RM 1060 Information, Review, Specs

From its inception, the RM 1060 has been recognized for its audacious design and sporty aesthetics, appealing to enthusiasts who prioritize both a thrilling sailing experience and practical, bright interiors. It embodies the core philosophy of RM Yachts: delivering light-displacement, fast cruising yachts suitable for diverse sailing ambitions.

History and Design

The RM 1060 entered production in 2008, a period when RM Yachts, under the guidance of naval architect Marc Lombard, was solidifying its reputation for innovative and robust cruising yachts. The shipyard's enduring ethos, established since its founding in 1989, centered on the use of marine plywood and epoxy for hull construction, combined with GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) decks. This unconventional material choice aimed to create vessels with excellent stiffness, insulation, and a significant weight advantage over traditional fiberglass, contributing to their renowned performance and practical benefits like eliminating the risk of osmosis or delamination.

Marc Lombard's design philosophy, deeply integrated with RM Yachts for over 30 years, emphasizes performance-oriented hulls inspired by offshore racing yachts, coupled with clever ergonomics for comfortable cruising 10, 15, Builder Article. For the RM 1060, Lombard incorporated the brand's signature hard-chined hull, which not only contributes to directional stability but also maximizes interior volume. A notable design variation for the RM 1060 was its availability with either a twin keel or a fin keel configuration, with the twin keel option being a hallmark of RM designs, allowing the boat to dry out without the need for legs. The boat was also noted for potentially offering a double wheel steering option.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The RM 1060 is engineered for an exceptional sailing experience, characterized by a compelling combination of speed and comfort. Its design ratios underscore its performance-oriented nature. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 19.61, the RM 1060 is well-equipped for spirited performance, particularly excelling in lighter air conditions where its ample sail plan can harness even gentle breezes.

The boat's Ballast to Displacement (Bal/Disp) ratio, around 0.46 (for the twin keel version at 4453 lbs of ballast against a 9700 lbs displacement), indicates a stiff and stable platform. This high ratio suggests the RM 1060 can stand up to more wind, providing a secure and comfortable motion even in a seaway. Furthermore, its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 112.47 categorizes it as a relatively light, performance-oriented cruiser. This translates to an agile and responsive yacht that maintains good speeds across various points of sail.

Anecdotal reports and press reviews often praise the RM 1060 for its balanced helm and predictable handling. Owners frequently commend its ease of management, even when shorthanded, and its ability to cover significant distances efficiently. The twin keels, a signature feature, are specifically designed to optimize performance while offering the practical advantage of allowing the boat to dry out upright, a boon for accessing shallow anchorages or performing maintenance 2, 15, Builder Article.

Accommodations and Layout

Below deck, the RM 1060 is celebrated for its remarkably bright and open-plan layout, a direct result of RM Yachts' design philosophy which prioritizes maximizing space and volume. The interior is flooded with natural light, largely due to a distinctive large windscreen that also offers excellent forward visibility from within the salon, enhancing safety and the sense of connection with the outside.

The typical interior arrangement includes two cabins, providing four berths, making it suitable for families or two couples. While specific headroom figures are not universally detailed, the design aims for a spacious feel. The attractive interior design often showcases the warmth of the plywood-epoxy construction, creating a welcoming and visually appealing environment. The general finish quality is consistent with RM Yachts' reputation for robust construction, with an emphasis on functional and ergonomic solutions for comfortable cruising. Storage solutions are thoughtfully integrated, catering to the needs of passage-making sailors.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and the European press have widely praised the RM 1060, recognizing it as an exceptional sailing boat that successfully combines speed and comfort. Its distinct plywood-epoxy hull construction is often highlighted as a strength, contributing to its performance, insulation, and robust nature 2, 3, Builder Article. Sailors appreciate its ability to perform well across all points of sail and its easily maintained, sporty character. The twin keel option is frequently lauded for its practical advantages, particularly the ability to access shallow waters and dry out. The bright, open-plan interior and the clear forward view from the salon are also consistent points of positive feedback. While specific recurring weaknesses are not widely reported, some liveaboard owners, for instance, have noted that they "are missing most on the RM 1060 as live aboards", suggesting potential limitations for long-term, full-time residency compared to larger dedicated liveaboard vessels, though this sentiment is not broadly elaborated upon. The RM 1060 generally fosters a strong sense of community among its owners, who frequently share their cruising experiences worldwide.