These 2 newly established and versatile training boats in the sail training world are proving to be the boat of choice for a growing number of centers. The big sister of these two training dinghies, the RS Quest, born in 2015, was joined by her young sister, the RS Zest, in 2017. The sibling double act both serve essential functions within a training center operation and equip instructors with the perfect tools for the job. North America is home to over 300 RS Zests and as many RS Quests already, ranging from youth training programs to adult tuition centers. Here are some of the reasons the RS sister act bring music to the ears of sail training directors!
Why RS Zest?
Always learning from the feedback of our customers and with Laser Pico Designer, Jo Richards at the helm, the RS Zest was created to be the perfect boat for both single handed solo sail training and use as a mini double hander. The attractive look and modern design are eye catching for both young people and adults looking for an introduction to the sport. Here are some of the reasons centers are choosing the RS Zest:
• The rotomoulded design and thwart across the beam allow for 3 stages of sitting positions for crew to feel comfortable whilst sailing, with the ability to demonstrate progression
• Use of a Centerboard means there are less issues in shallow water
• Lock-Up & Lock-Down rudder system with Kick-Up grounding system. Simple – Strong
• The space to fit in an adult instructor, plus 2 young students with a high boom, minimizes risk
• Stable platform for a beginner to have their first solo sailing experience
For the full list of features and boat specification click here
Why RS Quest?
The RS Zest’s big sister the RS Quest has been adopted as a crewed dinghy by a huge number of centers that deliver teen and adult sail training. She creates a platform for up to 4 adults including an instructor to be comfortable in the boat, with the versatility to provide challenging technical sailing for advanced sail training. Here’s some of the features our centers love about the RS Quest:
• The simple design can be rigged by novices with little guidance
• Both Symmetrical and Asymmetrical Spinnaker set up. No need for 2 different training boats anymore!
• Lock-Up & Lock-Down rudder system with Kick-Up grounding system. Simple – Strong
• Easy reefing system
• Manageable day-sailor for rental customers and families at your centre
For the full list of features and boat specification click here
Why choose these sister training sailboats for your program?
The RS Zest and Quest were designed with each other in mind. This means we’ve given careful thought to how the students entering your center will be able to easily adapt to sailing one or both of these boats. Students who start in the RS Zest will also be able to make a seamless transition into the RS Quest, with the confidence that they are in a boat that will promote progress in the same great way.
The robust design and construction of both boats mean they are easy to maintain and up to the task of being in service at a fast-paced sail training establishment. An example of the impact and proven success of the RS Zest and RS Quest in action is in the UK Sea Cadets. With centers across the UK, the Sea Cadets have chosen to make the RS Zest and RS Quest fundamental in their program for the thousands of young sea farers they serve each year. Antony Frost, Chief Instructor of a Sea Cadet Training Center said, “The Quest and Zest serve very different, but equally essential parts of our training program, they’re both used every week by our cadets.”
Using our RS sister act as the boats of choice for you program makes finding support something you can feel confident with. The RS Sailing team in North America are here to help you have the right equipment to get the best possible job done at your center. You can also visit our dedicated parts store online to solve all your spares needs.
Get in touch with Todd Riccardi at todd@Rssailing.com to find out how to make the RS sister act part of your fleet.