Step 2, RS 300?

I work away from home for half the year, two months here, two months there.

When I'm back I sail whenever I can, two or three times a week. I occasionally sail / train during the working week, though doing so means sailing alone as there aren't many others in a similar position.

I find that if my work schedule has me home for the start of the season then all is good. I'm reasonably competitive as everyone is getting up to speed after winter layup. My problem is that when I return home after a period overseas I struggle to catch up with those that have spent that time racing.

This is life, no point in complaining about it. To make the most of it I would like to be playing catch up in a boat that is more enjoyable to sail than my Laser.

I have always lusted after a Phantom. They look very well done. Those on our water are well sailed. At 80kg's I have always thought myself too light for the boat.

Which brings me to the Solution. Another boat I like, but one that hasn't seemed to take off. The Aero and D-Zero look to have superceded it. The D-Zero in particular is a good looking boat with some excellent reviews. 

Now we are looking at modern boats the RS100 needs a mention, if for no other reason than it looks like fun. Unfortunately as an asymmetric it wouldn't be best served at my Club. The reduction in the number of double handers in general and asymmetric's in particular means that we don't set courses to suit them.

The RS300 comes into the mix as an older boat at a good price, a reputation as a difficult but hugely rewarding boat to sail.

 

I haven't made a decision other than that I need to move on from the Laser. I'm still open minded about the options I have.

I would expect the learning curve with the 300 to be a rather wet one. I'm not so concerned about being successful or competitive immediately. I understand from all I have read that it is a challenging boat to sail. What does concern me is my ability to make progress with the boat with the interuptions in my sailing that my work schedule brings. 

Since last November I've raced most weeks, in the Blaze until I bought Supernova last month and every week since. I've raced 'dolly the sheep' three times so far and, after gelling with the Blaze almost straight away I'm really struggling to make her go. Try to get a test sail in the boats on your short list and remember (as somebody on here likes to say..... sorry I can't remember who or the precise words but the sentiment is more or less) "buying a boat is not a marriage, you can sell it on and buy something different without guilt"

D-Zero (serious bias here I am involved with the class) lovely boat. Described as like a 300 but more forgiving. If you want a sail in one drop me a line and i can probably put you in touch with someone local who would be willing.

I sailed a Laser for a long time (and dabbled in other classes). Had a D-Zero pretty much since launch and love it.