Red Fox 200 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Red Fox 200 entered production in 1990, with the first GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) version launching in 1992. The design originated from Red Fox Yachts, but its successful lineage continued under Hunter Boats Ltd., a builder known for its pragmatic and well-engineered vessels that catered to a wide range of sailing preferences, from racers to cruisers. Hunter Boats, under the influence of designers like David Thomas, increasingly focused on "solid and quick cruisers" by the 1980s and 90s, a philosophy that seemingly translated even to their smaller models like the Red Fox 200.

A distinguishing feature of the Red Fox 200 is its innovative keel configuration: twin asymmetric daggerboards. This design allows for a remarkably shallow minimum draft of just 0.67 feet, facilitating easy launching and retrieval from a trailer, and enabling access to shallower waters. When fully deployed, the daggerboards provide a maximum draft of 2.92 feet, enhancing upwind performance. Over its production run, the Red Fox 200 saw several variations, including the initial composite version which featured a GRP hull combined with marine plywood for the decks, cockpit, and interior. Later iterations included the more common GRP-built Red Fox 200E, a sportier 200S day sailer, a 200 Cruiser with increased interior volume, and the bilge keel version known as the Red Fox 200T.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Red Fox 200 is regarded as a reasonably good performer, particularly noted for its stability and stiffness. Its design, featuring twin asymmetric daggerboards, contributes to its efficient handling and shallow-water capabilities. The boat is described as performing very well in smooth water. With a hull speed of nearly 6 knots, it offers a lively sailing experience for its length. While praised for its initial stability, it's important to note that, like many lightweight boats of its class, it has a low righting capability if capsized. This characteristic reinforces its suitability as a coastal or day cruiser where self-righting after a full inversion is less critical than initial stability and ease of handling.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Red Fox 200 is designed to maximize the available space within its 20-foot length, catering to its role as a mini-cruiser. Typically, the layout is open-plan, providing four berths. This arrangement usually includes a double berth in the forepeak and two single quarter berths. While headroom details are not widely specified, the design aims to offer practical, if compact, living space for weekend cruising. The original Red Fox 200 models notably incorporated marine plywood for interior construction, contributing to a traditional feel, alongside the GRP hull. This combination of materials and an open layout provides basic but functional accommodations for short excursions, making it suitable for two adults and potentially two small children.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners generally praise the Red Fox 200 for its excellent sailing characteristics and ease of handling. Its ability to be easily trailed and launched is a significant advantage, frequently highlighted by those who appreciate the flexibility of exploring different cruising grounds without the need for permanent moorings. The boat is often considered one of the best-designed trailer sailers available, particularly for those seeking a compact yet capable vessel for weekend cruising or day trips. While specific anecdotal common problems are not widely documented in public forums, the recurring positive sentiment revolves around its solid performance and practical design.