RS Tera Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The RS Tera began production in 2010, emerging from RS Sailing's long-standing philosophy of advancing dinghy design to "move the game forward" for sailors. The company, known for its innovative approach and robust construction techniques, particularly through the use of durable rotomoulded polyethylene, aimed to create a boat that would speak for itself through its inherent quality and performance. The core goal behind the Tera's design was to get young sailors hooked on the sport by making sailing addictive. This involved crafting a vessel that was not only safe and durable but also simple to handle and immensely fun to sail. Throughout its production, RS Sailing has continually monitored and developed the RS Tera, ensuring it remains at the forefront of junior sailing. Notably, the RS Tera is offered with two primary rig variations: a "Sport" rig and a "Pro" rig, allowing for adaptability based on sailor skill and wind conditions. An "Mk2" version has also been introduced, featuring further improvements to this popular dinghy.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size with a length overall of just over 9 feet, the RS Tera delivers a sparkling and engaging sailing experience, perfectly suited for its target audience. It is celebrated for its simple handling, making it highly approachable for beginners, while still offering a level of performance that can challenge and develop more experienced junior racers. The boat is designed to be incredibly safe and user-friendly, featuring an unsinkable, strong, and clean layout. Its self-draining cockpit enhances convenience and usability, particularly after a capsize. The RS Tera is remarkably capsize-friendly, capable of being righted by even the smallest sailors, a significant advantage over many older dinghy designs. Its integral buoyancy and chined hull design contribute to its overall stability and confidence-inspiring behavior on the water. The design encourages a correct sailor position, promoting good technique from an early age.

Accommodations and Layout

As a compact, single-handed dinghy, the RS Tera's "accommodations" primarily refer to its cockpit design, which is engineered for functionality and ease of use for young sailors. The open and self-draining cockpit provides a clean and uncluttered space, allowing for quick recovery and comfortable sailing. The hull is constructed from rotomoulded polyethylene, a hallmark of many RS Sailing models, known for its exceptional durability and resilience, making the Tera capable of withstanding the rigors of training and regular use. The layout is optimized to facilitate intuitive handling and maintain a secure and safe environment for its young operators. While lacking interior cabins typical of larger cruisers, the Tera's design excels in its purpose, providing a robust and accessible platform that gets children actively engaged in sailing.