RS continue to produce some surprises

The new Vareo and updates on the K6 and RS700

But, not content with two new designs for next season, RS have another - recently spotted on test at Hayling Island SC - a new general purpose, multi-role boat. Coming from the makers of the formerly all race-orientated range of RS dinghies, this is their first move into the general sailing market. A market that Laser and Topper have been very successful in with their Pico and Topaz designs, both selling over 500 boats a year. An area where the holiday companies and their requirements have a considerable influence.

The new RS Vareo is set firmly in the easy to rig and sail style of multi-role fun boats. A simple, stable hull shape, from Phil Morrison, with minimal sail and rig controls and a semi-stayed mast. The mast has shrouds but no forestay, the shrouds being to support the mast when the asymmetric is used, set on a short bowsprit.

At 4.25m length and 1.7m beam the Vareo is a size bigger than existing competitors and looked a good weight carrier when sailed two-up. It is intended to offer two sail sizes, the standard fun sail and a larger sport version which, with three full length battens and the asymmetric, will open the way for a very clever, simple single-handed racer.

This would seem to be a hull that will be open to more variations as time goes on, allowing RS to develop a separate range of simpler boats but still with their distinctive flair. With the first boats being delivered in February and Sunsail rumoured to have already placed an order, this new development from RS will be one to watch.