Status 580 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Status 580 is defined by its nimble, dinghy-like responsiveness, a direct result of its light displacement—approximately 880 pounds—and a generous sail-area-to-displacement ratio (SA/Disp) exceeding 32. This high ratio confirms the boat’s identity as a performance-oriented craft that excels in light-to-moderate air. Unlike the heavier, more sluggish cruisers of its era, the 580 utilizes a fractional sloop rig with a relatively large mainsail and a smaller, easily handled jib, which simplifies tacking and allows for precise sail trimming.

The hull's 30% ballast ratio provides a surprising degree of stiffness for a 19-foot boat, though it remains "active" in heavy gusts, requiring an experienced hand on the tiller and traveler. With a minimum draft of just six inches with its swing keel retracted, the Status 580 is exceptionally well-suited for the shallow estuaries and sandbars common in Australian coastal sailing. Under sail, owners frequently report that the boat tracks well but rewards those who maintain proper weight distribution, reflecting its racing dinghy heritage. Its ability to plane under spinnaker in brisk conditions remains one of its most cited "fun factors" in regional regattas.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the original Status 580 is best described as "camp accommodation." The cabin provides basic shelter with a V-berth arrangement suitable for two adults or children, though headroom is strictly limited to a sitting position. The focus of the design is clearly on the cockpit, which occupies a significant portion of the 19-foot length to accommodate a full racing crew or a family of four during day trips.

A major evolution occurred later in the production run with the introduction of the Status Slipstream. This sibling model was developed specifically to meet updated Australian Yachting Federation rules, which required more substantial internal amenities for a vessel to be classified as a "trailer sailer." The Slipstream variant features a significantly larger cabin house and more robust sleeping arrangements. According to the archives at RL Yachts, the Slipstream also received a "hotted-up" rig with 36% more sail area, effectively turning the boat into a high-performance weekender that could bridge the gap between a pure racer and a coastal cruiser.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Status 580 and its Slipstream variant have maintained a consistent presence in the Australian "Bay to Bay" race, a prestigious trailable yacht event. The boat’s competitive edge was famously demonstrated in the early 1980s when the Slipstream variant, modified by Jon Simmonds of Timpenny Yachts, proved capable of beating much larger Division 1 boats on corrected time. While not as internationally famous as Legg's RL24, the Status 580 is often cited in technical discussions regarding the transition from plywood to GRP construction in the 1970s.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

1. Swing Keel Assembly: The 120kg steel swing keel is a primary maintenance point. Buyers should inspect the pivot pin for wear and the lifting cable for fraying. Corrosion in the centerboard case can lead to the keel jamming, a common issue in older fiberglass trailer sailers.
2. Deck Core Delamination: While the hulls are solid fiberglass, the decks were often cored for stiffness. Soft spots around the mast step or the chainplates indicate moisture ingress and delamination, requiring labor-intensive repair.
3. Rudder Transom Fatigue: Because the Status 580 is often sailed hard, the transom area around the rudder gudgeons should be checked for spiderweb cracking or flexing, which suggests the need for structural reinforcement.
4. Rigging and Spreader Bases: On the Slipstream models particularly, the larger rig puts significant stress on the spreader bases and mast hounds. Ensure these are securely fastened and free of corrosion.

Community & Resources

The legacy of the Status 580 is preserved primarily through the RL24 Owners Association, which serves as a technical hub for all Rob Legg-built designs. While a dedicated Status-only association is no longer active, the RL Yachts community provides comprehensive access to original brochures, class rules, and sail plans. Technical wikis maintained by owners offer invaluable advice on modernizing the 580’s fractional rig and centerboard mechanics.

The Verdict

The Status 580 is a "purist’s" trailer sailer—a boat that prioritizes the joy of sailing and ease of transport over luxury. It is an ideal choice for the sailor moving up from a dinghy who desires the security of a ballasted keel and the option for occasional overnighting.

Pros:

• Exceptional light-air performance and responsiveness.
• Easy to trail and launch behind a standard family vehicle.
• Strong pedigree from Van de Stadt and Rob Legg.
• Very shallow draft for beaching and estuary exploration.

Cons:

• Very limited interior volume and headroom in the 580 version.
• Requires active sail management in heavy weather.
• Potential for keel-case maintenance issues in aging hulls.