The RS100, first launched in 2009 by RS Sailing, is a singlehanded skiff.[1] Possessing an asymmetric spinnaker[1] the boat has two PY numbers of 981 for the 10.2 rig and 1004 for the 8.4 rig.[2] The RS100 has a racing event circuit in the United Kingdom and in Europe, with the Eurotour beginning in 2011.[3]
Performance and design
A comprehensive development blog was kept throughout the design and testing and launch of the RS100.[4]
The RS100 is a lively and responsive dinghy. It planes very easily and the spinnaker more than doubles the sail area so it is fast downwind.
Upwind the RS100 is similar to or slightly faster than a standard Laser in terms of speed. Off wind it is fast for a hiking dinghy and as quick as, or slightly faster than, a RS400.
It is a stable hull with no significant vices. It does float fairly high when capsized so can be tricky to recover if the helm ends up in the water. Most helms stay dry though in the majority of capsizes.
Owners report the RS100 is a joy to sail, responsive, quick to accelerate and not unstable. It isn’t a beginners boat but helms with some experience will enjoy sailing the RS100.
Awards
2010 - Awarded Yachts & Yachting magazine's Dinghy of the Year in the UK.[5]
2011 - Voted Sailing World magazine's overall Boat of the Year in the USA magazine's 25th annual awards.[6]