RS800 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the RS800 can be traced back to 1999, a pivotal year that saw its introduction into the dinghy racing scene. RS Sailing, emerging from a desire to leverage cutting-edge design and technology, aimed to create boats that would "move the game forward" and ignite passion in sailors. The RS800 was a direct manifestation of this ethos, designed to offer performance levels often dreamed of by racers but in a more manageable package. Its design features a long and narrow hull on the waterline to minimize drag, coupled with a flared hull for enhanced performance. While RS Sailing maintains an internal capability for boat design and manufacturing, the specific model was penned by Phil Morrison. Over its production run, which has seen continuous manufacturing with a change in build location in 2011, the RS800 has undergone subtle refinements, including a notable cockpit makeover in 2007 to further optimize its skiff-like handling and ergonomics.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Weighing in at a mere 243 pounds with a length overall of 15.75 feet, the RS800 is engineered for raw speed and responsiveness. With a reported sail area of 177 square feet, complemented by a substantial 225 square-foot asymmetric spinnaker, the boat boasts a high power-to-weight ratio. Both the helm and crew sail on trapeze, allowing the boat to generate significant righting moment and translate apparent wind into thrilling acceleration. Descriptions of its performance consistently use terms like "exhilarating," "exceptional speeds," and "thrilling." The design incorporates a manageable rig size, enabling high performance without becoming overwhelmingly difficult to control. The cockpit layout is specifically designed to provide the helmsman with a secure steering position while facilitating seamless run-through maneuvers for experienced teams. Furthermore, its even rocker shape ensures the bow stays up when sailing downwind, allowing the RS800 to be driven hard even in challenging wind and wave conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

As a high-performance racing dinghy, the RS800 prioritizes on-water ergonomics and functionality over traditional interior accommodations. There is no enclosed cabin or significant headroom. Instead, the focus is entirely on the open cockpit and deck layout, which are meticulously designed to support two crew members engaged in demanding, athletic sailing. The spacious cockpit facilitates the rapid movement and maneuvers essential in competitive skiff racing. It features racks, which extend the boat's beam to 9.5 feet, providing a stable platform for the twin trapeze system. A large gennaker chute is strategically positioned forward, enabling quick and efficient deployment and retrieval of the asymmetric spinnaker. The layout is optimized for high-speed sailing, with all control lines thoughtfully placed for easy access, ensuring seamless transitions during tacks, gybes, and trapeze work.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and enthusiasts of the RS800 consistently praise its dynamic performance and the vibrant community it fosters. The boat is celebrated for attracting sailors from diverse backgrounds, including those transitioning from slower boats or looking for a more intense racing experience. The RS800 has a strong international class association that actively organizes regattas and championships globally, reinforcing a sense of camaraderie and shared passion among its owners. Owners frequently highlight the boat's "championship ready" nature and its ability to provide exciting, competitive sailing experiences. The class is known not just for intense racing but also for a strong social scene, with events often described as a balance of "sailing and partying," embodying the RS Sailing ethos of "Sail IT, Live IT, Love IT." The overall sentiment is that the RS800 delivers on its promise of accessible, thrilling skiff sailing.