Two RS200s luffing each other up is a pretty common sight at any UK sailing club, but it’s the first time we’ve lined two up on an RS Sailing stand – ever! Buffed to perfection, you might find it hard to believe there are three decades between their builds, 1996 and 2026. The RS200 is known for attracting rock stars and newbies like almost no other class. It was one of RS’s first and it remains one of our favourites.
RS is run by sailors, for sailors, and our classes are the beating heart of everything we do. The idea behind RS was born when a small group of sailors sat on a Cornish sea wall over thirty years ago and talked about moving the game forward — and three decades on, it’s clear they’ve done just that. In 2026, the RS family is more widespread than ever. We might not remember every customer’s sail number these days, but we’re striving with renewed passion to nurture our classes, deliver top-notch customer care, support vibrant events and build magnificent British boats. All the things RS was celebrated for back in the day, remains our goal for 2026 and beyond.
RS200 205, confirmed by Nick Peters as RS200 number 4, was built in January 1996 by Richard Woof Marine. Originally bright red, it was fitted out at Hither Green Lane, London by our very own MD, Alex Newton-Southon. The boat came to RS from Pete Vincent at West Country Boat Repairs, he was passing it on for a customer, and it was in need of some real TLC late last year. Torn between paying traditional homage to the original boat and showing that you can teach an old boat new tricks, the workshop team pulled out all the stops. Now, 205 is sporting one serious glow-up that would see her right at the front of the fleet. Alongside 205 sits a brand new RS200, built in January 2026 by our skilled team at our new manufacturing facility in Cowes. Architecturally, it’s hard to spot any difference between the two, but the trusty hull decals set them apart — one sporting the classic script, the other with bolder intentions. Both magenta drenched and ‘noughty’ to the core.
There aren’t many classes that, after 30 years, can boast such a vibrant community. You’d be hard pressed to argue that the RS200 isn’t the most popular double hander in the country, with National Championship fleets topping 175 boats in recent years. From Olympians to club racers, the class welcomes everyone with the friendly, cheeky charm you’d expect from one of RS’s original classes. With fierce racing on the water and a social calendar that makes Freshers’ Week look low key, the RS200 class is on fire.
Alex Newton-Southon, RS Sailing MD, commented: “We’re immensely proud of the RS200, but we’re equally humbled by it. From Phil Morrison’s design and skilled British manufacturers, to those early adopters, volunteers, committee members, incredible sailing clubs and committed sailors who take to the water to race their RS200s week in, week out — we’re so grateful to you. Yes, the boat is a delight to sail, but it’s the people who make the RS200 such a special class.”
This winter, the RS team has been in detailed talks with the RS Class Associations. Off the back of those conversations, we’ve worked closely with our suppliers to reduce the cost of our ‘noughty’ parts and spares. We want to give back to the classes and sailors who have been with us from the very beginning. The continued trust and support from the sailing community really does mean everything to us.
We’ve also listened carefully to customers and reviewed our boat packages. Introducing RS Bespoke — you start with the price of a hull, spars and foils, and from there you create a package that suits your sailing. Whether you’re hoarding sails in the loft, devoted to a particular brand of rope, or planning to transfer your nearly new top cover to your next boat, you can craft a package that works for your quirks and your budget.
When it comes to memory making events, the RS Games is the pinnacle of the 2026 RS calendar, and the team is on hand to talk you through everything you need to know. If you love great racing, sunshine, seaside festival vibes and infectiously friendly people, mark your calendar now — Travemünder Woche 2026 is calling.
If you’re just starting out, our class association volunteers will happily share their busy regional calendars and their tips to ensure your first events away from the club are not only positive, but completely addictive.
Come and take a peek at the RS200s by joining the RS Team and a boatload of RS Class Association volunteers on the RS Sailing stand this weekend at the RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show, 21–22 February 2026. Get your tickets here!
