dinghy sailing in the first place. With three rig options, men, women, and kids can experience the joy of a modern dinghy designed in the 21st century. Thousands sold worldwide, with close to 400 in the US by 2019. There are ~150 just on the West Coast of North America, from Vancouver to San Diego.

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You can also reach us at [email protected] or by calling 503-285-5536 ext2

Hull Design

• Chined hull design for stability at speed.
• Knife edge bow for upwind performance.
• Tapered width to reduce weight, while offering max width for righting moment.
• Reinforced mast step, with collar and with drain hole and integrated wear protector.

Three Rig System

• Dynamic three rig system for different sailor weights & conditions.
• 2-piece carbon mast section with interchangeable lower mast (Same setup as other popular dinghies).
• Top mast and boom are the same for all rigs.
• Mast track and halyard for ease of raising sail in any conditions.
• Modern composite mast allows for significant depowering in windy conditions.
• Vang, Cunningham, and Outhaul controls led to side decks for easy access.

Sails & Blades

• High denier Dacron sail fabric for shape and long life.
• Glass/Carbon blades are CNC milled.
• Vertical daggerboard for ease of use and minimal drag.
• Powerful rudder blade design gives endless control.

Construction

• Epoxy glass & carbon composite construction with a foam core.
• Everything non-essential removed to reduce weight and add durability.
• CNC machined tooling for maximum control over shape and symmetry.

Specifications

• Designer: Jo Richards/RS Sailing
• Length: 13 feet 2 inches
• Beam: 4 feet 7 inches
• Hull Weight: 67 lbs
• Construction: Epoxy glass & carbon composite with foam core
• Mast: 2-part carbon composite
• Boom: Carbon composite
• Foils: Epoxy composite with foam core
• Shop RS Aero Parts
• RS Aero Parts Locator
• RS Aero Rigging Guide
• RS Aero Class Association

Why West Coast Sailing

We represent a dozen sailboat brands from all around the world. Our dinghy sailboat inventory is second to none, with at least 100 boats in stock in our warehouse at any time. Our staff has extensive experience sailing, racing, rigging, coaching and delivering boats worldwide. This is what we do:

• Selection – 70+ models of boats from manufacturers around the world.
• Service – Our staff is focused on helping you Own The Water.
• Experience – The team here has decades of experience on all types of dinghies.
• Inventory – Over $1million of boats and parts inventory in stock at all times.
• Logistics – We have experience shipping boats all over the world, at reasonable rates, quickly.
• Rigging – We rig most boats by hand, and stand behind our work.
• Long Term Support – We are a leader in our industry, and we didn't get here by cutting corners. We have your back.
• Apparel and Accessories – We have the apparel, accessories, trailers and dollies to go with each boat.

Product Reviews (2)

A super boat with after sales support and active racing.

Posted by Peter Townend on Mar 9th 2020

A big ‘thank you’ from to all those involved in the design, development and production of this super boat; the award is well deserved. Further, the after sales support has in my experience been excellent and we have an active owners association, frankly, I don’t see how it could be much better.

The perfect single handed race boat!

Posted by Richard Willows on Mar 9th 2020

Just like to say after 4 days excellent sailing, I think this boat is great…meets all my requirements, light, responsive, testing but manageable…you deserve to sell these all over the world.

Shipping & Returns

Delivery Info: Enjoy Free Standard Shipping on most orders* to the Continental United States over $99. Our Standard Shipping method utilizes USPS, UPS, and FedEx to send packages near and far. Oversize/Freight shipping (where applicable), Expedited Shipping (where available), and rates to other destinations will be calculated at checkout.

See our Shipping Page for more information (and exceptions).

Returns Info: Your 100% satisfaction is our goal - we want you to love your sailing gear, but if something doesn't work out, we accept returns on most new, unused items*. Returns can be made within 366 days (1 year + 1 day) of your original order date. Exceptions include (and are not limited to) cut line, Rig Shop products, special order items, numbered sailors, and items used or worn sailing.

See our Returns Page for more information.

Prop 65 Warning

Related Products

RS Aero 5 Sail

RS Aero 7 Sail

RS Aero 9 Sail

RS Aero 5 Lower Mast Section

RS Aero 7 Lower Mast Section

RS Aero 9 Lower Mast Section

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RS Aero Hull Cover

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RS Sailboats – known worldwide for their quality and innovation Shoreline offers: Tera Sport, Zest, Neo, Feva XL, Aero, Quest, Cat 14, Cat 16, Venture, and RS21

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Description

RS Aero – 11,325.00 – $11,525.00

RS21 – $43,890.00 – $45,390.00

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Home » RS Aero

After years of development we believe the RS Aero is the most technically advanced boat in its sector. Which explains why it’s the most exciting and best-selling modern single-hander. And easily handled too. Astonishingly, the RS Aero weighs about the same as an Optimist. That drives everything about its incredible user friendliness through transporting, rigging and launching – before you even experience the addictive sensations afloat. Complex thinking leading to beautiful simplicity – the RS Aero ignites the pure excitement of sailing in its least complicated form. Three rig sizes enable youths, ladies and guys to enjoy the ride. Already an International Class and winner of the 2019 World Sailing Equipment Trails for the 2024 Men’s and Women’s One Person Dinghy Event, the community is building fast for the most competitive sailors. It’s a phenomenon. Just do it.

Exhilaration

• Ultra-light weight changes the game afloat and ashore.
• Sail an RS Aero for the pure exhilaration
• Lift on the roof alone or with a youngster – rig in minutes – launch with ease.

World Sailing International Class

• Incredibly fast growing around the world – by the best-selling modern single-hander.
• Event programmes building quickly
• World Championships from 2017 onwards
• One-design competition – RS community etho
• Testing shows that 4m length is long enough to support the larger helmsman, without being a handful for small sailors to launch and recover
• 1.4m beam conveniently fits a normal roof-rack
• A chined hull is the correct approach, giving the sailor more reserve stability
• The chine peels off spray when sailing down wind and gives greater dynamic stability
• The flatter hull panels of a chined hull allow construction from normal flat sheets of PU foam, reducing the weight of the core bond (cores designed to mould around tighter curves “absorb” more resin into their score cuts or honeycomb).
• The chine sits just below the water line amidships – for several advantages:
• A 35kg sailor gains approximately the same waterline beam and hence the same hull form stability as a heavier sailor
• The waterline beam and wetted surface does not change significantly with an increase in helm weight
• The RS Aero is so light there is less inertial mass to pull against when moving in during a lull or header – compensated for by the flatter hull and increased form stability from the buoyant chine area
• The chine has a small lip to reduce spray drag and for precise positioning of the computer cut foam panels during construction
• Fine bow for upwind sailing, stable mid sections and a relatively wide transom.
• Transom shape fine tuned to ensure the RS Aero planes bow up (analogous to the trim tabs on a powerboat stern).
• Vertical bows are common in “box rule” dinghies and yachts built to rating systems. We chose a raked bow for this one-design because measured waterline length pressures don’t apply and:
• It leads to greater flare in the forward 20% of the topsides, giving reserve buoyancy and forgiving handling in waves – it is easier and more efficient during the lamination process, leading to cost and consistency efficiencies in volume production – it makes the Aero’s valuable stacking system possible. Function over fashion.

Gunwale design

• As the RS Aero is relatively narrow we have optimised the width with the modern approach of running the gunwale parallel to the centreline in the aft half of the boat. Advantages are:
• Maximum righting moment wherever the helm sits out, irrespective of fore and aft position
• When capsized the topside buoyancy is kept to a minimum – the boat floats lower allowing easier reach to the daggerboard
• The abrupt change of deck line at the front of the cockpit allows a fine bow without pushing out the overall width or the topsides forward
• Easier to sit alongside a RIB or the dock
• More space to tie the mast sections alongside the boat on a roof-rack
• The boat can be stored or transported more easily on its side
• The hull and deck are joined with a conventional gunwale. We have used the “biscuit tin” (smooth) join for close to 10 years on the RS Elite, but chose a U section gunwale for the RS Aero because:
• It creates an important carbon laminate “box frame” around the boat and distributes rig loads through a light, efficient structure – it makes righting the boat from inverted faster and safer – the gunwale gives a significantly drier and more pleasant ride upwind & tight reaching – it makes the boat much easier to hold when launching and recovering, especially in waves.

Flat panel deck

• We have used, where possible, a flat panel deck to keep straight load-paths with structural corners – so minimizing weight.
• Numerous deck profiles were tested to maximise hiking comfort whilst maintaining good “kick off” surfaces when roll tacking – and a secure feeling when sailing downwind in breeze. Styling led temptation to cut-away the deck at the transom was resisted – it is useful to sit on when bearing away in extreme conditions.
• The mast step is located in the hull by a vertical pin during construction, ensuring mast rake and position are identical on all boats.
• The pin is removed after manufacture to leave a mast tube drain hole.
• There is a stainless steel wear protector at the base of the mast tube.

Stacking system

• The RS Aero is designed to stack – the hull above sits perfectly into the deck below.
• This allows three boats to be stacked on a conventional road trailer base with small pads between them – double and triple trailers are unnecessary.
• Efficient stacking allows over 30 boats to be loaded into a 40’ shipping container – minimising freight cost and carbon footprint in transport to dealers or regattas.

Construction

• Every aspect of the simple shape has been considered to minimise weight and maximise cost-efficient manufacture:
• Flatter panels on the chined hull allow construction from normal flat sheets of PU foam, reducing the weight of the core bond
• “Chine” angles on the deck add form stiffness without additional weight
• Low surface area reduces weight and material costs
• Simple shape reduces time in the manufacturing process
• Epoxy resin is used for its high strength and low water absorption properties.
• Woven glass matt is used throughout the hull.
• Carbon fibre is used in all high load areas such as the hull and deck around the mast step, the hiking region of the deck, all around the gunwales and transom.
• Due to its ultra-light weight and the high elongation at break (shatter resistance) of the epoxy resin system, the RS Aero has proved to be remarkably durable.
• Yet the boat is so astonishingly light it is possible to carry it up the beach single handed by holding the top of the daggerboard and the boom! Pulling the boat up the beach on a trolley makes you smile.
• Young sailors and small women can lift the RS Aero onto a roof-rack.
• The tooling has been CNC machined to give maximum control over shape and symmetry.

Dynamic Three Rig System

• From day one we assumed a requirement for three rigs of differing sail areas to cater for the desired crew weight range: RS Aero 5 – RS Aero 7 – RS Aero 9.
• We have developed rigs with sufficient control to totally flatten and twist the head of the sail upwind reducing the healing moment. This allows a greater sail area to be carried – a big benefit downwind and in lighter conditions.
• Working closely with a world-leading carbon fibre tube manufacturer we have produced the three rigs using a common top-mast and boom, yet radically differing stiffness bottom sections. The differing deck-level bend and stiffness of the three rigs ensure the boat is well balanced, without resorting to a permanently pre-bent lower section for the smallest sail.
• Even with the smallest RS Aero rig the sail-area : hull-weight ratio is significantly higher than most existing hiking single-handers, due to the incredibly light weight of the RS Aero. So even the RS Aero 5 enjoys the amazingly responsive feel that makes the boat so exciting.
• The largest rig is 5.5kg lighter than the equivalent in aluminium alloy and cutting-edge production method provides for tight stiffness and weight control.
• The tracked mast and halyard are more practical than a sleeved luff – much easier when stepping mast in breeze and suiting full length top battens.
• The rig is positioned well forward in the boat to provide a good distance between the mast and the centre-mainsheet to reduce sheet loads and for ease of gybing, without the risk of snagging associated with a transom led mainsheet.
• A new rig for lighter women – A new RS Aero “6” rig, for lighter women, has been in development over recent months. It will enhance the RS Aero’s suitability to build women’s participation in the Olympic arena – and the RS Aero Class is likely to introduce this rig anyway. We propose final design sign-off in conjunction with the WS team and Olympic level sailors as soon as applicable.
• This is the greatest area of conflict between styling pressures and the performance requirements of the RS Aero.
• It is not possible to produce a Mylar sail that will cope with the wide range of mast bend of a responsive carbon rig, in different wind strengths and on different points of sailing. This is due to the lack of bias (diagonal) stretch of the fabric. Mylar film is stable in all directions.
• We have, therefore, chosen a high denier Dacron sail fabric with a low filler content that offers good durability and a high level of user-friendliness.
• The RS Aero has a vertical daggerboard for ease of use.
• The daggerboard is glass/carbon construction from CNC milled tooling, to a modern section developed to reduce downwind drag whilst still generating enough lift upwind.
• The unusual profile is designed to fill the daggerboard hull slot until the point where the knuckle is reached – minimising drag.
• The tapered tip below the knuckle reduces tip losses.
• Evidence exists that a leading edge knuckle provides greater stability of flow – it is not uncommon in birds!
• Evolved during testing, the rudder blade’s low drag section and surface area are extremely effective.
• The custom-designed, high grade alloy rudder stock is of minimalist size.
• The rudder blade can be rotated to vertical whilst ashore and is well supported at all angles whilst afloat.
• Fit-out is simple whilst providing the rig control you need and enabling the boat to be rigged in moments.
• The centreline toe-strap is padded for comfort and adjustable to suit hiking style and sailor size.
• Functional and beautiful custom designed carbon fibre RS Aero options include brackets for Tack Tick or Velocitek electronics, a GoPro camera mount and tiller extension.

SPECIFICATIONS

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Why is the RS Quest the right sailboat for you?

The RS Quest is a modern sailboat that is packed full of innovative features, whether you’re a family looking for your next adventure or a program looking for a great training platform – you need to consider the RS Quest.

The durable rotomoulded polyethylene construction and reassuring stability makes the RS Quest the perfect platform for inspiring new sailors and maximizing the time you can spend afloat. Though 2-3 is the ideal crew size, an abundance of space inside the boat allows for comfortable sailing with up to 5 sailors. The control layout even allows for simple singlehanded sailing.

Previous boat designs have stood out for their unique features, but with the RS Quest the RS development team have designed the most versatile and rounded boat to hit the sailing market in decades.

Here's some of the innovative features:

Kick up rudder/Centerboard

Whether you’re sailing in shallow water or make contact with an underwater obstacle, the rudder and centerboard will simply kick up and allow you to keep sailing with no damage. Most other designs would be stopped in their tracks or suffer damage in these instances. These features also help with easy launch and recovery, from sandy beaches to tricky launches, stay in control of your adventure until the very end.

Center mainsheet – modern – great for a learning environment

With most modern sailboats rocking the center main system it’s easy to see why, with more ergonomic positioning, forward facing sailing and more precision when steering , what isn’t there to love? However, in true RS fashion there is always consideration of performance and a simple rope bridle center lines the main sheet to ensure optimal sail trim.

Wide ergonomic cockpit and hull

The RS Quest has class leading space, she is big enough to comfortably fit an instructor with 4 sailors or the entire family. With the substitution of a GNAV instead of a conventional boom vang there’s even more space upfront. Don’t let all this space put you off, the RS Quest is still small enough to handle easily ashore and afloat. The hull design lends to incredible stability on the water to allow sailors to trust the boat and inspire confidence. On land, the hull sits stable and flat allowing for easy storage or land drills. Yet the hull design has taken notes from big offshore performance racers offering stability while maintaining performance.

Versatility

The RS Quest has been packed full of features which has created a very diverse sailboat that can work across a spectrum of sailors and programs. The list of additional options is plentiful, allowing you to tailor the RS Quest to design a package that fit your needs and expand the boat’s versatility. Options include trapeze, mast float, asymmetrical or symmetrical spinnaker, outboard engine, removable foredeck with storage, and more. Whether you want to haul the entire family along with the kids hanging off the trapeze, or need to design an ideal adult learn to sail boat, it’s all possible.

Sailing with your family can be one of the most enjoyable or absolutely horrible experiences. The difference between the two can mean a lifetime of sailing or a family that wants to run for the nearest motorboat. Dealing with broken bits or a difficult boat to rig is challenging while being on the water having fun is invaluable. Offering an easy approach to sailing and user-friendly nature of the RS Quest will ensure a good time had by all in order to keep the whole family excited about going sailing every time.

Sailing Programs

While the RS Quest is great for all sorts of sailors, it has specifically been identified as the optimal sailing program boat for youth and adult sailors. The versatility, value, and durability are optimal for almost any sailing program. As boats age and replacement parts are no longer available, many programs have recognized the fit for the RS Quest. 

Mission Bay Aquatic Center , who replaced their Hobie Holders with 10 RS Quests in 2019, have created a great RS Quest tutorial .

More than 3,000 RS Quests have been sold to all types of sailors since it’s launch in 2015. 

Sailors throughout the world are recognizing the RS Quest as the boat to take their families, friends, and sailing programs into the future. From your first time afloat, to experienced day sailing – the RS Quest enables sailors to practice seamanship within their own ability level.

There is a very good chance are there are RS quests at a program or sailing by families near you. We love to hear from all sorts of sailors, to learn more about the RS Quest, where you can sail one, or just to say hello, please email us at  [email protected] .

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Advice & articles

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Zim Regional Roundtables Coming to Tampa, Chicago, and Cleveland

Three More Roundtable Events Scheduled for January and FebruaryBRISTOL, R.I. (January 10, 2024) - Zi

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Sailboat Manufacturer and Regional Sailing Association Collaborate to Improve Sailing Activitie

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RS ELITE – STUNNING KEELBOAT CLASS WITH AMAZING, TACTICAL RACING

A modern classic style keelboat that is delightful to sail and produces truly tactical racing. Manageable loads and an efficient layout suits both women and men – so the RS Elite class is well known for outstanding events and a strong social scene. Minimal maintenance and only two or three crew means keelboat racing couldn’t be more convenient. Easily driven, with a high ballast ratio and carbon mast, the RS Elite is forgiving and fast – while shallow draft and a symmetrical spinnaker allow the boat to be raced almost anywhere. Sail one and you’ll easily understand why owners are passionate about their boats.

No. of Crew

Crew weight (kgs), displacement (kgs), no. of trapezes, sail area (m²), find out more, ready to buy, find similar models, what the sailors are saying….

Once virtually every club around our coasts had a local class, and the Solent based ones have endured longer than most. But keeping vintage wooden boats is labour of love, consuming time and money voraciously. Many glassfibre alternatives have been tried, but this new Phil Morrison design craft seems to have hit the spot.

Daily Telegraph

On any point of sailing the Elite is a nimble boat and a joy to sail.

Technical Editor Yachting World

The RS Elite exceeds expectations in performance, handling and appearance. She is just what I want and I believe the class will be a great success.

Twice IRC National Champion

I am high on winning probably the best regatta I have had the privilege of being a part of.

RS Elite National Champion 2010 & 2012

 Keelboat racing at its best

• Beautiful to look at and sail
• Simple to crew and maintain
• Fast, tactical racing within club fleets, championships and major regatta weeks

Beautiful handling

• Finger light steering and 60% ballast ratio make the RS Elite a joy to sail
• Fine bow, long narrow hull, balanced rudder and easily controllable rig ensure the boat is easily driven
• An easily driven, balanced boat achieves speed without drama

Performance

• High pointing and fast upwind – downwind pace that surprises many
• Excellent VMG around the track – rewarding when one-design racing – a weapon on handicap

Convenience

• The RS Elite maximises the pleasure of a racing keelboat by minimising the hassles:
• Low maintenance – means more time on the water. All GRP construction – encapsulated bulb keel – simple systems
• Small crew – typically sailed by three, so finding crew is easy
• Anyone can race – low loads and weight tolerant design allow mixed teams across the age range
• No hiking rule – finesse rather than strength is required
• One Design – RS Elite racing is close and tactical. Win on the water, not at the bank.
• Production controls and Class Rules ensure all boats perform the same – out of the box
• Self draining and unsinkable
• Easy to tow – behind a medium size car

Hull Design and Construction

• Long and narrow for maximum waterline length and minimum form resistance. The helm remains finger-light at all times, even when heeled
• The narrow hull and no hiking rule mean that crew weight is unimportant. As soon as the boat heels the crew are virtually above the centre of gravity, contributing little to righting moment.
• Solid GRP laminate for impact resistance and durability.
• Sub-floor moulding to distribute the rig and keel loads
• GRP moulded keel and rudder skins mean all foil shapes are identical
• Encapsulated lead keel bulb with stainless steel support structure – slots into a hull recess and through bolted from the cockpit – exceptional strength
• Single lift point for easy launching
• The easily driven hull does not require a big rig to attain great performance. This in turn helps to make the shallow draft possible and the rig manageable by both sexes
• The light, carbon fibre mast has a pivoting heel plug and can be raised by hand
• Rigging is fast – ready to sail around 30 minutes after arriving at a regatta
• Single swept back spreaders and no backstay give a simple, responsive rig that can be easily tuned.
• Rig tension is applied to the forestay via a cascade purchase concealed under the foredeck and adjusted in the cockpit
• Boom and spinnaker poles of aluminium alloy for durability.

Sail handling systems

• Jib hanks onto the forestay – tack downhaul lead to the cockpit – self-tacking for simple manoeuvres – 4:1 sheet purchase keeps loads in check.
• Mainsheet track across the aft deck – sheet leads forward along the boom to a jammer in the centre of the cockpit – helm or middle man can trim.
• Vang and cunningham lead to the middle of the cockpit on both sides.
• Spinnaker launching from a chute forward of the forestay – hoists and drops take seconds
• Pole system operated from the cockpit – stowed on the boom
• Spinnaker sheets lead to the middle of the cockpit within reach of all crew

RS Elite Options & Accessories

• Antifouling applied
• Raymarine Racemaster electronics – speed / depth / compass
• Racemaster mast mounting bracket
• Spinnaker chute cover
• Under side-deck stowage bags
• Full boat top cover – breathable polycotton
• Cockpit cover – PVC Nylon
• Tapered spinnaker sheets
• Hawk mast head wind indicator
• Anchor pack – inc chain, warp, bag
• Paddle and stowage clips
• Mooring warps
• Road trailer – galvanised steel with brakes
• Trailer stowage box – for sails & other equipment

SPECIFICATION

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RS200 Class

Adrenaline packed racing and a full-on social scene! The RS200 is one of the most popular two person sailboats of today. Perfect for moderate weight teams, it’s a winner with mixed crews, young sailors and family teams – at clubs, championships and on the RS Racing Circuit .

Strict one-design rules keep the competition tight and the budget in control. So it’s all about exciting sailing and a good time ashore in the RS community. This Class attracts rock stars and newbies like almost no other. It was one of RS’s first – and it’s still one of our favourites.

No. of Crew

Hull construction, no. of trapezes, sail area (m²).

RS Fest 2024 is Heading to Lough Derg Yacht Club

The RS Fest is back for 2024 after a hugely successful weekend in Blessington last year; this time, the fleets are heading to Lough Derg Yacht Club. The core ethos remains the same of all RS Sailing to have family-orientated sailing with plenty of fun on and off the...

Kennedy and Kane Look For Hat Trick at RS400 Winter Series at Cultra

The RS400 Winter Series returns to Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club for its 17th Year on Belfast Lough next weekend. Resuming this Sunday (5th November) and running until the 17th of December, the series concludes with the infamous Christmas Race. The racing consists...

RS Aero Dinghy Season Concludes at Howth with 16 Boat Turnout

The Irish RS Aero fleet completed their 2023 Summer Season at the KODC Advisory-sponsored Eastern Championship held at Howth Yacht Club over the weekend. The sixteen competitors enjoyed classic Howth conditions with an Easterly breeze and waves providing challenging...

CLASS CONTACTS

Robbie O’Sullivan

[email protected]

[email protected]

Race results.

Please press button below to view race results on Sailwave website: