RM 1370 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The RM 1370 is engineered for high-average speeds on long passages, a trait confirmed in sea trials where the boat easily reaches 8 to 10 knots in moderate breezes. According to an editorial review in Yachting World, the hull's broad stern and hard chines provide exceptional form stability, allowing the yacht to carry a powerful sail plan even as the wind freshens.

The boat is typically offered in three keel configurations: a deep single keel (2.45m), a lifting keel for shallow-water access, or the brand’s signature twin-keel arrangement. While the twin-keel version allows the boat to dry out on tidal flats—a major advantage for Atlantic coast cruising—it also maintains surprising windward efficiency. The cutter rig is a standard feature, providing a staysail on a furler that balances the boat beautifully when the wind exceeds 20 knots, making it a favorite for short-handed offshore sailing. The twin-rudder setup ensures the boat remains "on rails" even when pressed hard on a reach, though it can feel slightly less communicative in very light air compared to a single-rudder configuration.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Unlike many modern yachts that bury the saloon deep in the hull, the RM 1370 utilizes a "deck saloon" philosophy that maximizes natural light. Large wraparound windows provide nearly 180-degree views from the seating area, a feature the manufacturer highlights as a major contributor to the sense of interior volume.

The layout typically features a three-cabin configuration, with a spacious owner’s suite forward and two aft cabins. A notable sibling, the RM 1360, preceded this model with a similar hull shape, but the 1370 introduced a more refined interior finish, an updated bow profile, and more ergonomic galley arrangements. The use of light-colored woods and white panels emphasizes a "loft-style" aesthetic. For those requiring more utility for blue-water voyaging, a "technical room" variant often replaces one of the aft cabins to provide dedicated space for a generator, watermaker, and a sea-going workshop. Because the hull is built from plywood, it offers superior thermal and acoustic insulation compared to fiberglass, resulting in a drier and quieter cabin environment.

Popular Mentions & Media

The RM 1370 has gained significant visibility through its consistent presence at the Grand Pavois La Rochelle and high-profile European boat shows. It was notably nominated for the European Yacht of the Year award, reflecting its status as a benchmark in the performance-cruising category. The model is frequently featured in French sailing media, such as Voiles et Voiliers, which has tracked the evolution from the RM 1360 to the 1370 and eventually the newer RM 1380.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Synthesizing data from owner experiences and technical surveys, potential buyers should focus on the following areas:

• Deck Hardware Seals: Given the plywood-epoxy construction, any water ingress at deck hardware must be addressed immediately. Inspect the areas around the chainplates and stanchions for signs of moisture or discoloration in the plywood core.
• Keel Attachment: On twin-keel models, the loads are distributed differently than a single-keel boat. A thorough inspection of the internal structural grid for any signs of movement or stress cracking in the epoxy fillets is essential.
• Paint Maintenance: Unlike gelcoat, RM hulls are finished with polyurethane paint. While this allows for striking custom colors, it requires specialized care and eventually professional repainting to maintain the UV protection of the epoxy-sealed hull.
• Rudder Bearings: The twin-rudder setup provides excellent control when heeled but can develop play in the bearings over time; a haul-out inspection is recommended to check for lateral movement in the shafts.

Community & Resources

Owners of these vessels are often found within the RM Forane, the RM Owners Association. This group provides a technical exchange for maintenance and detailed cruising logs from around the world. The association is particularly active in France and the UK, providing a wealth of information on optimizing the Lombard-designed hull for various sea states.

The Verdict

The RM 1370 is a specialist’s yacht—a fast, modern, and light-filled cruiser that eschews the weight of traditional boat building in favor of structural efficiency and speed.

Pros:

• Exceptional Speed: Capable of double-digit speeds and consistent high-average daily runs.
• Visibility: The deck saloon windows offer unparalleled light and a 180-degree view while seated.
• Versatility: The twin-keel option allows for drying out and exploring shallow anchorages.
• Insulation: Plywood-epoxy construction provides superior warmth and reduces condensation.

Cons:

• Maintenance: The painted hull requires more long-term care and cost than traditional gelcoat.
• Aesthetics: The hard-chined, modern look is functional but may be polarizing for traditionalists.
• Rarity: Lower production numbers mean they can be difficult to find on the second-hand market outside of Europe.