What is Radio Controlled Sailing?
How it works
RC stands for Remote Control. The boats are equipped with a radio receiver controlling the rudder servo and the sail winch. The sailor stands on the shore and manages his boat (sails, rudder, trimming) using the radio transmitter.
The boats are driven forward only by the wind - no engines are allowed.
Who's Sailing?
Radio Control sailing is suitable for men and women, young and old, top sailors and newcomers,
able bodied and disabled - and it's great fun!!
Sailing an RC boat is simple, but because of the hi-tech constructions and the demanding racing (rules,
knowledge of sailing theory, need for fast decisions) the typical RC-sailor is between 18 and 80 years old.
The Boats
Some of the RC-sailboats are constructed of hi-tech materials such as kevlar and carbon fibre. The advanced boat constructor and do-it-yourself model builder will enjoy building a boat from scratch or using various kits or parts available on the market. The beginners may buy their boats, new or second-hand. You may get hold of a good boat for less than $300, or you may pay more than $5000 for a world class, hi-tech boat.
Racing at Many Levels
The more advanced sailors interested in racing will find, that there are several international RC sailboat classes. Competitions follow the rules of the International Yacht Racing Union (ISAF), as the RC sailing is recognised as a class by the ISAF. There are races on many levels; anything from small training races at the various clubs to the World Championships (arranged bi-annually).