2025 is a pretty special year for RS Sailing, who are celebrating 10 years of the RS Quest.
This training dinghy has become the go-to for sailing schools and youth programs all over the world. Initially created in partnership with the UK Sea Cadets to replace their aging fleet, designer Jo Richards and the RS Sailing development team wanted to make sure the RS Quest was built to break the mould. With its modern design, reliability and user-friendly features, it’s definitely changed the game when it comes to training dinghies.
To celebrate this anniversary, RS Sailing asked Lily Fox, Senior Instructor at Sea View Yacht Club, and their expert in training and fleet sales, to share her top 10 favourite features of the RS Quest.
- Handles on the Hull for Easy Capsize Recovery
A simple but brilliant feature. One of the first things beginners learn is how to right the boat after a capsize. Getting wet is part of the fun, and with the hull handles, it’s way easier for students to flip the boat back over. These handles help reduce any fear and make the recovery process much smoother.
- Hull Design with Drain Holes Under the Bench Seats
These little drain holes on the underside of the bench seats are genius. Don’t be confused by the name, these actually take-on water when the boat capsizes, serving as a ballast. One common issue with plastic boats is their buoyancy – when they capsize, they tend to float too high, making it difficult for a sailor to climb up to the centreboard and right the boat. These drain holes collect water, allowing the RS Quest to sit lower in the water. This makes it easier to reach the centreboard and flip the boat back over (then the water drains out again). The added weight also helps maintain stability, keeping things safe and stable, even when conditions get a bit tricky.
- Kick-Up Rudder System
Anyone who’s been near a slipway knows the potential damage that can happen when a rudder meets the shore too roughly! The RS Quest’s kick-up rudder system flips the rudder up when it hits something, so it doesn’t get wrecked. It makes launching and recovering a whole lot easier, and saves the boat from unnecessary wear and tear.
- Easy Slab Reefing System
Training centres want their boats to be ready for anything, from light winds to tougher conditions. The RS Quest’s slab reefing system lets you quickly adjust the mainsail, so the boat stays stable and easy to handle no matter what the weather’s doing. It’s a game-changer for keeping things safe and extending the sailing season.
- Moulded Towing Points at the Bow and Stern
The RS Quest’s built-in towing points are a smart addition. They make it easy to tow multiple boats at once without risking damage to the fixtures or fittings. Perfect for getting boats back to shore or driving out a bunch of dinghies in a row, these tow points are practical and seamless.
- Quick and Easy Mast Set-Up
The two-part RS Quest mast makes transport and set-up a breeze. The pin system is super easy to use, so one person can rig the boat. Plus, the pivoting mast heel makes rigging a hassle-free process. A quick set-up means more time on the water – perfect for busy training sessions!
- Spacious Cockpit for Maximum Comfort
Whether you’re taking kids out for a first lesson or sailing with a group of adults, the RS Quest’s wide cockpit gives you tons of space. The forward-mast design creates room for multiple crew members and an instructor, making it ideal for lessons. Beyond sailing schools, the spacious design makes it great for families too. You can pack in a picnic, gear for swimming and snorkelling, or even camping stuff for lakeside adventures – check out Sublime Sailing’s YouTube channel for some cool ideas!
- Furling Jib System
Simplicity is key, and the furling jib system on the RS Quest is a huge time-saver. Whether you’re packing up at the end of the day or making adjustments out on the water, it’s super easy to handle. It’s great for both instructors and students learning how to manage different sails and wind conditions.
- Halyard Pockets and Spinnaker Sock for Tidy Ropes
Let’s face it, no one likes untangling knots, especially during a sailing session. The RS Quest comes with a spinnaker sock and halyard pockets that are sewn into the sail that keep ropes neatly stored and easily accessible. These clever design features stop annoying tangles and reduce the chances of dropping lines into the water, making things safer and more efficient.
- Trapeze and Spinnaker Options for Advanced Learning
When sailors are ready to take things to the next level, the RS Quest offers cool options like trapeze work and using a spinnaker (asymmetric or symmetric). These features help students build confidence, learn new skills, and prepare for more advanced sailing as they progress. It’s a great way to get them ready for bigger boats and team-based sailing!
These are just a few of Lily’s favourite features. Want to learn more? Visit the RS Quest boat page to dive deeper into its capabilities.
Get in touch with the RS Sailing UK sales team or find your nearest dealer on the Worldwide Dealer Map.
Article by RS Sailing
