Solaris 64 RS Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing philosophy behind the Solaris 64 RS is rooted in the "easy sailing" concept, where all control lines—including mainsheet, jib sheets, and halyards—are led aft to two winches positioned immediately forward of the twin helm stations. This layout allows for shorthanded operation of a vessel that possesses a powerful sail plan and a high righting moment. According to technical insights from Soto Acebal Naval Architects, the hull features a modern, wide-transom geometry with a subtle chine that assists in tracking and stability when the boat is pressed under canvas.

In independent sea trials, such as those conducted by Yachting World, the 64 RS has been praised for its balance and tactile feedback at the wheel. The use of twin rudders ensures that the yacht maintains exceptional grip even at high heel angles, a common challenge for wide-beam hulls. The ballast-to-displacement ratio is tuned for stiffness, allowing the boat to carry its full main and a self-tacking jib well into the upper teens of true wind speed. For those seeking maximum performance, the model is often equipped with a Hall Spars carbon rig and high-modulus sails, which significantly reduce pitching moment in choppy seas.

The Solaris 64 RS shares its structural DNA with several siblings, most notably the Solaris 60 and the larger Solaris 68 RS. While the 60 focuses on a more aggressive, low-profile "flush deck" look, the 64 RS introduces the raised saloon configuration, which necessitates a slightly higher coachroof profile that Acebal has managed to mask through clever window line geometry and recessed deck features.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The "RS" designation is the centerpiece of the 64’s interior logic. By raising the saloon floor, Solaris has created an engine room directly beneath the living space, centralizing weight and freeing up significant volume in the aft sections for guest accommodations or storage. This configuration also allows for a 360-degree panoramic view through the wraparound coachroof windows, a feature detailed in the official Solaris Yachts literature as a primary differentiator from the standard Solaris 60.

Interior layouts are semi-custom, typically featuring a three-cabin, three-head arrangement. The most common configuration places the master suite forward, taking advantage of the quietest part of the boat away from the machinery. Variations include an "offset" galley or a more traditional linear arrangement, depending on whether the owner prioritizes a large social area or a dedicated workspace for a professional chef. The craftsmanship is quintessential Italian modernism, utilizing light oaks or walnuts with recessed LED lighting and high-quality leather upholstery. A dedicated crew cabin with independent access is often located in the forepeak, ensuring privacy for the owner and guests during extended passages.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Solaris 64 RS is built to a high standard, its complexity as a modern performance yacht requires specific attention during surveys:

• Hydraulic System Integrity: The 64 RS relies heavily on hydraulics for the transom door, backstay, and often the vang or furling systems. Buyers should inspect the manifold for leaks and verify the service history of the Reckmann or Bamar units.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: Solaris utilizes a robust T-keel with a lead bulb. Because these yachts are often sailed hard, a high-signal inspection of the internal grid and the stainless steel keel bolts is mandatory to ensure no stress crazing exists around the floor timbers.
• Teak Deck Bonding: The expansive teak decks are vacuum-bonded without screws. While this eliminates leak paths, buyers should check for any "drummy" spots where the vacuum seal may have failed, particularly around the complex curves of the raised saloon windows.
• Electronics Integration: Many 64 RS units use sophisticated PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) systems for lighting and tank monitoring. Ensure all software updates are current and that the manual override systems are fully functional.

Community & Resources

Owners of the 64 RS benefit from the Solaris Yachts shipyard’s direct support and a dedicated community of Mediterranean cruisers. The most prominent gathering is the annual Solaris Cup held in Porto Rotondo, Sardinia, where owners and designers meet for both racing and technical exchange. While there is no standalone public forum for the 64 RS, technical documentation is often managed through the shipyard’s owner portal.

The Verdict

The Solaris 64 RS is a sophisticated marriage of Italian style and Argentine naval architecture, designed for the sailor who refuses to choose between aesthetic beauty and bluewater capability.

Pros:

• Exceptional aesthetic with a nearly flush deck despite the "RS" interior.
• Category-leading visibility from the saloon, rare in performance-oriented hulls.
• Ergonomic cockpit layout optimized for genuine shorthanded sailing.
• High-quality semi-custom finishes that rival Northern European yards.

Cons:

• Complex onboard systems require professional maintenance and technical literacy.
• The wide transom and twin rudders can make tight-quarter Mediterranean berthing challenging without the bow and stern thrusters.
• Premium pricing puts it in direct competition with fully custom carbon builds.