Solaris 68 RS Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Solaris 68 RS is engineered for "easy sailing," a philosophy that centralizes all sail controls to the helmsman’s position, allowing a vessel of nearly 70 feet to be managed by a minimal crew. The hull form features a modern wide-stern design and twin rudders, which provide exceptional grip and control when the boat is powered up and heeled. With a high ballast ratio and a deep T-keel, the 68 RS exhibits a high righting moment, translating into a powerful feel upwind.

Technical evaluations, such as those featured in editorial reviews from Yachting World, highlight the boat's ability to maintain pace in light airs due to its generous sail area-to-displacement ratio, while its balanced hull ensures it remains predictable in heavy weather. The use of a self-tacking jib simplifies tacking maneuvers, though the boat is often equipped with a large code zero or gennaker on a fixed bowsprit for downwind performance. The steering is typically noted for being highly communicative, a trait Solaris achieves by using high-quality steering linkages that avoid the "numb" feeling often found in larger cruising yachts.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The "RS" designation is most evident in the interior architecture, where the raised saloon floor allows the engine room to be positioned centrally under the living space. This layout maximizes the width of the saloon and creates an airy, light-filled environment through the large deckhouse windows. The 68 RS is typically offered in multiple configurations, most commonly a three or four-cabin layout. The master suite is located forward, isolated from the noise of the cockpit and engine room, and often features a center-line island berth and a dedicated workspace.

The craftsmanship is a point of pride for the shipyard, utilizing high-grade woods such as oak or teak finished to a contemporary Italian standard. Sibling variants built on similar hull concepts include the Solaris 64, which offers a more traditional flush-deck profile, and the larger Solaris 72. While the hull of the 68 RS is distinct, it shares the modular construction logic of its siblings, allowing owners to customize the galley location (aft vs. forward) and the number of guest cabins. The raised saloon configuration provides significantly more stowage space under the sole compared to the flush-deck models, a critical factor for owners planning extended periods aboard.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Solaris 68 RS is a fixture at the annual Solaris Cup in Porto Rotondo, Sardinia, where it is frequently showcased as a flagship of the "performance cruiser" category. The model has gained international attention through major nautical showcases, including the Cannes Yachting Festival and the Düsseldorf Boat Show, where it is often cited by the yachting press as a benchmark for European luxury performance design.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a pre-owned Solaris 68 RS should focus on the technical complexity inherent in a yacht of this caliber. While the structural integrity of the vacuum-infused hull is generally excellent, the following areas require scrutiny:

• Hydraulic Systems: The 68 RS relies heavily on hydraulics for the backstay, vang, and often the transom door and winches. A thorough inspection for leaks or pressure drops in the central power pack is essential.
• Keel and Rudder Bearings: Due to the high loads generated by the twin-rudder configuration and the deep keel, bearings should be checked for play, especially if the vessel has been campaigned in regattas like the Solaris Cup.
• Teak Deck Maintenance: Solaris utilizes thick teak planking, but on a vessel of this size, the sheer surface area means re-caulking or sanding is a significant future expense. Check for any signs of "proud" caulking or thinning.
• Electronics Integration: The sophisticated BUS systems used for lighting and tank monitoring can be difficult to troubleshoot if modifications have been made by previous owners. Ensure all software and firmware for the yacht's management systems are current.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for owners is the Solaris Yachts official network and the Solaris Cup community, which provides a platform for technical exchange and social racing. While there is no dedicated independent "68 RS Association," the shipyard maintains a strong relationship with its owners through its service points in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, offering refit and technical support specifically tailored to the unique systems of the RS range.

The Verdict

The Solaris 68 RS is a definitive choice for the sailor who refuses to compromise between the raw satisfaction of a performance hull and the sophisticated comfort of a luxury motor sailor. It excels as a long-distance cruiser for a couple or a small family who values Italian aesthetics and structural rigour.

Pros:

• Exceptional 360-degree visibility from the raised saloon.
• High-performance hull capable of competitive regatta speeds.
• Clean, "easy-sailing" deck layout suitable for short-handed use.
• Superior construction quality and carbon-reinforced stiffness.

Cons:

• High technical complexity requires a rigorous maintenance schedule.
• Deep draft may limit access to some shallower cruising grounds.
• Premium pricing reflects its position as a high-end semi-custom build.