The RS500 class is renowned for its welcoming, inclusive community and exhilarating racing. This high-performance, two-person, double-handed dinghy delivers exciting, responsive handling, with planing performance on the trapeze and an asymmetric spinnaker setup that rewards teamwork and skill.
The fleet attracts a diverse mix of sailors – couples, families, friends, and ambitious youth sailors stepping up from the RS Feva into an adult racing class. With a strong international presence, particularly in the UK and the Netherlands, the RS500 offers competitive racing combined with an unbeatable social scene.
Looking ahead in 2026, here are the highlights you won’t want to miss.
French Open Skiff
When: 4-6 April 2026
Where: Lac de Der, France
The French Open Skiff at Lac du Der is a relaxed, friendly event that perfectly captures the spirit of the French skiff scene. Set on a beautiful, tranquil lake, it offers excellent racing conditions and great camaraderie both on and off the water.
In 2025, Emma and Luke McEwen claimed victory, showcasing impressive teamwork and boat handling. Thanks to its central European location, the venue is easily accessible from Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, and via Calais, making it a popular choice for international sailors.
More Info: RS500 Class Association
RS500 European Championship (The RS Games)
When: 17-22 July 2026
Where: Travemünde, Germany
The RS500 European Championship will be a true highlight of the season, forming part of the RS Games – the four-yearly festival that brings the entire RS Sailing community together. With sailors expected from across Europe and beyond, this promises to be a highly international and competitive championship.
In 2026, the RS Games are hosted within Travemünder Woche, one of Europe’s largest and most famous sailing festivals. Expect world-class racing, a buzzing boat park, and an unforgettable onshore atmosphere with thousands of sailors on site.
The event timing also creates a unique opportunity for youth and mixed-class sailors: competitors can finish the final morning of RS500 European racing and then switch straight into the RS Feva World Championship, which begins later that same day (22–26 July), allowing for back-to-back world-class events.
More Info: RS Games 2026
RS500 Noble Marine UK National Championships
When: 3-6 September 2026
Where: Royal Torbay Yacht Club, Devon, United Kingdom
The RS500 Noble Marine UK National Championships are the pinnacle of the UK season. Hosted in the stunning waters of Torbay, sailors can expect high-quality race management, challenging conditions, and spectacular scenery.
In 2026, the RS500 fleet will share the experience with the RS700 and RS800 classes, who will be running their national championships at the same venue and time. This combined event promises a fantastic atmosphere both on the water and ashore, strengthening the sense of community across the RS performance fleets.
More Info: RS500 UK Class Association
The Full Class Calendar
Beyond the major championships, there’s a strong mix of open meetings and regional events throughout the year across Europe. In the UK, sailors can take part in the full five-event Rooster National Tour, while the Netherlands offers a packed calendar including training weekends and multiple racing opportunities. Whether you’re looking to develop skills or compete regularly, there’s an event to suit every crew.
Ready to Get Involved?
The RS500 class is all about racing hard and playing hard. With a fun, welcoming European community, it’s perfect for sailors who are young at heart, love to travel, and enjoy a great party after a day on the water.
Curious to hear what the sailors think? Check out our blogs from RS500 owners, transitioning from the RS Feva to RS500, and recaps of the World Championships, and discover why so many crews make this class their long-term sailing home.
