RM 970 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The RM 970 began its production in 2016, joining a lineage of innovative yachts from the La Rochelle-based shipyard. RM Yachts, founded in 1989, has consistently championed marine plywood and epoxy construction for its hulls, combined with GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) decks. This method is lauded for providing excellent stiffness, insulation, and a significant weight advantage, which directly contributes to the yachts' renowned performance and eliminates risks like osmosis or delamination often associated with traditional fiberglass hulls.

The design of the RM 970 is attributed to the acclaimed naval architect Marc Lombard, a long-standing collaborator with RM Yachts. Lombard's philosophy centers on creating cruising yachts that are coherent and provide pleasure at sea, often characterized by modern lines, including distinctive hard-chined hulls and, in some cases, reverse sheerlines. These design elements contribute to directional stability and enhance interior volume. The RM 970 offers flexibility in its appendage configuration, available with either a deep fin keel (6.5 feet draft) or a twin keel arrangement, which reduces the draft to 5.54 feet and is paired with a spade rudder, catering to varying sailing grounds and preferences. notes]

Sailing Performance and Handling

The RM 970's design firmly positions it as a performance-oriented cruiser. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 19.16, the boat demonstrates good potential for light-air performance, suggesting it can move efficiently even in softer breezes. Its displacement to length ratio of around 159.48 indicates a light-to-moderate displacement vessel for its waterline length, further affirming its performance aspirations. The ballast to displacement ratio of approximately 30.1% for the fin keel version, combined with the inherent stiffness of its plywood-epoxy hull and broad stern, contributes to a stable platform that can stand up to a reasonable breeze, especially with the added stability from its hard-chined hull form.

Anecdotal evidence from sea trials and reviews consistently praises the RM 970's handling characteristics. It is described as "very fast, yet refined sailing" and "sporty," particularly when powered up. The twin rudders, often featured on RM models including the 970, provide direct and responsive steering, making the boat "ever so responsive and light on the wheels." This combination of a powerful hull, a well-balanced sail plan, and excellent helm feedback ensures an exhilarating and confidence-inspiring experience in various sea states, enabling sailors to "push on while sailing fast."

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its performance credentials, the RM 970 prioritizes comfortable and functional accommodations, reflecting its role as a capable cruising yacht. The interior is characterized by a "simple, bright and colourful modern" aesthetic, which is a hallmark of RM designs. The unique plywood-epoxy construction of the hull also offers inherent benefits below deck, including excellent insulation and a visually appealing interior that often showcases the warmth of the natural wood finish.

The typical layout of the RM 970 features a two-cabin arrangement, making it suitable for families or two couples. A standout feature is the generously sized head located aft. The design team, with input from Marc Lombard, focused on ergonomic considerations and comfort, aiming to provide "unequalled comfort" within its modern 32-foot length. The high hull volume, enhanced by the distinctive hard chines and raised sections, contributes to a surprisingly spacious interior for its size, offering ample living space and practical storage solutions for extended cruising.