The RS Aero is celebrating its 10th anniversary, and it has truly made a mark in the world of sailing. This lightweight, fast, and easy-to-handle boat has become one of the most popular single-handed dinghies. Whether you're a competitive sailor or someone who just loves being on the water, the RS Aero offers an unmatched experience. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this boat so special.
A Boat Designed for Performance
The RS Aero was designed by Jo Richards and the RS Development team, who wanted to create a simple yet high-performing sailboat. They succeeded. The boat weighs only 33kg, making it incredibly easy to transport, launch, and sail. Its light weight also means that sailors of all sizes can handle it with ease.
One of the most impressive aspects of the RS Aero is its carbon rig and four different rig sizes (5, 6, 7, and 9 square meters of sail area). This means the boat can be adjusted to suit different sailors, from younger competitors to experienced racers. Whether you're looking for speed or control, the Aero delivers.
The boat’s design has been praised worldwide. During the 2024 Olympic trials back in 2019, the evaluation panel described it as "fun, fast, and appealing." They highlighted its lightweight structure, high-quality materials, and clever engineering, making it one of the best single-handed dinghies in the world.
Since its launch, the RS Aero has built a strong global community. There are over 3,600 RS Aero boats in more than 60 countries. The class is open to sailors of all ages, from young racers to those in their 80s. It’s a fantastic boat for juniors looking to transition into bigger racing classes, as well as for adults wanting a new challenge.
The flexibility of the Aero class allows sailors to switch between different rig sizes based on wind conditions and skill level. The boat's design rewards good technique, meaning that with practice, sailors can improve their racing skills significantly.
But the RS Aero isn't just about racing. Many sailors have taken it on exciting adventures, exploring coastlines and sailing long distances. Its lightweight structure makes it easy to carry and transport, opening up endless possibilities for fun on the water.
The Social and Racing Scene
One of the best things about the RS Aero community is its social scene. Sailing events are filled with friendly competition, knowledge-sharing, and good times. Sailors often stay up late at yacht club gatherings, sharing stories and building friendships. The RS Aero Class Association is dedicated to running training programs and coaching sessions, helping sailors of all skill levels improve their abilities.
Racing in the RS Aero class is highly competitive yet fair. Since the boat has remained largely unchanged over the last 10 years, sailors don’t have to worry about expensive upgrades or constant modifications. This ensures that the focus stays on skill rather than equipment.
Also Check Out: EABOB F5 SR Water Scooter
A New Chapter in Production
After a decade of being built by MTAG, RS Aero production is now moving in-house to the RS Marine Group's facilities in Cowes, Isle of Wight. This shift will allow for tighter quality control, improved production methods, and a lower carbon footprint. More importantly, it will help reduce costs, making the Aero even more accessible to sailors around the world.
Alex Newton Southon, Co-CEO of RS Marine Group, expressed his excitement about the move. Having been involved in the Aero’s design and development from the beginning, he sees this transition as an opportunity to further strengthen the boat’s quality and reputation.
Looking Ahead to the Future
The RS Aero class is not slowing down. A packed training schedule has been created for young sailors, with several coaching weekends and online sessions planned. The class association is committed to growing the sport and developing the next generation of skilled sailors.
Exciting events are also on the horizon. The 7th RS Aero World Championship and Youth World Championship will take place from July 28 to August 2, 2025, in Quiberon, France. Shortly after, the RS Aero UK National Championship will be held at Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy, one of the best sailing venues in the UK.
The RS Aero has come a long way in just 10 years, establishing itself as one of the top single-handed sailing boats in the world. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned racer, the Aero offers an exciting, rewarding, and community-driven sailing experience. With production moving to Cowes and major events planned for 2025, the future of the RS Aero looks brighter than ever.
So, if you haven’t already, it might be time to experience the thrill of the RS Aero for yourself!
Member discussion