RS Zest Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the RS Zest in 2017 marked a significant step forward in the small dinghy market, designed to be a drastic improvement over older designs and directly replacing the RS Quba in their lineup. The RS Zest was conceived with sail training at its core, leveraging insights from RS Sailing's existing range to create a boat that is both effective and enjoyable for learning. Designed by Jo Richards and RS Sailing's internal team, the Zest aims to deliver more crew space and practical features. RS Sailing, originating from a vision to "move the game forward" in dinghy design, employed its signature robust construction techniques, utilizing durable rotomoulded polyethylene for the hull and deck materials. This approach ensures resilience and a low-maintenance profile, consistent with the company's long-standing ethos of producing high-quality, high-performance boats accessible to a wider audience.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its modest length overall of just under 12 feet, the RS Zest offers a sprightly yet predictable performance that makes it an absolute blast to sail for individuals of various skill levels, including adults. Its design incorporates an ergonomic layout and an easily handled cat rig, which together contribute to a user-friendly, safe, and fun sailing experience. The Zest's chined hull is a notable design feature, enhancing both its stability and overall performance on the water. This combination of stability and responsive handling ensures that the boat provides rewarding performance, instilling confidence in newer sailors while still offering an engaging experience for those with more experience. The high boom design further contributes to safety and comfort in the cockpit.

Accommodations and Layout

As a small recreational and training dinghy, the RS Zest's "accommodations" primarily refer to its cockpit design and on-deck layout. The Zest features an industry-leading cockpit design that allows sailors the flexibility to sit either inside the boat for comfort or on the rail for more active sailing. The design emphasizes maximizing crew space, allowing for comfortable sailing with multiple occupants, such as three children or a family. It delivers more practical and enjoyable features than many older designs in its class. Constructed from durable rotomoulded polyethylene, the boat is built for resilience in a marine environment and is designed for easy maintenance, including simple fresh water washes both inside and out. The focus is on an open, uncluttered layout that facilitates learning and recreational use.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and enthusiasts widely recognize the RS Zest for its design improvements and suitability for its intended purpose. Its ability to be easily transported on a car roof or in tow, with quick setup times, is frequently highlighted as a significant advantage for families and training centers seeking spontaneous adventures. The Zest's predictable performance and confidence-building characteristics are consistently praised, particularly by those introducing new sailors to the sport. While specific "common problems" are not widely reported, the inherent durability of its rotomoulded construction and design for easy cleaning contribute to a generally positive ownership experience, focused on minimal maintenance and maximum time on the water.