RS600 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The RS600 entered production in 2001, emerging from a period where RS Sailing was actively "moving the game forward" by leveraging the latest design and technology. The boat was designed by the collaborative efforts of Clive Everest and Nick Peters, with Everest, described as a "high-performance boffin," credited with shaping the innovative hull. This design philosophy aimed to create a vessel that offered stunning performance while remaining attainable for a broad audience of sailors. While RS Sailing no longer produces new RS600s directly, the class maintains a vibrant and active racing community.

Over its production, the RS600 saw some evolution. Early models included an "Angel wing shaped mast" and a round boom. Later iterations introduced a "new hull" design, which featured a taller rudder tower, eliminated the rear bar, and incorporated recessed pro grip areas, alongside updates to internal structures and materials. Sail design has also progressed, with newer sails showcasing a straighter leech and a tri-radial panel layout, contributing to a more modern and powerful profile.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The RS600 delivers an unadulterated sailing experience, characterized by its remarkable speed both upwind and downwind, even in relatively light air. Despite its immense speed potential, the boat is generally considered to have "excellent handling" and "relatively easy handling". Many owners praise its responsiveness, often describing it as the "purest form of sailing available in a dinghy". It is particularly noted for its ability to point exceptionally well.

A significant design feature that contributes to its versatile performance is a highly effective reefing system, which can reduce the sail area by almost 20%. This capability ensures that the boat remains well-canvassed and manageable across a broader range of wind conditions. While the RS600 is designed for high performance and can be demanding, especially in strong winds where some sailors have reported "more swimming than sailing," its balanced characteristics and the ability to de-power make it a rewarding boat for skilled single-handers.

Accommodations and Layout

As a high-performance racing dinghy, the RS600 prioritizes on-water functionality over interior comfort. Its layout is inherently simple, with essential controls strategically placed for immediate access and efficient operation. The boat features an open cockpit design, typical of a dinghy, and is equipped with racks and a trapeze, which are central to its high-performance nature and crew ergonomics while sailing. Control systems are designed for optimization, including continuous vang and cunningham systems, often featuring high-purchase arrangements to facilitate precise adjustments during racing. Owners often focus on refining the setup of these controls and tidying the cockpit area to maximize efficiency and ease of handling.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the RS600 consistently laud its exhilarating performance and the sheer joy it brings on the water, often referring to it as the "purest form of sailing". The boat's speed and responsiveness are frequently highlighted as major strengths, providing a thrilling ride for experienced dinghy sailors. The effective reefing system is also a highly valued feature, allowing sailors to manage the boat's powerful sail plan across varied wind strengths. While the RS600 demands skill and active sailing, particularly in challenging conditions, the strong class association and active racing scene foster a supportive community where knowledge and experience are readily shared among enthusiasts. Owners typically embrace the challenges as part of the rewarding high-performance sailing experience.