rc yacht sail making

How to Sail an RC Sailboat – Step by Step Instructions – 5 Minute Read

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Sailing an RC sailboat is fun, but it takes some practice before you get good at it. I certainly needed it when I started! If you want to take your interest in RC model boats to another level, then you should consider learning how to sail an RC sailboat.

However, learning how to sail RC sailboats requires patience and perseverance. There are several things that you need to master before you can begin sailing. This article will teach you how to sail a radio-controlled sailboat.

Read on below to discover tips that will avoid failure in learning how to sail model sailboats, that apply to all size boats.

Step by step Instructions

How does a yacht sail, how are the sails and rudder of an rc sailboat moved, moving forward in a straight line, sailing into the wind, sailing away from the wind, final thoughts.

First, here’s a summary step by step approach to learning how to sail an RC sailboat:

Consider joining a local club ( USA UK ) where you’ll find lots of helpful RC sailors and RC sailing events that will help you learn. You may even be tempted to get into RC sailboat racing.
In any event, choose a day with a gentle, consistent, light wind, preferably with the wind direction towards you, just in case you lose control of your boat.
Find a medium-sized lake or pond, and avoid rivers or the sea, where there may be strong undercurrents. A local club will have a safe sailing area. Look out for areas that may have weeds or reeds, or shallows that could strand your boat. Remember to factor in the depth of the keel, which, on most model sailing boats, is significant.
Check you are able to sail in your chosen area – ie no prohibitions – and keep clear of swimmers, people fishing, full sized boat traffic, and wildlife.
Avoid days when it’s busy in your sailing area with other modelers until your sailing skills are such that you can feel confident.
Set up your RC sailboat on its stand, and check the rigging is as it should be according to the boat’s instructions. Ensure you have brought the boat battery pack charger, the batteries are charged, and you have spare AA batteries for transmitter. Turn on the transmitter, and test that the rudder control and sail servos are all working properly.
Ensure you understand the basics of sailing, set out below, before launching your RC sailboat. Keep a keen eye on how your boat reacts to the wind, and be ready to react in turn by altering the sail angle to maintain the boat speed as far as possible.

The first thing you’ll need to know is how does a yacht sail? An rc sailboat sails just like a full size yacht. The wind energy pushes against the sails and flows over them, creating a difference in wind pressure on each side of the sail, which is translated to forward movement by the keel of the boat. Without the keel, the boat would be pushed in the direction of the wind.

To keep the yacht moving forward, the sail angle to the wind is adjusted depending on the position of the boat. Paradoxically, a sailing boat can sail into the wind, as well as with the wind. The only direction that can’t be sailed is with the wind directly in front.

The direction of the boat is adjusted by the rudder, which is at the back of the boat.

The following diagram shows the sail angles at different points of the wind:

As a beginner RC sailing boat helmsman, many of these terms will be confusing to you, but they will soon become familiar.

The controls of an RC boat are explained in more detail in t his article , but basically, the hull (body) of the boat contains batteries that power servos which in turn move the rudder, the main sail, and the fore sail (the “jib”). The servos are controlled by a receiver, that takes commands from the RC transmitter which you hold in your hand. Here’s a short video that explains the transmitter controls:

How to sail an RC sailing boat

First, the basic skills. With the boat in the water, start with the wind half way between the front (bow) of the boat, and the side (beam). Keeping the rudder straight, trim (move) the sails so that they are close to the hull (close hauled) and the boat should move forward. If the wind is gusty, or very strong, move your transmitter control to let out the sails, spilling the wind, to keep the boat from keeling over.

If you’re sailing into the general wind direction, you’ll need to learn to “tack”, which involves turning the boat from a position where the wind is coming on one side of the bow, through the head-on wind, to end with the wind on its other side. This is achieved by moving the rudder to turn the yacht, whilst changing the angle of the sails to the wind – see the diagram above.

So the boat moves forward via a zig zag course.

As the boat turns into the wind, it slows, so this maneuver should be completed as quickly as possible, otherwise, the boat could get stuck with the sails flapping – this is called being “in irons”.

If the direction you wish to sail in means the wind is behind the boat, it is called running before the wind. In this case, turning the boat involves “jibing”, which is the opposite of tacking.

To change direction whilst running with the wind, move the rudder so the wind goes around the back (stern) of the boat and haul the sails in. As the boat comes round, the wind will move from one side of the sails to the other.

If this is not done smoothly, it could cause the sails to violently move in the opposite direction, possibly causing damage and maybe even capsizing the boat.

So those are the basics of learning how to sail an RC sailboat. As I’ve said above, the best way to refine your skills is to get out on the water and practice.

if you have any interest in remote control sailing but aren’t sure where to begin, use the step-by-step guide above to learn how to sail an RC sailboat. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can move on to the exciting world of racing sailboats.

If you’re still considering your first RC beginner sailboat, take a look at our article on beginner RC sailboats , or for the more adventurous, consider building your own RC sailboat from a kit. More about that here .

Image credit Nick Kinkaid

About the author

It all started with a line controlled spitfire 50 years ago….

That turned into a life long interest in models, in particular radio controlled models, but I’ve only got back into it since I’ve been retired. As a result a lot has changed, and I’ve been happily starting afresh, researching into the hobby and finding answers to the questions all beginners have when starting out.

I hope you find some answers to the queries you have, and go on to enjoy all aspects of this fascinating hobby.

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Mainsail Having spent considerable time producing sails with a perfect parabolic built-in curve, it would be a pity to spoil this aerodynamic wonder by distorting it when set on its spars and used for sailing. Attachment to mast I usually tie the sail to the mast using fine spectra cord. The attachments are spread about 150 - 200 mm apart. When attached this way, it is important that the sail is allowed to move around the mast to the leeward side. Ties then should be sufficiently loose to allow this and have the same degree of looseness. One way of achieving this is to tie the cord with a small piece of material of sufficient size in the loop. The cord is tied firmly and the material removed to leave a uniform loose tie. The material that could be used includes wooden skewer, knitting needle etc. Ensure the knot does not slip! A reef knot where the ends are fed through twice holds very well - if problems still persist use a small drop of ca glue. Please avoid such adhesives from touching the sail material. The head is best attached to the mast through a pivoting mechanism. This allows the head of the sail to fall off as it should in a breeze so the sail takes up an increasing twist all the way up the sail Luff tension should be maintained at a minimum, only enough to remove any wrinkles in the lower section and sufficient to keep the luff near the mast and not blow away between the ties. If in doubt use less tension as too much will distort the shape of the sail. Generally the greater the wind strength, the more the luff tension needed. The mast must be set in a mast tube or mounted in such a way as to allow fore and aft adjustment. Rigging should then start with the mast having a slight aft lean of about 20mm at the mast top with the jib connected. There should be a mast preventer adjustable to contact the mast near the boom attachment in a tension boom vang or near the compression strut in a compression vang system Backstay Tension Backstay tension is necessary to add tension to the forestay. Sufficient tension should be added to pull the mast into a curve which almost matches the curve cut into the luff of the mainsail. The mast preventer should then be adjusted to just contact the mast with a minimum of force. The boom vang should then be tensioned to pull up the leech against gravity (i.e. boat on it's side) and still leave about 20-30mm below the plane of the mast and backstay when the boom is held in the centreline. If no mast preventer is present then any increase in wind will cause the leech tension to increase pulling the mast head aft and pushing the lower mast forward. This will twist the mainsail too much. The mast preventer stops the forward movement of the lower mast and helps hold the mast top back so delaying the bend and the twist. The forestay tension is initially determined then by the luff curve built into the mainsail and affected by mast strength and the use of the mast preventer Jib Setup The wire luff forestay built into the jib is used to take almost all of the tension of the rig. Tension in the luff of the jib should be at an absolute minimum because again tension will stretch the material and distort the shape of the sail. For this reason, I never use a separate bowsie tension adjustment at the head of the jib as there is that tendency to put too much tension in it. Instead. II tie the head to the end of the forestay wire and have a separate adjustment for the sail luff running through the front of the boom and back along the boom. This way, once adjusted, it seldom needs much change. As well, setting up the jib becomes easier as the top adjustment always seems to need adjustment as every time the forestay adjustment is moved, the jib luff also needs adjustment. How many times have you seen people adjust the forestay by making it longer to rake the mast aft a little and the whole rig tension being taken by the sail luff resulting in a distorted and stretched sail. I shudder every time and cannot keep from saying something. The other way that I see jibs being destroyed is in the use (or non use) of the jib topping lift. There will be considerable tension in this line approximating about 1/4 the tension in the forestay. This comes about because the pivot point on the jib boom is about 1/4 or 25% of the way back from the forestay attachment / tack of the jib. Reducing the distance back from the tack to say 20% reduces the force at the topping lift and vice versa. The topping lift must be tensioned to take all the load off the leech of the sail and allow it to fall away from the line by a small amount say 20mm or so. Failure to do this means all the tension can be taken by the leech of the sail and there is no better way to stretch the sail material and seams so ruining a jib! Adjustment of the pivot position will change the tension needed in the topping lift. More tension means the leech will not twist off till a higher wind strength. Tender yachts with relatively large sails can benefit by having a smaller tension in the topping lift (e.g. IOM) so allowing the jib boom to lift and the jib twist off more readily than in a yacht with more self righting such as a Marblehead or Ten Rater. Do not be tempted to bring the pivot point back much beyond the 25% mark as the sail as an airfoil can become unstable and flutter from side to side. In addition, more of the sail is moved to windward in front of the pivot point and the slot between the jib and mainsail is closed a little - all negative influences on performance. Sheeting Angles The angle between the boom and the centre line of the yacht when the sails are close hauled and the yacht is sailing at its most efficient speed to windward is called the sheeting angle. In general, the main boom is set to a relatively small angle about 5°. This means a 300 mm boom will be set about 25mm from the centreline. The jib boom must be set to a greater angle of about 10° which means a 300 mm boom will be set about 50 mm from the centreline. These values will depend on many factors including the fullness of the sail, the twist in the sail and the wind velocity but the values given should serve as a starting point Location of sheet attachment points on the booms is equally important. When the sail control on your transmitter is moved from its close hauled position to its fully out position the main sheet will move sufficient distance to allow the main boom to move to a position at right angles to the centreline of the yacht moving through an arc of 85°. As the jib sheet will move the exact same distance as the main sheet then if the jib boom is to move to a position at right angles it will move through an arc of only 80°. This can only occur if the attachment point for the jib sheet on the jib boom is slightly further from the pivot point then the attachment point for the main sheet from its pivot point. Typical values for the main is 220mm behind the gooseneck pivot and for the jib is 240 mm behind its pivot point. To maintain this differential movement for the two booms, the pull from the sheet fairlead should be as horizontal as possible. This means the mainsheet post should be as close as possible to the main boom and similarly for the jib fairlead. This is really critical for the main as the amount of twist in the sail is controlled by tension in the boom vang so as the boom moves out, the twist stays much the same. Any vertical component to the mainsheet at close hauled will effectively increase the downward pull on the boom and hence to maintain twist less vang pressure is needed. As the boom moves out as in a reach, this vertical component in the main sheet rapidly reduces so the twist will increase significantly as the vang pressure is now too small and drive will decrease which is exactly what you don't want in a reach! Trying to maximise the twist for a reach when the sail is half out will mean there will be too much down force on the boom at close hauled position, reducing the twist and causing the top half of the sail to stall as the leech is pulled too tight. This situation is not quite so critical for the jib as the jib uphaul maintains the twist in the sail despite increases down tension on the jib sheet and the larger sheeting angle means the vertical component is less. Nevertheless it is still wise to keep the jib boom as close as possible to the jib sheet fairlead and maintain as horizontal a pull as possible.

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How Do You Sail An RC Sailboat? (11 Essential Steps!)

To make the most of your time on the water, it’s crucial to understand the art of navigation. We’ll focus on the essential aspects of navigating an RC sailboat, from selecting the right location to mastering advanced maneuvers.

Push the rudder joystick left and right to steer the RC sailboat. Open and close the sails to tighten and loosen the sails, this will increase or decrease your speed. If there are strong winds, tighten the sails so that they don’t flop around. Partially close the sails in low wind conditions.

It’s all about working with the wind and keeping an eye on the sails to make sure that they are catching the wind from the correct direction. Steering the boat required you to position the rudder and sails correctly.

So let’s go into every aspect of sailing an RC sailboat along with a whole lot of advice.

Steps For Sailing An RC Sailboat

Check the rigging for any damage or tangled lines. Confirm everything is in good condition and properly rigged, like sails, lines, and other rigging hardware.
Check that your boat’s weight distribution is correct for optimal performance. The boat should be level in the water with the hull must be parallel with the surface. An off-balance boat can cause slower speeds and unwanted turning. (Learn more about how fast RC boats go ).
Adjust the sails according to the wind conditions. Beginners should start with smaller sails in light winds while more experienced people make use of larger sails as their skills improve.
Make sure the keel and rudder are attached and properly aligned. The keel provides stability and the rudder controls the boat’s direction.
Switch your transmitter on and check that it’s set to the correct frequency or channel for your boat. If you’re keen on upgrading your sailboat’s engine for a smoother ride, you might be interested in exploring some of the best RC gas boat engines out there.
Power up your RC sailboat by connecting the battery pack. (Some boats have power switches, while others may turn on automatically when connected).
Before launching the boat, hold it in the air and test the controls of your transmitter to ensure everything is working correctly. Normally, you’ll have controls for the rudder on the right stick and sails on the left. Some high-end models even have a throttle connected to a tiny motor for launching and docking the boat.
Gently place your boat in the water and make sure the sails are positioned so that the wind can fill them up. Release the boat and let the sails catch the wind.
Use the rudder control on your transmitter to steer the boat by pushing the rudder stick left and right to steer the boat in either direction. It can take a few seconds for the sailboat to react to your controls so adjust the controller sticks gently.
Push the sail stick up to adjust the sails and catch the wind. Experiment to find the best sail angle for your boat’s performance.
If you have a throttle, use it to get the boat out deeper into the water for the wind to open the sails. Take it slow when you open the sails if you’re still learning. Once you’ve gotten familiar with the controls, you can increase that throttle on launch and during docking.

By the way, have you ever wondered how to size an RC boat motor ? Choosing the right motor size can significantly improve your boat’s performance, especially if you’re looking to get into more competitive sailing.

Sailing an RC boat takes practice. Pay attention to how your boat responds to wind and control inputs. Experiment with different sail and rudder positions to get the most out of your boat.

When you’re finished sailing, bring your boat back to shore while avoiding running into the ground or colliding with obstacles. Disconnect the boat’s battery pack and turn the transmitter off.

Just starting out with RC sailboats? Don’t get overwhelmed! We’ve rounded up the best beginner-friendly RC sailboat models that are easy to operate.

Select The Right Location

Sail on water like lakes or calm ponds to ensure to avoid interruptions while you’re sailing. Avoid busy, crowded locations with heavy boat traffic to avoid bumpy and difficult-to-navigate waters.

Tranquil waters provide a peaceful backdrop for you to focus on refining your sailing skills and enjoying the beauty of RC sailing.

Crowded areas increase the risk of collisions, making it challenging to maneuver your RC sailboat effectively. To maximize your enjoyment and safety, prioritize the selection of the right location. This is the best way to do things while you’re learning. Then later on once you’ve gained enough skill to sail around other boats and obstacles, you can do so with confidence.

Assessing Wind Conditions

The wind is what’s going to move you around on the water so an understanding the its direction and strength will help you plan your sailing route effectively and avoid problems.

Adjusting the angle of your sails and reading wind shifts will help you navigate smoothly.

Note the strength of the wind, whether it’s gentle and steady or strong and gusty so that you make appropriate sail adjustments. This will enable you to sail safely, avoiding collisions with obstacles or other boats.

You can tell that the sails aren’t catching the wind by checking if they’re flopping around like flags. If the wind is blowing strong and the sails aren’t catching it, you need to turn the sails slightly to fill them up with air.

You need to start learning about how the wind interacts with your boat to assist you in charting an efficient sailing route.

Preparing Your RC Sailboat

Carefully assemble your RC sailboat according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure all components are securely in place, and check for any loose or damaged parts before launching.

Proper preparation is the foundation of a successful RC sailboat journey. It ensures that your sailboat is in optimal condition and minimizes the risk of in-water mishaps.

Of course, things don’t always go as planned. If you’re facing issues with your boat not responding, it might be good to know why your RC boat is not working . A quick troubleshoot could save your sailing day.

Sail Adjustments

Correctly adjusting the mainsail is essential for maximizing your sailboat’s performance. It directly impacts how your sailboat responds to the wind and steers through the water.

I’ll go over advanced techniques in a moment, but for now, you should focus on making small adjustments to the sails so that you can get a feel of how they interact with the wind.

Sail adjustments are like the controls of your RC sailboat, allowing you to fine-tune its behavior to your commands.

By the way, if you’re new to this whole RC sailing thing, it’s crucial to know what you need for an RC boat . This guide will ensure you’re not missing out on any key items before you hit the waters.

Safety Precautions

Even though there isn’t much that can go terribly bad with sail boating, you need to be cautious of anything else in the water for an enjoyable RC sailboat adventure.

Besides that, check to verify that your RC sailboat is in perfect working condition. This includes examining all components, ensuring secure connections, and confirming proper functionality.

Make sure that all the openings on your boat are closed up before setting off on the water. If you have an open window at the top, tape it up! Also, make sure any drain plugs are securely pressed into the boat to stop any water from getting in.

Lubricate the bearings, like those at the top of the “gooseneck” and underneath, located at the bottom of the sails.

On large bodies of water, make sure you have certain backup plans in mind, like retrieving your boat if it gets stuck or floats out of range.

Props matter too, you know! When considering performance, you might also want to check out the difference between a 2-blade and a 3-blade prop for RC boats . The type of propeller you choose can influence how efficiently your sailboat glides through the water.

Adjusting the Jib

Make sure to adjust the jib, the smaller sail at the front of your sailboat, to work together with the bigger sail and enhance its performance. It will help you find a balance between stability and fast sailing and help your boat float smoothly through the water.

Basic Maneuvers

Although the movements aren’t as sudden as cars and planes, steering is still paramount to navigating your RC sailboat effectively. Turning the rudder in the water allows you to turn the boat as it cuts through the water. It controls your sailboat’s direction and maintains precision on the water, whether it’s upwind or down.

Learning how to control the rudder skillfully will help you move in any direction, as long as you have the same amount of skill with the sails. Be patient and allow some time to pass when you controlling the boat. The sails will react quickly with any wind but the rudder takes a few seconds to impact the direction of the boat.

Whether you’re adjusting your course or responding to wind shifts. There’s not much advice I can give you other than to practice in calm environments until you feel comfortable with it.

Sailing Upwind

Sailing against the wind requires certain sail adjustments and precise steering. It can be challenging because of the wind resistance, but you can overcome this by using certain maneuvers. To sail upwind, use techniques like tacking.

Tacking and Jibing

Tacking and jibing are fundamental maneuvers for efficiently changing your sailboat’s direction. These skills are essential for navigating complex routes and racing competitively.

Use tacking to move into the wind. Tacking is when you turn the front of the boat towards the wind while slightly steering from left to right through the water. In this way, the wind should hit the sails on one side and then the other as you’re steering into the wind.

Jibing works in the opposite direction of tacking and is a technique for moving very quickly with the wind.

Tacking and jibing will help you to navigate intricate paths, especially when competing in races with demanding courses.

In conclusion

The controls of an RC sailboat transmitter aren’t too complicated. As for the sailing, remember to use the wind and the water in harmony. Keep all the components of the boat in mind when navigating through the water.

Start out slow with smaller sails and work your way up. Practice is key for getting to know the behaviors of your sailboat.

This awesome hobby has something for everyone, whether you like to build your RC from scratch and keep modifying till you've got it to just how you want it, to track racing. You might be out with a boat, or perfecting your skills with a plane. Are you taking some cool pics with your drone? I'm sure my site will help you on your journey.

Radio-Controlled Sailboat Kits: The Ultimate Guide

By - Kyle Hilson
Posted on November 14, 2023 November 15, 2023
Posted in RC Boats

Radio-controlled sailboat kits are a popular hobby for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts. These kits allow hobbyists to build their sailboats from scratch and control them remotely using a radio transmitter. The idea of radio-controlled sailboats dates back to the 1930s and has since become a popular hobby worldwide. Radio-controlled sailboat kits come in different shapes and sizes. They contain all the components necessary to build a functional sailboat, including the hull, sails, rigging, motor, and radio transmitter. RC sailboats are available in different types, including racing sailboats, yachts, and schooners. When choosing a kit, hobbyists need to consider the price, difficulty level, design, and additional features such as GPS capabilities. Building and owning a radio-controlled sailboat has many benefits. Firstly, it is an excellent way to learn new skills and gain knowledge about sailing. Secondly, it allows hobbyists to spend time outdoors and experience the joy of sailing. Lastly, it is a social hobby, and sailing with others is an excellent way to meet new people and make new friends. Building and sailing radio-controlled sailboats can present some challenges, especially for beginners. Some of the common challenges include understanding the complex instructions, setting up the radio transmitter, and navigating the boat. However, with practice and patience, these challenges can be overcome. Beginner-friendly kits are available, and YouTube tutorials can help with the setup and sailing of the boat.

Choosing the perfect RC sailboat kit for your needs.

Radio-controlled sailboat kits come in different shapes and sizes. They allow hobbyists to build their sailboats from scratch and control them remotely using a radio transmitter. These kits contain all the components necessary to build a functional sailboat, including the hull, sails, rigging, motor, and radio transmitter. RC sailboats are available in different types, including racing sailboats, yachts, and schooners. When choosing a kit, hobbyists need to consider different factors such as price , difficulty level , design , and additional features such as GPS capabilities . Kits are available for all levels of expertise, from beginners to experts , and there are various brands that specialize in producing high-quality kits. Websites such as Amazon, eBay , and Banggood offer a wide range of radio-controlled sailboat kits that cater to different hobbyist needs.

There are different factors to consider when choosing a radio-controlled sailboat kit. One of the most important is price . Kits can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the complexity and size of the boat. Another important factor is difficulty level , as some kits are more appropriate for advanced hobbyists, while others are suitable for beginners. Hobbyists should also consider the design of the boat and the type of sailing they are interested in, such as racing or leisure sailing. Some kits even offer additional features such as GPS capabilities for location tracking and weather information.

There are different types of sailboats available in the market, including racing sailboats, yachts, catamarans, and schooners. Racing sailboats are specifically designed for high speeds and maneuverability, while yachts are ideal for leisure sailing and relaxation. Catamarans are known for their stability and efficiency, making them popular for longer voyages. Schooners are classic sailboats with two or more masts, making them ideal for those who want a traditional sailing experience.

Radio Controlled Sailboat Kits: Choosing the perfect RC sailboat kit for your needs.

What are the different types of sailboats available in the market?

The different types of sailboats available in the market include dinghies, daysailers, keelboats, cruisers, racing sailboats, and catamarans.

Benefits, Skills and Social Aspects of Radio-Controlled Sailboat Kits

Building and owning a radio-controlled sailboat has many benefits. Firstly, it is an excellent way to learn new skills and gain knowledge about sailing. Secondly, it allows hobbyists to spend time outdoors and experience the joy of sailing. Thirdly, it is a social hobby, and sailing with others is an excellent way to meet new people and make new friends. Some interesting facts about RC sailboats are that the World Sailing Model Competition happens every two years and has been held since 1972. The most recent competition was held in 2019 and saw participants from 13 countries.

A table comparing different RC sailboat kits and their features can be found below.

Brand	Price	Type of Sailboat	Difficulty Level

Radio Controlled Sailboat Kits: Benefits, Skills and Social Aspects of Radio-Controlled Sailboat Kits

What are some popular websites to purchase radio-controlled sailboat kits and compare different products?

Some popular websites to purchase radio-controlled sailboat kits and compare different products are Amazon, HobbyKing, Tower Hobbies, and Horizon Hobby.

Overcoming Challenges in RC Sailboat Kits

Building and sailing radio-controlled sailboats can present some challenges, especially for beginners . One of the biggest challenges is understanding the complex instructions. Moreover, setting up the radio transmitter can also be daunting as it requires technical skills. Additionally, navigating the boat can be difficult as the wind and water conditions can affect its movement. However, with practice and patience, these challenges can be overcome.

What are some resources for beginners to learn about building and sailing radio-controlled sailboats?

Some resources for beginners to learn about building and sailing radio-controlled sailboats are online forums such as RC Groups, sailboat kit manufacturers like Dumas Products, and instructional videos on YouTube.

Radio-controlled sailboat kits are a fantastic way to combine the creativity of building with the thrill of remote control. They allow hobbyists to learn new skills while enjoying the fresh air and gentle breeze. With radio-controlled sailboat kits, enthusiasts can create their own sailboats from scratch with the freedom to customize the design and features according to their preference. Furthermore, sailing with others adds to the social aspect of the hobby and can be a great way to make new friends.

In conclusion, radio-controlled sailboat kits offer a unique and exciting hobby option for individuals of all ages. While there are inherent challenges in building and sailing the boats, the potential rewards are well worth the effort. The creativity and knowledge gained from creating and operating these boats are invaluable. With various resources, including online forums, tutorials, and classes, beginners can overcome the challenges and become skilled radio-controlled sailboat enthusiasts. If you are interested in this hobby, start by researching the different types of radio-controlled sailboat kits available and find one that suits your skill level and budget. Once you have your kit, get building and enjoy the serene and thrilling experience of radio-controlled sailboat sailing.

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To get started on your Racing Sparrow model RC yacht project, purchase our eBook and download the PDF now.

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Racing Sparrow model yacht rc sailboat plans - RG65 schematic plans

What our customers say about Racing Sparrow

Being a complete novice, I purchased your book a couple of years ago and built two racing sparrows. Building on this experience I then went on to build, from scratch, an IOM (Triple Crown design). I've since joined a local club and sail virtually every weekend. I would just like to thank you for your endeavours which have allowed me to enter a world I never thought was in my reach.

John Sterland, Australia

Coming upon your book, "Build your own Radio Controlled Yacht" in the Napier Public Library, I am hugely impressed. The combination of your superb photos and illustrations with your easy writing style make it a standout publication and I hope it does well for you.

Richard Spence, New Zealand

Thanks for an excellent design in your RG65. I trialled her again today in a solid 20 knots gusting higher. Even so in a steep chop and fingers off the rudder she drove upwind remarkably well, balanced perfectly. Very impressed that a model boat can handle that with a large rig. I found the book excellent. Ive built several big boats, plus a few skiffs and without that resource building such a good boat would have been impossible.

Mike Bennett

Boats built by the Racing Sparrow community

We continue to be amazed at the beautiful model RC boats created by Racing Sparrow enthusiasts . Send your images to info@racingsparrow.co.nz.

Take a look at the full boat gallery page. So many fine model yachts!

Jerome Declerck - 750

Dec 2, 2020

Andy Saunders + Son , New Zealand

Sep 9, 2021

'Sparrow' based RG 65

May 2, 2020

Racing Sparrow 750 - Terry Plumridge , Vienna, Austria

Jan 26, 2018

Miss Sunshine, RS750 by Terry Plumridge from Vienna Austria. Built for his wife Gertraud. Terry writes " Firstly thanks for writing your book, it introduced me to building from plans, and plank on frame construction, both of which I enjoyed tremendously."

More about Racing Sparrow

When I was nine years old my father, Ross Heveldt taught me to sail down at Bucklands Beach in Auckland. My wee optimist dinghy was called 'The Racing Sparrow', the nickname my uncle Bruce Curry gave to me when I was a small boy. Apparently I had an abundance of energy.

I studied at Whanganui School of Design and have been a designer / developer since 1998. I live in New Zealand.

Best wishes and happy sailing, Bryn Heveldt.

To contact me please email: info@racingsparrow.co.nz

Bryn when he was nine years old sailing the original Racing Sparrow Optimist down at Eastern Beach, Auckland

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Welcome to the SAILSetc website

Trading since 1978 SAILSetc is one of the largest suppliers of equipment for radio control sailing. Our range of products is focussed on the four international classes (One Metre, Marblehead, Ten Rater, A Class) as well as the growing number of smaller classes. However, the equipment we supply is also suitable for, or adaptable to, many of the other classes of radio yachts used throughout the world. Our specialist knowledge of the sport helps us to design, develop, make and supply goods which are ideally suited to their purpose.

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How to Sail: Mastering the Basics of RC Sailboat Navigation

By Ryan in RC Boat

March 3, 2023

Introduction

RC sail boating is a fun and challenging hobby that requires skill, patience, and knowledge. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a beginner, mastering the basics of RC sailboat navigation can help you enjoy your hobby to the fullest and avoid common pitfalls that can lead to frustration and disappointment. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to RC sailboat navigation, covering everything from choosing the right location to troubleshooting common problems. By the end of this article, you’ll have a solid understanding of the key concepts and techniques that are essential for smooth sailing.

Topics that will be covered in this article include:

Choosing the right location for sailing
Setting up the boat and equipment properly
Understanding the weather conditions and wind direction
Overview of the basic controls (rudder, sails, etc.)
Explanation of how each control affects the boat’s movement
Tips for adjusting the controls to achieve the desired outcome
Tacking and jibing: How to change direction effectively
Upwind sailing: Tips for sailing into the wind
Downwind sailing: Tips for sailing with the wind
Identifying potential obstacles in the water
Techniques for avoiding collisions
How to recover from a collision
Common problems and how to fix them (e.g., capsizing, getting stuck in the weeds, etc.)
Tips for troubleshooting on the water

By the end of this article, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the basics of RC sailboat navigation and enjoying the thrill of sailing with confidence and ease.

Getting started

How to sail – choosing the right location for sailing:.

Choosing the right location is an essential step in RC sailboat navigation. You’ll want to find a body of water that is large enough to sail comfortably, but not so large that you risk losing your boat. Additionally, you’ll want to choose a location that is relatively calm and free from obstacles, such as rocks or debris, that could damage your boat. Popular locations for sailing RC sailboats include ponds, lakes, and bays. Check in with your local club for other recommendations.

Setting up the boat and equipment properly:

Once you’ve chosen your location, it’s time to set up your boat and equipment. Make sure that your boat is in good working condition, and that all the necessary parts, such as the rudder, sails, and batteries, are installed properly. Check your boat’s manual or consult with an expert if you’re not sure how to set up your boat correctly.

Understanding the weather conditions and wind direction:

Before setting sail, it’s important to understand the weather conditions and wind direction. Wind direction and strength will greatly affect the way your boat moves and handles, so it’s important to know what to expect before you head out on the water. Be sure to check the weather forecast and keep an eye on the wind while you’re sailing. This will help you adjust your sails and control your boat more effectively. Additionally, it’s important to avoid sailing in extreme weather conditions, such as high winds or heavy rain, as these conditions can be dangerous and damage your boat.

Understanding the controls

How to sail – overview of the basic controls:.

The basic controls of an RC sailboat include the rudder, sails, and rarely the keel or ballast. The rudder ( typically right stick in North America ) is used to steer the boat left or right, while the sails ( Typically left stick in North America ) control the boat’s speed and direction. The keel or ballast is used to stabilize the boat and prevent capsizing.

Explanation of how each control affects the boat’s movement:

The rudder controls the boat’s direction by redirecting the flow of water around the boat. When the rudder is turned to the right, the water is redirected to the right causing the boat to turn right. When the rudder is turned to the left, the opposite occurs.

The sails control the boat’s speed and direction by harnessing the power of the wind. When the sails are angled towards the wind, they catch the wind and propel the boat forward. When the sails are angled away from the wind, they allow the wind to pass through them, slowing the boat down.

Tips for adjusting the controls to achieve the desired outcome:

Adjusting the controls requires a delicate balance of steering, sail positioning, and wind direction. To sail in a straight line, you’ll need to position the sails perpendicular to the wind and adjust the rudder to steer the boat. For sailing upwind, you’ll need to position the sails at an angle to the wind and steer the boat into the wind. To sail downwind, you’ll need to position the sails at an angle away from the wind and steer the boat away from the wind. Experiment with adjusting the controls to achieve the desired outcome, and practice regularly to improve your skills.

Sailing techniques

How to sail – tacking and jibing: how to change direction effectively:.

Tacking and jibing are two basic techniques for changing direction while sailing. It is a technique used to change direction while sailing upwind, and involves turning the boat through the wind so that the sails switch from one side to the other. Jibing is used to change direction while sailing downwind, and involves turning the boat away from the wind so that the wind catches the sails on the other side. Both techniques require careful attention to the wind direction and sail positioning, as well as precise timing and steering.

Upwind Sailing: Tips for sailing into the wind:

Sailing upwind can be challenging, as the boat needs to sail at an angle to the wind in order to make forward progress. To sail upwind effectively, position the sails at an angle to the wind that provides the most power, while also steering the boat into the wind at a slight angle. Use tacking techniques to change direction as needed, and keep a close eye on the wind direction and sail positioning to ensure maximum efficiency.

Downwind Sailing: Tips for sailing with the wind:

Sailing downwind can be exhilarating, as the boat can pick up a decent speed with the wind at its back. To sail downwind effectively, position the sails at an angle away from the wind that provides the most power, while also steering the boat away from the wind at a slight angle. Use jibing techniques to change direction as needed, and be sure to keep a close eye on the wind direction and sail positioning to maintain control and avoid capsizing.

Avoiding obstacles

Identifying potential obstacles in the water:.

One of the key challenges of sailing an RC sailboat is navigating around potential obstacles in the water. These can include rocks, buoys, other boats, and even underwater hazards like weeds or sandbars. Before setting sail, take a careful look at the area where you’ll be sailing to identify any potential obstacles that may be present. Use your boat’s onboard camera, if available, to get a better view of the area.

Techniques for avoiding collisions:

To avoid collisions with other boats or obstacles, there are several techniques you can use while sailing. One is to keep a close eye on the water ahead of you, looking for any signs of obstacles or other boats. Another is to maintain a safe distance from other boats, and to avoid sailing in congested areas where there may be a high risk of collision. You can also use your boat’s rudder and sails to change course quickly if needed, and to adjust your speed to avoid potential hazards.

How to recover from a collision:

Despite your best efforts, collisions may still occur while sailing an RC sailboat. If your boat collides with an obstacle or another boat, the first priority is to ensure that everyone on board is safe and uninjured. Haha, Ok, just checking if you are still with me. First assess the situation to determine if you should continue sailing to get away from the obstacle. Or your second option, which is to reduce power to zero by letting the sail out to face in to the wind. Once the obstacle clears, bring the boat in or rescue it with a full size boat.

When the boat is back on shore, check for damage, and make any necessary repairs before continuing to sail. Check over the ballast/keel, rudder and the entire hull.

Troubleshooting

Common problems and how to fix them:.

While sailing an RC sailboat, several common problems can occur, including capsizing, getting stuck in weeds or other debris, and experiencing electrical or mechanical failures. To fix these problems, you’ll need to have some basic tools and spare parts on hand, as well as a good understanding of how your boat’s components work.

If your boat capsizes, the first step is to rescue it with a full size boat. Once rescued, you will want to get all the water out of the hull out as quickly as possible. Check for water in the radio area of the boat. If any water has contacted the receiver or servos, use a heat gun with careful to dry it out.

Getting stuck in weeds or other debris:

If your boat gets stuck in weeds or other debris, try using the rudder and sails to maneuver it free. If that doesn’t work, you may need to paddle your full size boat out there and free it by hand. Careful not to bend rudders or break the keel in this process. Yep, I’ve seen this done before.

Electrical or mechanical failures:

If you experience electrical or mechanical failures while sailing, you’ll need to diagnose the problem and make any necessary repairs. Common issues include dead batteries, broken wires, and malfunctioning servos. Make sure to bring spare batteries, wires, and other components with you on the water in case of a failure. Or you could just head home and return if you live close by. You get the point.

Final Tips and Conclusion

RC sail boating can be a fun and rewarding hobby for those who enjoy being out on the water. And for those who love to tinker on an RC vehicle that gets excellent gas mileage. By mastering the basics of sailing, you can enjoy smooth and safe sailing and avoid common pitfalls.

Recap of the main points covered in the article:

Choosing the right location for sailing is important to ensure safety and optimal conditions for sailing.
Setting up the boat and equipment properly is critical to ensure that everything is working correctly and safely.
Understanding weather conditions and wind direction is essential for effective sailing.
Knowing the basic controls of the boat, including the rudder and sails, and how they affect the boat’s movement is crucial.
Techniques such as tacking and jibing, upwind sailing, and downwind sailing are important to master for effective navigation.
Avoiding obstacles and knowing how to recover from collisions are important for safety on the water.
Troubleshooting common problems such as capsizing, getting stuck in weeds, or experiencing electrical or mechanical failures can be accomplished with some basic knowledge and tools.

Final tips for mastering the basics of RC sail boating:

Practice and patience are essential for learning to sail effectively.
Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid hazards while sailing. Even some of the most moderate wind could be a hazard to your boat. Know the maximum wind speeds that are best suited to your hull or setup.
Bring spare parts, tools, batteries or a charger with you on the water.
Joining a local RC sailing club or community can provide valuable resources and support for learning and improving your skills.

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