RS RS800 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The RS800 is defined by its power-to-weight ratio and a sophisticated, yet simplified, control system. As a twin-trapeze skiff, both the helm and crew are out on the wires, providing the righting moment needed to balance the massive sail area. According to RS Sailing, the boat was specifically designed to be light enough to plane in marginal conditions while remaining controllable in a blow. The use of a self-tacking jib and a large asymmetric spinnaker launched from a bow chute allows the crew to focus on balance and gust response rather than complex rope work.

In terms of sea-kindliness, the RS800's hull shape is remarkably forgiving for a skiff. The flared wings act as built-in buoyancy, preventing the "nose-diving" common in narrower skiff designs when transitions from displacement to planing speeds occur. Handling is described by many as "flighty" but rewarding; the boat tracks exceptionally well due to its deep daggerboard and high-aspect rudder. A unique feature of the RS800 is its weight equalization system, which uses a combination of corrector weights and wing-width adjustments to ensure that teams of varying weights can compete on an even footing—a rarity in high-performance dinghy racing.

The rig evolution is a critical aspect of its performance history. In 2013, the class introduced the "Mk2" update, which featured a new deck mold and a revised sail plan. The transition to the square-top mainsail and a more modern rig improved the boat's "gust-response," allowing the top of the sail to twist off automatically in high winds, thereby increasing the wind range in which the boat remains manageable.

Popular Mentions & Media

The RS800 has maintained a prominent position in the European racing circuit for over two decades. It is a staple class at the RS Games, one of the largest one-design sailing events in the world, often drawing fleets of over 50 boats. The class is also a frequent participant in the prestigious Endeavour Trophy, the UK's "Champion of Champions" event, where it has been used to test the skills of the nation's top sailors across all disciplines. While not a "famous" boat in Hollywood terms, it is a celebrity in the dinghy park, often cited in technical reviews by Yachts & Yachting as the benchmark for twin-trapeze one-design racing.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a used RS800, buyers should prioritize the structural integrity of the high-load areas. Because the boat generates significant rig tension, the mast step and the area surrounding the daggerboard case should be checked for stress crazing or soft spots.

1. Rig Generation: Determine if the boat is a Mk1 or Mk2. While the hulls are largely the same, the Mk2 features a different cockpit layout and more modern sails. Many older boats have been "upgraded" with Mk2 rigs, but original Mk2 hulls are generally preferred for competitive racing.
2. Wing Tubes and Spinnaker Chute: Inspect the points where the hiking wings attach to the hull. These are high-stress areas that can develop cracks over time. Similarly, check the spinnaker chute entrance for excessive wear or glass-fiber fraying, which can tear expensive kites.
3. Mast Integrity: The RS800 uses a carbon composite mast. Inspect the track and the spreader brackets for any signs of delamination or rivet "smoking" (dark residue), which indicates movement.
4. Foil Condition: The high-aspect daggerboard and rudder are central to the boat’s performance. Check for "trailing edge" damage or signs of the core absorbing water, which can significantly increase the boat's minimum weight.

Community & Resources

The RS800 Class Association is the primary hub for the global community. It provides exhaustive technical resources, including the official "RS800 Tuning Guide," which offers precise settings for rig tension and spreader sweep based on crew weight. The association is also responsible for maintaining the strict one-design rules that have kept the boat relevant and prevented an "arms race" of expensive modifications. For technical support and genuine parts, RS Sailing’s dedicated store remains the authoritative source for everything from replacement foils to the latest sail designs.

The Verdict

The RS800 is a masterclass in skiff design, offering a bridge between traditional racing and the extreme world of Olympic high-performance sailing.

Pros:

• High Performance: Provides 20-knot speed potential in a one-design format.
• Weight Equalization: Allows mixed and lighter crews to remain competitive against heavier teams.
• Strong Resale: An active class association and enduring popularity ensure a steady market for used boats.
• Build Quality: More robust than many custom carbon skiffs.

Cons:

• Learning Curve: The twin-trapeze setup is physically demanding and requires significant "time on water" to master.
• Crew Dependent: Requires a dedicated partner; it is not a boat that can be easily sailed single-handed or with a novice.
• Complex Rigging: While simplified for a skiff, it still requires more setup time than a standard hiking dinghy.