According to a news release from England’s RS Sailboats, New RS21 is aimed to “to help bring popularity back to keelboat racing.”
RS Sailboats, winner of multiple Sailing World Boat of the Year awards over the past few years has certainly become the most progressive builder of new dinghies and small keelboats. They're integrated into many sailing programs in Europe and the United States, and with direct feedback from program directors, they're listening to what new and experienced sailors desire, and this boat, they say, is the result of exhaustive development.
The price range is the “mid-30s” with asymmetric spinnaker package (plus inbound freight), says RS’s Riki Hooker, but that’s not a firm price, yet. “The RS21 keelboat responds to the need for a progressive, simple and affordable solution for keelboat clubs that increasingly see the opportunity for fleet ownership, league competition and training,” says Hooker.
We look forward to sailing the boat in when it arrives in the States later this year, but until then, here’s he new-boat announcement straight from the source:
Development of the boat was inspired by direct approach to RS Sailing by several leading keelboat programs. The design puts close racing over ultimate performance - convenient ownership over complexity - it maximizes low maintenance and value. This is the boat to bring wider availability, enjoyment and popularity back to keelboat racing.
The RS21 is both high quality and a sound financial proposition. Realistic costs allow appealing club charter fees – or affordable investment by syndicates of sailing friends. Team up and do it together.
RS Sailing’s sustainability focus means the RS21 also leads the way in terms of eco-friendly construction, with the hull built at Cowes on the Isle of Wight using bio-derived resins and recycled core materials. The deck design and lifting or removable keel system facilitate stacking for freight and travel efficiency. An optional rechargeable and retractable electric propulsion system is also integrated into the design. This boat is all about the future of sailing, in all its aspects.
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RS 21 Stats
LOA 6.34m – Beam 2.2m – Draft 1.38m
No-hiking rule
2-part carbon fiber mast – for convenient storage and transport
Retractable carbon composite bowsprit
One Design and Club sails specification options
Optional symmetrical spinnaker
Optional integrated, rechargeable & retractable electric sail-drive propulsion
