Sailboat specifications

  • Last update: 25th April 2020

RS 21's main features

  • 2019: SAIL magazine - Best Performance Boat under 30ft
  • 2019: Sailing World - Boat of the Year: Best Keelboat

RS 21's main dimensions

Rs 21's rig and sails, rs 21's performances, rs 21's auxiliary engine, rs 21's accommodations and layout.

RS Sailing RS 21  Picture extracted from the commercial documentation © RS Sailing

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From the May 2019 issue

In 2018, the British small boat specialists, RS Sailing, came to market with a new keelboat that has been generating a lot of excitement; and now it’s come to the Pacific Northwest. By the numbers, it might not seem particularly unique – it is one inch shy of 21’, displaces 1,433 lbs, draws 4’ 6”, and carries its 7’ 3” beam well aft. Yet, after sailing it, there is both a ton to like about the RS 21, and also a lot to distinguish it from its competitors.

The intent from RS Sailing was not to create the fastest 21’ sport boat in the world. In fact, much of the design intent is built around a different priority, and an RS rep told me they aren’t even calling this a sport boat. The RS 21 aims to be quick to plane and a blast to sail, while emphasizing simplicity in its systems, design, and sailing experience; all of which put it squarely in the conversation for the best available club racer and training platform. Sport boat enthusiasts might have noted that the displacement seems a tad on the heavy side for a sport boat of this size. This can be at least partly explained by the choice to endow the boat with 730 lbs of ballast. That better-than-50% ballast-to-displacement ratio clearly fits the design ethos.

The boat has a distinct and eye-catching appearance, sleek and low-slung, somewhat reminiscent of an RS Aero on steroids. I liked it from the jump. Its chamfered bow design and hard chines maximize waterline and denote modernity. Unlike nearly all of its competitors, it is an open-boat design; meaning there’s no cabin or doghouse of any kind. The boat actually is all cockpit. Forgoing what would be a tiny interior anyway means that there’s a much greater sense of space for the crew and more real estate for ergonomic rigging. There’s still a water-tight hatch in the bow that offers a surprisingly generous amount of storage for crew bags, lunch, and your beverage of choice.

The structure of the one design class is taking shape and will be inviting. The boat will be sailed with three or four, and there’s no legs out hiking allowed, making it comfortable compared to some sportier alternatives. There are restrictions on sail purchases, sail cloth usage, and professional sailor involvement, meaning an effort is being made to keep the cost of racing the boat fairly low.

I got to go sailing on the RS 21 on a puffy April day in Richmond, CA. Seeing no outboard on the transom, I assumed we would be sailing off the dock, but then Jake Sorosky, the sales rep for West Coast Sailing (the regional RS dealer) in Washington State stepped to the middle of the cockpit, released a line that was keeping the electric Torqueedo of the water, and asked me, “You want to drive us out?” This innovation is a clever solution to the auxiliary power problem on small sport boats; anyone who has ever done the contortions to stow an outboard down below will appreciate the set-it-and-forget-it ease.

We began sailing inside the harbor in flat water with wind affected by geography and some massive commercial traffic, and mystery puffs and lulls from seemingly every direction. Driving and trimming main, I had to stay on my toes but found it easy to keep the boat on its feet. After a while, I fought my instincts and started letting the big lifting puffs heel the boat without easing. We even tried powering-up in the puffs, inducing excess heel while close-hauled to see if we could lose the rudder. We couldn’t. This kind of sailing is neither comfortable nor fast, but such stability and drive-ability boggles the mind. One word that RS uses to describe the 21 is forgiving, and this is definitely accurate.

Sailing beyond the breakwater into 15-20+ knots of breeze against San Francisco Bay tide, I was aware of the boat’s relatively low freeboard. It tracked beautifully and stayed pleasant to drive, but digging a wave didn’t just slow the boat, it sent a bit of water through cockpit. Careful driving minimized this tendency. The boat seemed to like backstay and the jib, which has athwartships-adjusting leads, could be sheeted hard and still gave great shape and a well-proportioned slot.

rs 21 sailboat specifications

Upwind or down, it’s a combination of hull form and foil shape, in addition to the ballast, that makes it eminently drivable. This puts the RS 21 in stark contrast to some of its closest competitors, boats that may be faster and more powered up, but that require much more nuance of tune and trim to drive easily.

You might think all of this stability and ease makes the boat feel slow. Hardly! It was just about as easy to get on a plane as any keelboat I’ve sailed, and declaratively easier than some. It never felt heavy to me, but rather stiff and stable. We weren’t using any instruments, but on an easy plane, I’d guess we were happily cruising along in the low double-digits, pushing into the low teens in the puffs.

Of all the features, the one that gets the double-edged-sword award, in my opinion, is the mid-cockpit pedestal that doubles as a housing for the Torqueedo and the bar for the mainsheet attachment point (there is no mainsheet traveler). The backstay adjustment is also here, as is the double-ended main sheet that may be trimmed from forward or aft of this pedestal.

It has numerous positive attributes. Sheeting the main from an aft and above-the-deck position means that the boom can be trimmed to nearly centerline. Keeping the lifting motor there retains the full range of tiller-motion at the transom and keeps the weight better centered. It’s an easy foot push for the crew seated nearby. And finally, the arch in the middle is an exciting asset as a hand-hold for sailors who struggle with balance or mobility. A recent J/70 world champion installed something somewhat similar to aid him in getting from one side of the boat to the other, and this pedestal could do the same for RS 21 sailors.

The potential downside of this element is that it really is in the middle of everything. On jibes, in particular, we had a couple issues in which the extra main sheet would get caught on parts of this pedestal. There will surely be a learning curve for someone regularly sailing the boat, and it’s far from an insurmountable challenge.

Considering these unique attributes, who is the RS 21 really for? It will be a great first boat for anyone entering sport boat sailing, whether they’re adults getting into it or kids coming out of high school or college racing. Because of its simple and user-friendly approach, I think it will be a popular choice among sail training programs and clubs that provide race boats for fleet or match racing. And, among the boats of similar design, I would call the RS 21 the easiest to day sail, either short handed or with an inexperienced crew. So with this in mind, a fair answer to the question above could genuinely be: everybody.

rs 21 sailboat specifications

Joe Cline has been the Managing Editor of 48° North since 2014. From his career to his volunteer leadership in the marine industry, from racing sailboats large and small to his discovery of Pacific Northwest cruising —Joe is as sail-smitten as they come. Joe and his wife, Kaylin, welcomed a baby girl to their family in December 2021, and he is enjoying fatherhood while still finding time to sail, make music, and tip back a tasty IPA every now and again.

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Lifting keel w/bulb trans. hung rudder

Specifications RS 21

2018 - 21.00 ft / 6.40 m - Richards/Whitehouse/RS Sailing - RS Sailing

RS 21

RS 21 Sailboat Data

Hull Type: Lifting keel w/bulb, trans. hung rudder Rigging Type: Fractional Sloop LOA: 21.00 ft / 6.40 m S.A. (reported): 264.79 ft² / 24.60 m² Beam: 7.32 ft / 2.23 m Displacement: 1,433.00 lb / 650 kg Ballast: 730.00 lb / 331 kg Max Draft: 4.53 ft / 1.38 m Construction: FG First Built: 2018 Builder: RS Sailing Designer: Richards/Whitehouse/RS Sailing

Information from  sailboatdata.com .

Type Engine: Electric HP: 4.7

rs 21 sailboat specifications

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RS 21

Catalog excerpts

RS 21 - 1

RSS Team Up in Club Class The RS21 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. Pay-as-you-go. Team up and do it together. The RS21 is specifically designed for fleet purchase, with attributes that will appeal to individual buyers as well. It puts close racing over ultimate performance. Convenient ownership over complexity. It maximizes low maintenance. Comfortable ergonomics. Value. And pure sailing enjoyment. This is the boat to bring wider availability and popularity back to keelboat racing. RS Sailing's sustainability focus has actively influenced the design, resulting in a boat built from eco-friendly materials, with multiple environmental attributes. It marks significant progress over previous generations. Produced by the world's leading small sailboat brand, the RS21 is high quality and a sound financial proposition. Realistic costs allow appealing club charter fees - or affordable investment by syndicates of sailing friends. The RS21 is a safe purchase and assured of success. RS21 specification Designer Richards/Whitehouse/RS Sailing Specifications a re subject to change prior to delivery due to deletions, additions or revisions in quantities, brand or design at the sole discretion of RS Sailing.

RS 21 - 2

“The RS21 is a complete boat that is a step forward for sailing programs due to software and hardware that will change the way people have access to and partake in our sport.” High stability hull An emphasis has been placed on user friendliness in all aspects for the design. High form stability and almost 50% ballast ratio provide easy handling and enjoyable performance. The forgiving design leads to fun in every venue. Open water with waves– or gusty lake with wind shifts – the RS21 will always be your friend. Ergonomic deck We invest in the future of our sport and want our sailors to...

RS 21 - 3

The goal is also to make every RS21 sailing experience enjoyable, so the spacious cockpit will stay clean due to smart solutions to store halyards and sheets underway. Every sailor will have a roll to play and will directly understand the ease of sailing the RS21. A spaghetti of rope is history. All equipment can be stowed on board with a large hatch giving access to the hull - again adding to the RS21's operating speed and efficiency. User-friendly rig The 2-part carbon composite mast is light, safe and easy to step by hand, using the pivoting mast heel. It can be stowed within the cockpit...

RS 21 - 4

allows communication between owners, crew and all participants individually and collectively. This group will be able to share: anonymized data – compare data associated with individual performance against the fleet or (with permission) against individuals in the fleet – experiences with the group – manage the race calendar and the crew commitments – “advertise for” and find crew for events. Not just a new boat but a new way to sail! RS Sailing – credentials & value The world-leading small sailboat manufacturer, RS Sailing has created some of the most successful classes of this era. The...

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RS 21 Club One Design Keelboat

rs 21 sailboat specifications

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rs 21 sailboat specifications

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rs 21 sailboat specifications

Description

Specifications.

  • Designer : Richards / Whitehouse / RS Sailing
  • Length: 6.34m (20'11")
  • Beam: 2.20m (7'3")
  • Draught: 1.38m (4'6")
  • Displacement: 650kg (1433lbs)
  • Hull Construction: Eco-friendly composite
  • Keel: Lifting – with bulb
  • Rudder: Removable – composite
  • Mainsail area – Race: 16.2m² (175ft²)
  • Jib area – Race: 8.4m² (90.4ft²)
  • Gennaker area – Race: 40m² (430.5ft²)
  • Mainsail area – Club: 16.2m² (175ft²)
  • Jib area – Club: 8.4m² (90.4ft²)
  • Gennaker area – Club: 35m² (377ft²)
  • Spinnaker area – Club: 30m² (322.9ft²)
  • Mast: Two-part carbon composite
  • Shrouds & forestay: Stainless steel wire
  • Halyards – Main, jib, gennaker: Dyneema/polyester
  • Boom: Aluminium alloy
  • Bowsprit: Carbon composite

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New Boat: RS 21

  • By Dave Reed
  • Updated: January 19, 2018

New boats

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.

New boats

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

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The RS21 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. Pay-as-you-go. Team up and do it together. The RS21 is specifically designed for fleet purchase, with attributes that will appeal to individual buyers as well. It puts close racing over ultimate performance. Convenient ownership over complexity. It maximizes low maintenance, value and pure sailing enjoyment. This is the boat to bring wider availability and popularity back to keelboat racing. Realistic costs allow appealing club charter fees – or affordable investment by syndicates of sailing friends. The RS21 is a safe purchase and assured of success.

Sailing World Article on the RS21

OVERARCHING DESIGN GOALS

  • Progressive design for simple and affordable club & syndicate ownership
  • Balanced, quick and enjoyable sailing as a team
  • Evenly matched, close racing prioritized over ultimate performance
  • Robust and simple to maintain – efficient fleet operation
  • Sustainable aspects designed and built in
  • Eco-friendly construction using bio derived resins and recycled core materials
  • Contemporary styling for appeal that reflects cool boats of the era
  • Maximum waterline length
  • Balanced rocker line for good performance across the wind range, at the expense of maximum speed at one end or the other
  • Pronounced chines add form stability as the boat heels and shed water for a drier ride
  • Lifting bulb keel – encapsulated in GRP skins
  • Removable internal keel crane
  • Composite transom hung rudder – removable
  • Tiller extension
  • Large open cockpit with comfortable space for four crew
  • Open transom for rapid draining
  • Layout and systems allow handling by two crew if required
  • Minimal obstructions reduce bruises
  • Large central hatch for stowage of sails etc within the boat, adding operating efficiency
  • Center mainsheet can be trimmed by helm or crew
  • Kick bars give ergonomic and secure positions for all crew
  • No-hiking rule aids racing enjoyment, communication and widens strategic input
  • Deck designed to allow one hull to stack on another – for efficient event transport and improved sustainability aspects
  • Carbon composite mast reduces weight aloft to improves handling
  • Light weight and pivoting heel make the mast easy to raise by hand
  • Two-part mast – store / travel within the boat
  • Durable aluminium alloy boom
  • Carbon composite bowsprit
  • Quick to rig – 20 minutes from trailer to launch ready
  • Durable construction Club sails & larger Race sails options
  • Mainsail with single slab reef system
  • Trouble free hanked-on jib

SAIL HANDLING SYSTEMS

  • Large cockpit with comfortable space for 4 crew
  • Simple layout with clearly understandable controls
  • Large gennaker bag for efficient hoists / drops

ELECTRIC PROPULSION SYSTEM (OPTIONAL)

  • Torqeedo motor system integrated into hull & deck design
  • Sits almost invisibly behind the keel / under the mainsheet system
  • Prop leg can be raised while sailing – bottom fairing plate closes the hull recess
  • Central speed control unit & removable / rechargeable battery pack

ELECTRONICS / INNOVATIVE COMMUNITY

  • Built-in data logger – capable of sending info to a remote online site
  • Allows communication between owners, crew and all participants
  • Share anonymized data – compare performance – learn – improve
  • Manage calendars – advertise for & find crews
  • Speed / depth functions – display mobile devices
  • Symmetrical spinnaker and equipment (not required for one-design Class racing)
  • Mast head wind indicator
  • Shore cradle with wheels
  • Road trailer
  • Warps & Fenders pack
  • Anchor pack – inc chain / warp / bag

*Boat price doesn't include freight from Zim Sailing to Customer

rs 21 sailboat specifications

RS 21s take on San Francisco Bay

The weekend after big boat series, two RS 21s made the trip do...

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rs 21 sailboat specifications

RS21: Rupert Homes tests RS’ latest keelboat

rs 21 sailboat specifications

Here’s our writer Rupert Holmes’ test of what was then a brand new keelboat from RS sailing.

Since rupert’s early test back in 2018, the boat has proved another great success for rs., for any clubs considering investing, or any crews new to the boat, here’s rupert’s video from his test day, plus a slice of his original article.

rs 21 sailboat specifications

That started almost 30 years ago with the popularisation of asymmetric dinghy classes.

More recently, the company has also addressed the market for clubs, sailing schools and other organisations with a requirement for fleet use.

This includes the RS Quest, which sold more than 1,000 units in its first two years of production, and the more recent RS Zest. Whereas new designs are typically optimised for private individuals, the RS21 keelboat was developed primarily for clubs and other organisations wanting to buy a fleet of boats.

“A number of our overseas customers inspired this boat,” explains Martin Wadhams, chairman of RS Sailing.

“They feel – as we do now – that sailing needs to change and that more people will want to access a boat in a fleet, instead of one they own themselves. Those organisations also told us they didn’t believe a suitable boat existed on the market.

rs 21 sailboat specifications

There are few all-new keelboat designs that are thoroughly thought out by expert teams and that incorporate the latest advances in deck gear and rope handling. For that alone the RS21 stands out.

It’s also easy to see the attraction of a boat that’s engineered for longevity and ease of maintenance.

rs 21 sailboat specifications

While this is clearly important for fleet-owned boats, it’s also a great benefit for private owners.

On the water the boat is impressively well mannered, rewarding to sail and lots of fun. It’s easy to see it gaining popularity among both experienced sailors and those taking their first steps on a performance boat.

The entire concept around the boat is one that should encourage younger adults, who are now worryingly under-represented in the sport, the opportunity to race a quality boat in good fleets on an easy and convenient pay-per-sail basis.

As such, it’s a design that deserves to succeed.

rs 21 sailboat specifications

Production is already sold out for this year, with sales to organisations including clubs, sailing schools and holiday operators, as well as to seasoned and experienced individuals that have already started buying into the class.

Visit the RS21 web page here .

rs 21 sailboat specifications

The full version of this article first appeared in Yachts & Yachting magazine, now combined with its sister title to become Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting. Try a single issue or subscribe here .

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rs 21 sailboat specifications

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Description.

rs 21 sailboat specifications

The RS21 is the revolution sport boat sailors have been waiting for. Sustainably made, fully retractable electric inboard propulsion, and strict rules to prevent big spending. It's the boat you want to go fast on with your best friends.

The RS21 One Design is a modern keelboat designed with corinthian racing at its heart – keelboat racing the RS way.  Finished and completed so you can enjoy close one design sailing without the complex choices. The powerful rig and distinct chines are balanced by well-mannered boat handling and an ergonomic deck layout to ensure everyone sailing has a key role to play and yet ease of use. For those passionate about our planet, the RS21 was developed with sustainability at the core of its design not only in terms of materials but also the carbon footprint of the supply chain, a reduction in single use plastics and efficient logistics.

  • Progressive design for simple and affordable individual, club, and syndicate ownership
  • Robust and simple to maintain, keeping the ownership cost low
  • Sustainable aspects designed and built in - a true first in keelboats

Hull Design

  • Eco-friendly construction using bio derived resins and recycled core materials
  • Contemporary styling - it doesn’t look like anything else
  • Maximum waterline length
  • Balanced rocker line for good performance across the wind range
  • Pronounced chines for form stability as the boat heels - they also shed water for a drier ride
  • Lifting bulb keel with portable internal keel crane
  • Composite transom hung removable rudder
  • Carbon tiller and long extension
  • Large open cockpit with comfortable space for crew
  • Open transom for draining
  • Sail controls allow handling by two crew
  • Minimal obstructions in cockpit for maximum comfort
  • Forward hatch for stowage of sails etc within the boat
  • Midboom mainsheet system can be trimmed by helm or crew
  • Rear kick bars give ergonomic and secure positions for all crew
  • No-hiking rule aids racing enjoyment, communication, and widens strategic input
  • Deck designed to allow one hull to stack on another for efficient event transport and improved sustainability aspects
  • Carbon composite mast reduces weight aloft to improve handling
  • Light weight and pivoting mast able to raise manually
  • Simple aluminum boom
  • Carbon bowsprit
  • Quick to rig - 30 minutes from trailer to water
  • Two Sail Options
  • Mainsail with single slab reef system
  • Trouble free hanked-on jib

Sail Handling Systems

  • Simple layout with clearly understandable controls
  • Large gennaker bag for efficient hoists / drops

Electronic Propulsion System (Optional)

  • Torqeedo motor system integrated into hull
  • Sits almost invisibly behind the keel / under the mainsheet system
  • Rechargeable battery pack with central control pod

Additional Options

  • Spinnaker optional on club rigged boats
  • Mast head wind indicator

Specifications

  • Designer - Richards / Whitehouse / RS Sailing
  • Length - 6.34m (20'11")
  • Beam - 2.20m (7'3")
  • Draught - 1.38m (4'6")
  • Displacement - 675kg (1485lbs)
  • Hull construction - Eco-friendly composite
  • Keel - Lifting – with bulb
  • Rudder - Removable – composite
  • Mainsail area – Race - 16.2m²
  • Mainsail area – Club - 15.1m²
  • Jib area – Race - 7.7m²
  • Jib area – Club - 6.6m²
  • Gennaker area - 35m²
  • Spinnaker area - 30m²
  • Code zero area - 25m²
  • Mast - Two-part carbon composite
  • Shrouds & Forestay - Stainless steel wire
  • Halyards – Main, jib, gennaker - Dyneema/polyester
  • Boom - Aluminium alloy
  • Bowsprit - Carbon composite

Product Reviews

Shipping & returns.

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RS21 CLUB – TEAM UP & DO IT TOGETHER

R21

No. of Crew

Crew weight (kgs), no. of trapezes, max sail area (m²), find out more, ready to buy, find similar models, what the sailors are saying….

The RS21 brought us back to the fundamentals and joy of sailing while offering enough control options to reward practice and tuning. The only downside to our weekend was having to turn in the boat at the end of racing.

Skipper , San Diego NOOD

I think they’ve hit their marks on everything that I could see, and after 10 races on the boat, none of us were beat up at all. I’d jump on one of these little beauties anytime.

Editor/ Publisher , Sailing Anarchy

As the skipper, my favorite thing about the boat was the super light helm. It felt like I was whipping around my FJ (Flying Junior) it was so easy. It was also a great tool to keep the crew on their toes, as they knew I could hurl them off the boat with a quick jab to leeward.

Helm , San Diego Yacht Club Youth Team

While it’s a keel boat, it still handles an awful lot like a small dinghy. We were surfing it downwind.

Skipper , St. Petersberg NOOD

RS21 - KEELBOAT RACING THE RS WAY

Overarching Design Goals

  • Progressive design for simple and affordable club & syndicate ownership
  • Balanced, quick and enjoyable sailing as a team
  • Evenly matched, close racing prioritized over ultimate performance
  • Robust and simple to maintain – efficient fleet operation
  • Sustainable aspects designed and built in
  • Eco-friendly construction using recycled core materials
  • Contemporary styling for appeal that reflects cool boats of the era
  • Maximum waterline length
  • Balanced rocker line for good performance across the wind range, at the expense of maximum speed at one end or the other
  • Pronounced chines add form stability as the boat heels and shed water for a drier ride
  • Lifting bulb keel – encapsulated in GRP skins
  • Removable internal keel crane
  • Composite transom hung rudder – removable
  • Tiller extension
  • Large open cockpit with comfortable space for four crew and more
  • Open transom for rapid draining
  • Layout and systems allow handling by two crew if required
  • Minimal obstructions reduce bruises
  • Large central port for stowage of sails etc within the boat, adding operating efficiency
  • Centre mainsheet can be trimmed by helm or crew
  • Kick bars give ergonomic and secure positions for all crew
  • No-hiking rule aids racing enjoyment, communication and widens strategic input
  • Deck designed to allow one hull to stack on another – for efficient event transport and improved sustainability aspects
  • Carbon composite mast reduces weight aloft to improves handling
  • Light weight and pivoting heel make the mast easy to raise by hand
  • Durable aluminium alloy boom
  • Carbon composite bowsprit
  • Quick to rig – 20 minutes from trailer to launch ready
  • Durable construction Club sails & larger Race sails options
  • Mainsail with single slab reef system in club spec
  • Trouble free hanked-on jib

Sail Handling Systems

  • Large cockpit with comfortable space for 4 crew and more
  • Simple layout with clearly understandable controls
  • Large gennaker bag for efficient hoists / drops

Electric Propulsion System (optional)

  • E-Propulsion motor system integrated into hull & deck design
  • Sits almost invisibly behind the keel / under the mainsheet system
  • Prop leg can be raised while sailing – bottom fairing plate closes the hull recess
  • Central speed control unit & removable / rechargeable battery pack
  • Symmetrical spinnaker and equipment (not required for one-design Class racing)
  • Mast head wind indicator
  • Shore cradle with wheels
  • Road trailer
  • Warps & Fenders pack
  • Anchor pack – inc chain / warp / bag

SPECIFICATION

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rs 21 sailboat specifications

We are the ESTONIAn  RS21  FLEET

Welcome to the website of the estonian rs21 fleet .

With its sleek design and cutting-edge technology, the RS21 is built for speed and agility. Its wide, stable hull provides a smooth and comfortable ride, while its high-performance rigging and sail plan allow for fast and exciting sailing in all conditions.

Designed with simplicity in mind, the RS21 is easy to rig and launch, making it the ideal boat for corinthian or professional sailors and clubs looking to offer a fun and accessible racing experience. Its lightweight construction and easily transportable design make it a breeze to take to regattas and other events, and its low maintenance requirements make it an affordable and practical choice for sailors of all budgets.

But the RS21 is more than just a fast and fun keelboat - it's also designed to be versatile and adaptable to different sailing styles and needs. Whether you're looking for a boat to race, cruise, or train on, the RS21 is up to the challenge.

So if you're looking for a modern, innovative, and exciting keelboat to take your sailing to the next level, look no further than the RS21. Explore our website to learn more about the boat, find a dealer near you, and join the growing community of sailors who are discovering the thrill of sailing the RS21.

" Designed with simplicity in mind, the RS21 is easy to rig and launch, making it the ideal boat for corinthian or professional level sailors and clubs looking to offer a fun and accessible racing experience. "

Niccolo Bianchi- professional sailor and coach 

"I would highly recommend the RS21 to any sailor who is looking for a fast, versatile, and exciting keelboat to take their sailing to the next level. It's a true joy to sail with RS21"

Carlo Fracassoli-Quantum Sails Italy

"As a professional sailor, sail designer and World Champion, I have had the opportunity to sail a wide range of boats. The RS21 is great fun, an excellent compromise between speed and technique. It is a perfect boat both for young sailors who are getting off dinghies and for owners and sailors who are no longer so young. It's very simple in maneuvers and handling, but technical in trim. I really like it because it's a real one design class.

Scott Tempesta - Editor/ Publisher

"I think they’ve hit their marks on everything that I could see, and after 10 races on the boat, none of us were beat up at all. I’d jump on one of these little beauties anytime."

Jack Fenwick Global Manager of RS21 Class Association

"The RS21 keelboat is not just any boat, it is a solution for the modern-day sailor. It's a boat that brings convenience, simplicity, and affordability to the forefront, without compromising on performance or racing experience.

Whether you're looking to team up with friends or compete professionally, the RS21 caters to all. The close racing experience offered by this boat is second to none, making it the perfect choice for sailors who value the thrill of competition over ultimate performance.

Not only does the RS21 offer a great racing experience, but it is also a low-maintenance boat, ensuring that your time is spent enjoying the sport, not fixing the boat. The ergonomic design of the RS21 ensures that comfort is at the forefront, making it the perfect boat for long days on the water.

This is the boat that has the potential to bring back the popularity of keelboat racing, with its eco-friendly materials and multiple environmental attributes. It marks significant progress over previous generations, and is a testament to RS Sailing's focus on sustainability.

With the RS21, you can rest assured that you're getting a high-quality boat from the world's leading small sailboat brand. It's a sound financial investment that is guaranteed to offer success and bring joy to your sailing experience. Don't hesitate, the RS21 is the safe choice for any sailor looking to take their passion to the next level."

The One-Design RS21 has an IRC rating of 0.949

RS Sailing’s sustainability focus has actively influenced the design, resulting in a boat built from eco-friendly materials, with multiple environmental attributes. It marks significant progress over previous generations. Produced by the world’s leading small sailboat brand, the RS21 is high quality and a sound ­financial proposition. The RS21 is a safe purchase and assured of success."

- News & Articles

  • Masters Cup
  • Training room

IMAGES

  1. RS 21 race (RS Sailing) sailboat specifications and details on Boat

    rs 21 sailboat specifications

  2. RS 21 sailboat by RS Sailboats

    rs 21 sailboat specifications

  3. RS21

    rs 21 sailboat specifications

  4. RS21 Introductory Pricing Offer + First Boat In Stock

    rs 21 sailboat specifications

  5. RS21 Keelboat

    rs 21 sailboat specifications

  6. RS Sailing 21: Prices, Specs, Reviews and Sales Information

    rs 21 sailboat specifications

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  5. 2023 RS Aero North Americans

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COMMENTS

  1. RS 21

    A boat with a BN of 1.6 or greater is a boat that will be reefed often in offshore cruising. Derek Harvey, "Multihulls for Cruising and Racing", International Marine, Camden, Maine, 1991, states that a BN of 1 is generally accepted as the dividing line between so-called slow and fast multihulls.

  2. RS 21

    Sailboat specifications. The RS 21 is a 20'10" (6.34m) multiple crew sport keel boat designed by Jo Richards (United Kingdom) and RS Sailing (United Kingdom). She is built since 2018 by RS Sailing (United Kingdom). The Race version comes as standard with better hardware allowing more possibilities to trim sails.

  3. PDF Keelboat racing the RS way

    The RS21 is all about fun and level competition, rather than extreme performance. The retractable bowsprit gives clearance for the gennaker and easy gybing downwind, retaining absolute simplicity in set-up and sailing. A symmetrical spinnaker is an optional addition, suited to sailing on restricted waters.

  4. RS21 ONE DESIGN

    The RS21 One Design is a modern keelboat designed with corinthian racing at its heart - keelboat racing the RS way. Finished and completed so you can enjoy close one design sailing without the complex choices. The powerful rig and distinct chines are balanced by well-mannered boat handling and an ergonomic deck layout to ensure everyone ...

  5. Test Sailing the RS 21

    48° North. Boat Test. From the May 2019 issue. In 2018, the British small boat specialists, RS Sailing, came to market with a new keelboat that has been generating a lot of excitement; and now it's come to the Pacific Northwest. By the numbers, it might not seem particularly unique - it is one inch shy of 21', displaces 1,433 lbs, draws ...

  6. RS21

    RS21. The RS 21, first launched in 2018 [1] by RS Sailing and is a one design keelboat. Design for between 3 and 5 people to race competitively. The class gained World Sailing class status in 2021 and held it first recognised World Championship. [2] With the initial fleet in Europe being joined by fleets in North America [3] the class continues ...

  7. Specifications RS 21

    RS 21 Sailboat Data Hull Type: Lifting keel w/bulb, trans. hung rudder Rigging Type: Fractional Sloop LOA: 21.00 ft / 6.40 m S.A. (reported): 264.79 ft² / 24.60 m² Beam: 7.32 ft / 2.23 m Displacement: 1,433.00 lb / 650 kg Ballast: 730.00 lb / 331 kg Max Draft: 4.53 ft / 1.38 m Construction: FG First Built: 2018 Builder: RS Sailing Designer ...

  8. RS 21

    The RS21 is a safe purchase and assured of success. RS21 specification Designer Richards/Whitehouse/RS Sailing Specifications a re subject to change prior to delivery due to deletions, additions or revisions in quantities, brand or design at the sole discretion of RS Sailing. Open the catalog to page 1

  9. PDF RS 21 Specification 2017

    Designed by Richards / Whitehouse / RS Sailing Length: 6.34m (20'11") Beam: 2.20m (7'3") Draft: 1.38m (4'6") Displacement: 675kg (1485lb) Construction - hull Eco-Friendly Composite Keel Lifting - with bulb ... Microsoft Word - RS 21 Specification 2017.docx

  10. RS 21 Club One Design Keelboat

    Ideal for balanced, quick and enjoyable sailing as a team. Evenly matched, close racing prioritized over ultimate performance. Robust and simple to maintain - efficient fle. ... RS 21 Club One Design Keelboat; Need Help? Call us at 1-800-941-2219. ... Specifications. Designer : Richards / Whitehouse / RS Sailing; Length: 6.34m (20'11") Beam ...

  11. New Boat: RS 21

    The RS21, a GRP boat is a keelboat designed for programs and international class racing. RS Sailing. According to a news release from England's RS Sailboats, New RS21 is aimed to "to help ...

  12. RS Sailing 21: Prices, Specs, Reviews and Sales Information

    RS Sailing 21 Specifications. The RS Sailing 21 is produced by the brand RS Sailing since 2017. RS Sailing 21 is a 6.34 meters sport dinghy with a draft of 1.38 meters. The yacht has a fiberglass / grp hull with a CE certification class (B) and can navigate no further than 200 miles off the coastline. The base price of a new RS Sailing 21 is ...

  13. PDF CLASS RULES 2021 V1

    Do you want to join the RS21 class and race with the latest keelboat design? Then you need to know the RS21 class rules, which define the specifications, limitations and obligations for the boat and its equipment. Download the PDF version of the RS21 class rules v.1.16 (22/09/21) and learn how to comply with the standards and enjoy fair and exciting racing.

  14. RS21

    Pay-as-you-go. Team up and do it together. The RS21 is specifically designed for fleet purchase, with attributes that will appeal to individual buyers as well. It puts close racing over ultimate performance. Convenient ownership over complexity. It maximizes low maintenance, value and pure sailing enjoyment.

  15. RS Sailing and the technical aspects of the keelboat dinghy

    January 27, 2018. The RS21 Keelboat has been three years in the making and promises to change the game of club keelboat racing. Alex Newton-Southon - Managing Director (Technical) RS Sailing gives an insight into the Technical Development of the RS21 Keelboat. "It is so exciting to be launching the RS21 here at Boot, Düsseldorf this year.

  16. RS21: Rupert Homes tests RS' latest keelboat

    For that alone the RS21 stands out. It's also easy to see the attraction of a boat that's engineered for longevity and ease of maintenance. (c) RS Sailing. While this is clearly important for fleet-owned boats, it's also a great benefit for private owners. On the water the boat is impressively well mannered, rewarding to sail and lots of fun.

  17. RS21

    Let West Coast Sailing help you find the right RS sailboat. Free Shipping Over $99* - 366 Day Returns - Dedicated Customer Support. Menu. Search. ... RS Zest Resources; RS 21 Resources; Tasar Resources; 29er Resources; Vanguard 15 Resources; ... Specifications. Designer - Richards / Whitehouse / RS Sailing; Length - 6.34m (20'11")

  18. RS21

    RS21 - A Sailboat for Everybody. January 16, 2019. The RS21 is intended to be a fast, safe keelboat for sailors of all abilities. Soundings Online - Pim Van Hemmen. There were plenty of large boats in the water at the recent United States Sailboat Show in Annapolis, Maryland. They were fun to tour and drew large crowds.

  19. RS 21: new keel boat from the Dinghy specialists

    Now it is officially out: RS Sailing comes with a new keel boat on the market. The RS 21 will be seen in a week, as a world novelty at the fair in Düsseldorf. You must be very excited. The of 6.34 meters long and 2.20 meters wide sport boat to offer especially for the rapid build-up of strong fleets in Clubs and associations, the idea.

  20. PDF Keelboat racing the RS way

    Sailing's Para programme. The stunning RS Elite keelboat that demonstrates RS's ability to understand the sailors and create a boat they love. RS Sailing wants to be the best partner for the sport. That means that we want to service all sailing federations, clubs and schools - take complexity out of the sport where we can. Creating a modern,

  21. RS21 CLUB

    DOWNLOADS. PRICING. The RS21 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. Pay-as-you-go. Team up and do it together. The RS21 is specifically designed for fleet purchase, with attributes that will appeal to ...

  22. Home

    RS Sailing's sustainability focus has actively influenced the design, resulting in a boat built from eco-friendly materials, with multiple environmental attributes. It marks significant progress over previous generations. Produced by the world's leading small sailboat brand, the RS21 is high quality and a sound ­financial proposition. ...

  23. SR 21

    A boat with a BN of 1.6 or greater is a boat that will be reefed often in offshore cruising. Derek Harvey, "Multihulls for Cruising and Racing", International Marine, Camden, Maine, 1991, states that a BN of 1 is generally accepted as the dividing line between so-called slow and fast multihulls.