Sea Scouts get a fun head start in RS Feva class
by NZ Sailcraft 15 Oct 03:00 BST
15 October 2021
RS Feva has been chosen by Sea Scouts Aotearoa as their two-person boat. © Sea Scouts Aotearoa
Scouts Aotearoa is the latest organisation to identify the two-handed RS Feva as the path forward for youth sailors, especially those youth in the Sea Scout Branch of the organisation. It now has boats in Nelson, Auckland and Dunedin, and Gisborne will receive theirs very soon.
Glen Kenny explains that Sea Scouts wanted a boat that would get youth hooked into what is a great recreational activity and sport when it replaced its aging Sunburst fleet.
It was a big decision - but also a logical one to invest in the RS Feva.
"We needed something around the same size and weight that was as easy to sail as the Sunburst. Additionally, we were after a durable boat that could handle the usual wear and tear that they could be expected to during their lifetime, something that wouldn't require hours of volunteer support to keep in seaworthy condition. Lastly, we wanted a completely standard class rather than the large variations in Sunbursts that exist.
The RS Feva, which is equipped for two-handed sailing with a mainsail, a headsail and a gennaker, is described by RS Sailing as the world's leading double handed dinghy for youngers and parents/child teams. It provides exciting performance, and is highly practical too, both on and off the water.
Glen enjoyed working with NZ Sailcraft to build the fleet too. "They have great support and a good understanding of working with a volunteer organisation," he says.
It's clear that the RS Sailing boats have found their place in the New Zealand sailing scene, alongside the classes that we know and love.
Andersons Bay Sea Scouts had been fundraising for a new cutter, but switched to the RS Feva. "We're super excited to show off our two new RS Fevas, all set ready for the new sailing season!" they said.
A new container load of boats arrives in New Zealand shortly. Shipping costs go up every month. Get your order in before they sell out.
Visit www.nzsailcraft.co.nz to arrange a demo and be sailing for summer!