Built to Last: The RS200 Story, 30 Years On

Three decades apart, side by side, can you spot the difference? At the RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show 2026, RS Sailing Managing Director Alex Newton-Southon and Head of GRP Production Marty Miller compared a 1996 RS200 with a brand new 2026 model - and it’s remarkable just how true the boats remain to the original design. The 1996 boat (205) was found on a listing and bought as a passion project by members of the RS Sailing team, who restored it for the show - proving just what’s possible when you buy a used boat and give it some love. The RS200 is known for attracting rock stars and newbies like almost no other class. It was one of our first models and it remains one of our favourites, and 30 years on, the class still boast such a vibrant community. Marty talks through the strength of the RS200’s one-design philosophy, why these boats stand the test of time, and the production improvements made over the years. With new RS200s now built completely in-house at RS Cowes, enhanced quality control is delivering the best-finished boats yet. Built to last. Built to race. Built for everyone. #rssailing #sailitliveitloveit