RS Cat 14 Information, Review, Specs

The RS Cat 14 emerged from RS Sailing's established trajectory of innovation, drawing characteristics from its larger predecessor, the RS Cat 16, which debuted in 2014. RS Sailing, a company founded on the desire to "move the game forward" in dinghy design, has consistently leveraged modern technology and durable materials, particularly rotomoulded polyethylene, to produce resilient and high-performing boats. For the Cat 14, the design goals focused on creating a boat that is robust, ergonomic, and easy to handle, minimizing constraints related to setup and care. A significant design innovation is the patented system for joining the beams to the hulls, which dramatically increases stiffness compared to other rotomoulded catamarans, thus enhancing performance without compromising the inherent durability of the material. The boat is constructed from this hard-wearing polyethylene for both its hull and deck, ensuring longevity and low maintenance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The RS Cat 14 delivers an exciting yet forgiving sailing experience, marked by crisp and easy handling from its stiff platform. Despite its compact length overall of nearly 14 feet, its catamaran hull type provides exceptional stability and comfort. The design incorporates high buoyancy hulls, contributing to reserve stability and more forgiving handling characteristics, making it well-suited for a broad spectrum of sailors, from youth to adults. The boat can comfortably accommodate two crew members, with a maximum capacity for up to 750 pounds (340 kg), and is also designed for easy single-handed sailing. It features a fractional sloop rig, with a reported total sail area of approximately 109.79 square feet, comprising an 87.2 sq ft mainsail and a 22.6 sq ft jib. An "XL" version is also available, which reportedly includes an asymmetrical gennaker of 97 square feet for enhanced performance. These features combine to offer an engaging performance that is both responsive and confidence-inspiring in various conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

As a compact, open-deck catamaran designed primarily for day sailing and training, the RS Cat 14 does not feature traditional interior accommodations. Instead, its layout is focused on maximizing space and functionality on deck. The design incorporates practical features aimed at convenience and fun. Notably, the concave decks provide secure sitting areas, enhancing comfort and safety for the crew during sailing. The open layout ensures ample space, allowing for easy movement and providing room for multiple occupants. Given its rotomoulded polyethylene construction, the finish is inherently durable and low-maintenance, perfectly aligning with its purpose as a versatile and hard-wearing recreational and training sailboat.