RM 800 Information, Review, Specs

Synthesizing the builder's ethos with Lombard's design expertise, the RM 800 caters to enthusiasts who appreciate a sailing vessel that stands apart from conventional fiberglass production boats. It quickly followed the RM900 as one of the shipyard's early models, cementing RM's identity in the sailing community for its unique construction and performance-oriented cruising capabilities.

History and Design

The RM 800 entered production in 1993, with 24 hulls built before its run concluded in 2003. This period saw RM Yachts, under the guidance of founder Jean-Claude Audrey, championing their pioneering construction method of marine plywood and epoxy hulls combined with GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) decks. This choice of materials aimed to produce light-displacement vessels optimized for performance and comfortable passage-making, setting RM apart from other builders.

Marc Lombard, the naval architect behind every RM yacht, has maintained a deep and collaborative partnership with the shipyard for over 30 years. His design philosophy for RM Yachts emphasizes audacious design, performance, and comfort, resulting in yachts that are "fast, light displacement, passage-making cruising yachts". Lombard's designs for RM are distinct, often featuring hard-chined hulls that contribute to directional stability and increased interior volume, as well as large aft cockpits and wide side decks. While specific variations like MkI or MkII for the RM 800 are not widely documented, the consistent design ethos ensured a cohesive offering throughout its production. The plywood-epoxy construction method provides excellent stiffness, insulation, and a significant weight advantage, which contributes to the yachts' renowned performance and practical benefits such as eliminating the risk of osmosis or delamination.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 26.21 feet and a waterline length of 25.59 feet, the RM 800 is designed for agile performance. Its multi-chine hull, a hallmark of Marc Lombard's designs for RM, contributes to good directional stability and allows the boat to stand up well to its canvas. The RM 800 typically features a fractional sloop rig, offering a versatile sail plan for varying conditions. Its twin keel configuration, with a maximum draft of 3.9 feet, is a key design element that optimizes performance while also allowing for access to shallow anchorages, a common feature in RM designs.

Anecdotal evidence from sailing reviews and owner forums suggests that RM yachts, in general, are known for being fast, stiff, and easy to single or short-hand sail. While specific performance reviews for the RM 800 are limited due to its age and smaller production run, the core design principles applied across the RM range indicate a lively and responsive sailing experience. The emphasis on light displacement combined with a robust construction allows for efficient progress, making it a capable vessel for coastal cruising and spirited day sails.

Accommodations and Layout

Information regarding the specific interior layout and accommodations of the RM 800 is not extensively detailed in readily available specifications. However, RM Yachts' general design philosophy emphasizes clever ergonomics, creating comfortable family cruisers. The unique plywood-epoxy construction method not only offers structural benefits but also provides excellent insulation and a visually appealing interior often showcasing the warmth of the wood.

Given its length, the RM 800 would typically feature a functional layout designed to maximize space within its 26-foot hull. This would likely include a forward V-berth, a compact salon with settees that may convert into berths, a galley area with basic cooking facilities, and a dedicated head compartment. Storage solutions would be integrated throughout the interior, making efficient use of the available volume. The finish quality, consistent with RM's reputation, would likely involve a combination of exposed wood and fiberglass, providing a robust yet inviting atmosphere suitable for coastal cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

While extensive owner reviews specifically for the RM 800 are not widely available in public forums, the broader RM Yachts owner community is known for its strong sense of camaraderie and active sharing of sailing adventures. Owners of RM yachts generally praise their solid construction, comfortable motion in a seaway, and distinctive aesthetic. The plywood-epoxy hull is frequently cited as a significant advantage, offering durability and good insulation.

Common strengths often highlighted by RM owners include the boats' ability to perform well in various conditions, their robust build quality, and their suitability for both performance sailing and comfortable cruising. While specific weaknesses for the RM 800 are not extensively documented, general points sometimes raised about older production boats can include the need for periodic maintenance of original fittings and systems. The unique construction method, while offering many advantages, might also imply a different approach to certain repair or modification tasks compared to conventional fiberglass boats.