At RS Sailing, innovation drives everything we do. That’s why we designed the RS Zest with one purpose in mind: to make learn-to-sail programs more effective, enjoyable, and accessible. Here are the top 10 features that make the RS Zest the go-to boat for training centres around the world.
1) Centre Mainsheet for Simplified Handling & Improved Safety
The RS Zest has a centre mainsheet system, which keeps lines clear of water. This is especially helpful for beginners learning how to tack and gybe without getting tangled in the tiller. For instructors, this set-up also prevents the mainsheet from dangling out of the back of the boat and getting caught in the rudder – especially helpful when towing multiple dinghies out to a training area!
2) Bright, High-Visibility Mainsail
The bright-yellow Dacron sail ensures excellent visibility on the water, making it easy for instructors to track students sailing their RS Zests. Whether it’s sunny or overcast, this mainsail acts as a floating beacon for added safety. The vertical battens and furling design allow for easy set-up, reefing and storage while maintaining a shape that’s perfect for learning.
3) Innovative Mast Gate Design
The RS Zest features a unique mast gate with a small, moulded lip. While our traditional “Clunk & Click” mast gate ensures the mast stays secure, the additional lip helps prevent the mast from falling back during set-up. This simple yet effective design provides extra security and makes mast rigging easier for instructors and students, even without the gate fully in place.
4) Multi-Purpose Thwart
The RS Zest features a thwart, which is actually an uncommon feature for a boat of this size. The thwart provides a confidence-boosting seating option for novice crew members, encouraging them to face forward. This natural positioning teaches new sailors to focus on the bow while sailing, ensuring they learn important steering habits.
5) User-Friendly Rudder
The “Lift & Lock” rudder system is designed for simplicity and durability. It clips in and out easily, and if students accidentally run aground, it will automatically flip up. Made from hard-wearing polypropylene, the rudder blade is both practical and reliable for training purposes.
6) Pivoting Centreboard
Unlike many boats of its size, the RS Zest features a centreboard instead of a daggerboard – this is another unique design in this category of boat. Similar to the rudder design, if an inexperienced sailor runs the boat aground, this is a great safety feature as the pivoting centreboard pops-up. This feature also serves as a visual indicator for students, helping them recognise when they need to adjust their position or technique, and avoiding damage to the boat.
7) Grab Handles for Easy Capsize Recovery
When it comes to learning to sail, capsizes are a part of the process! That’s why we’ve moulded convenient handles under the RS Zest’s hull – making it easy to grab and right the boat after a capsize. These handles ensure that recovering from a full turtle is simple, safe, and quick.
8) Durable and Stable Hull
The RS Zest’s rugged roto-moulded polyethylene hull offers incredible durability, making it perfect for busy training environments. This hard-wearing material provides reassuring stability, allowing sailors to gain confidence whether they are sailing solo, with family, or in a group setting. Additionally, the unique design of the bow ensures that the boat remains level even when carrying extra weight, ensuring excellent performance in all conditions.
9) Spacious, Comfortable Cockpit
The cockpit of the RS Zest is designed with comfort in mind. The boom is set high to prevent accidental head knocks, and there’s ample space to move from side to side while manoeuvring. Contoured side decks and well-positioned padded toe straps provide added comfort for sailors who are hiking, helping them stay confident and secure throughout their learning experience.
10) Optional Extras for Upgrades
The RS Zest offers a range of extras to suit different training needs. The Dacron jib can be added for student progression for further control and handling. The optional rowing kit is also a great additional for training centres or those wanting a dinghy that doubles-up as a tender. The thwart doubles as a rowing seat when the oars and oarlocks are in use, perfect for those play days on the water when the breeze just doesn’t fill in for after-school clubs.
With its combination of durability, ease of use, and well-thought design, the RS Zest is the ideal boat for sailing programs, family fun, and personal development on the water. Its innovative features continue to set the standard for modern training boats, ensuring that every sailing session is productive and enjoyable.
If you’re looking to upgrade your fleet or start a new training program, the RS Zest will revolutionize the way you teach sailing. #ZestIsBest!
For more information, contact our UK Training & Fleet Sales expert, Lily Fox, on 01794 526760. Alternatively, find your nearest dealer through our Worldwide Dealer Map.
