RC Sail Boat – We Pick 5 of the BEST!

So you’re interested in RC sail boats?

A lot of people wonder how they really compare to FPV racing drones, an RC car, or other kinds of remote controlled vehicle.

While you might be excited by the capabilities of drones like the DJI Mavic Pro, an RC sail boat can provide unbelievable experiences at a fraction of the expense.

RC model sailboats can be fun for every age.

There are a ton of boats to choose from on the market.

They range from pre-built models to models you design and create yourself.

You’ll need to consider a number of factors when making your purchasing decision, including what level of experience you have, where you plan to sail, how competitive you intend to be, as well as of course, your budget.

No matter what choice you make, you can be sure you’ve found an awesome way to get outside and spend time with your friends.

How to Choose an RC Sail Boat

Understanding Different Types

There are a number of different kinds of sailboat.

In many cases, model sailboats will have designs just as sophisticated as your average full-sized yacht.

And a lot of these boats have designs made specifically for racing too.

These boats are called “model yachts” because they’re more sophisticated than toy sailboats you can find at an average toy store.

You can absolutely expect a model yacht to be more complex than a toy sail boat.

These boats have better quality construction, a more rugged design, and tend to be more expensive.

They also make use of parts found at hobby shops, allowing you to make repairs if anything breaks down.

Meanwhile, toy sailboats typically are very difficult, if not impossible, to reliably repair once they start to break.

The Real Cost

Any hobby sport comes with its fair share of expenses, and the same is true when it comes to RC sail boats.

Model yachts are made by a handful of companies, some of which are only operated by one person.

However you might be pleased to know that long-term model yachting, though, tends to be much less expensive than fishing or golf.

For a real top of the line “model yacht,” you might need to invest a hefty amount.

However, there are still a number of options out there that can be found for much less.

Size Of Your Boat

You’ll need to decide what size of boat you’re looking for.

RC model boats come in a huge number of different sizes. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• You have to be able to see the boat well enough to understand wind changes to the sails
• Larger models will be more difficult to transport than small models
• Small models provide greater portability but may be hard to control in strong wind conditions

Get Familiar With Radio Control

When you’re using a radio control system, you should know what to expect.

For the most part, you can expect your system to come with two channels.

Each radio receiver and transmitter operates on a unique frequency to allow multiple units to be controlled at one time.

The controller will operate with channels.

The number of channels will determine the number of functions that can be directly controlled by the set.

With a two-channel system, you can control steering with one channel, while the second operates your sail control.

Just like with any RC vehicle, you’ll need to know how to best manipulate your controls to get the most out of your RC sailboat.

The controls will be responsible for adjusting both the sails and steering.

You should be able to sail your model like it was an actual yacht.

Watching Your Yacht

Remember to be aware at all times of your visibility to your boat.

To sail effectively you really do need to be in tune with where your yacht is and what the prevailing weather conditions are doing to your yacht.

You need to have full visibility to set the course and trim, as well as to avoid potential collisions.

And as well as your visibility do not forget that the radio transmitter and receiver will have a limited range as well, which you always need to be very careful of.

Understanding Different Sailboat Classes

If you are really serios about Rc yacht racing then before you make a purchase you should also consider the classes you are hoping to race in.

For those of you new to the sport there are different classes of RC sailboat that are popular amongst entusiasts, and each has different rules.

The oldest classes are referred to as “formula” classes.

Some ground rules establish the norm while still allowing for model variation.

The largest racing model fleet is called the International Marblehead Class and includes a mono-hull 50 inches in length.

The Star45 Class is another popular racing class that is slightly smaller than the Marbelhead.

Understand Fitting Requirements

You should carefully examine your intended model’s fitting requirements before you make a purchase.

By ‘fitting requirements’ we just mean the various parts and accessories that you need to make your yacht function effectively.

Fitting might become expensive if you have a particularly complicated rig.

For example, masts are made of a number of different materials.

Some are created from slotted aluminum, while others are created from carbon fiber shafts or simple wood spars.

Aluminum masts are great for assembly.

However, if you intend to sail on salt water, you’ll need to make sure you get anodized aluminum.

Your Sails

If you’re interested in serious racing, you’ll need professionally-created sails.

Sail winches are also a necessary component if you have sheeting sails.

There are two popular configurations for a winch.

Drum configurations wind the sheet around a drum to trim the sail.

Swing-arm configurations attach the sail sheets to an arm.

Experience Behind The Wheel

For rc aircraft enthusiasts, you might be interested to know that there’s a big difference between traditional RC aircraft and different RC boats like rc yachts.

Beginners will have a hard time damaging an RC boat, which isn’t always the case for aircraft.

And although the differing levels of control for an rc aircraft and an rc yacht are sometimes broadly compared given the need to control flaps on planes and sail positions on yachts, the reality is that the control experience on an rc yacht also tends to be very different from aircraft.

Without giving too much away, it definitely helps to spend some time watching a more experienced person control a craft before you try your own yacht on the water for the first time.

This is particularly true when it comes to reading the wind and water conditions and the way that they will affect your yacht.

Launching Requirements

When you pick a model, you should keep in mind where you intend to launch the model.

The model keel needs to be submerged fully.

An average Marblehead boat will need somewhere from 15 to 18 inches.

This means that launching and recovery might require you to wade.

If your remote control boat becomes disabled, you might need to launch another small boat to recover it.

You should also be aware of the difference in sails between a model boat and full-sized yacht.

Sails tend to be left attached, whereas on large boats, they become stowed or furled.

You need to make sure you have enough space to store your boat.

Boat Care

You should be careful to take good care of your RC sail boat.

Quality models might be an investment lasting for many years.

In some cases, models are even passed down over several generations.

Think about where you’re storing the model when not using it.

How are you going to transport it? What extras will you need to buy to make sure you’re taking the best of your boat possible?

So now that you know all the key ins and outs of owning your own RC sailboat, lets look at what we currently rate as the Top 5 RC Sailboats for Sale.

1. POCO DIVO Sailing Boat

When it comes to RC sailboats for sale, the Poco Divo RC Sailboat easily makes the list for best RC sail boat.

Its 650 millimeter construction allows for portability.

This RC sail boat is a good RC sail boat for both entry and intermediate-level enthusiast.

It is also designed and constructed to comply with the requirements of the RG65 rc yacht class so you’re ready to sign up for racing at your local club!

However just be aware that there is a little bit of assembly required for this RC yacht.

This yacht sailboat has a well-designed hull that includes blow-molded plastic for durability, sleek looks, and added strength.

As large RC sailboats go, this is a relatively small model.

Users will have an easy time with the transportation and using it in small bodies of water.

The radio controlled and wind powered sails stand up to strong winds.

These RC sailboats use 2.4Ghz spectrum technology to provide a better anti-interference ability, low power consumption, and a faster reaction speed. More than 20 of these RC model sailboats can run at one time.

The receiver and transmitter each take 4 AA batteries.

Pros:

• Great size for portability
• Optimized for entry and intermediate level enthusiasts
• 2.4Ghz technology lets 20 boats run at a time
• Designed for racing competitions
• Durable and smooth ABS molding
• Waterproof design protects electric equipment
• Wind power radio controlled sails
• Includes everything except AA batteries for receiver and transmitter

Cons:

• Requires some assembly
• Doesn’t include the batteries
• Not the largest RC sailboat on the market

“Great RC Sail Boat with Some Assembly Required”

OOR: 4

2. DragonFlite 95 950mm / DF95 Class RC Sailboat Plug N Play (PNP)

This DragonFlite RC Sailboat is a great RC sailboat for sale.

As RC sailboats for sale go, the DragonFlite makes the list for the best radio controlled racing yacht for sailboat racing.

It’s the most expensive yacht RC on our list, with a construction on par with an RC laser sailboat.

Unfortunately, unlike most packages for sale you can get for the RC sailboat laser, this doesn’t come with a transmitter or receiver.

Every part of these RC boats was crafted to qualify in the DragonFlite 95 class, which is another popular RC yacht racing class.

The boat comes ready to sail, although you do of course need to buy your radio system separately.

There are also a number of components that you can’t find in other RC yachts.

The advanced design utilizes a keel bulb and carbon fiber keel fin.

The one-piece carbon mast is shroudless, and the sails are made of mylar.

When you look for remote control sailboats for sale, this is one of the highest end models you’ll find.

The design is meant to be conveniently sized both on the water and off it.

The long, narrow hull allows it to perform well in strong winds.

It can also perform in shifting pond conditions thanks to the low weight.

The careful sail planning ensures you have perfect balance and handling.

However, if you do get really serious about your racing you’ll also be pleased to know that there are a lot of additional accessories you can buy for this boat.

These allow you to customise it even better for different racing conditions or even just your own preferred style of racing.

Pros:

• Lightweight design allows for strong wind performance even in changing water conditions
• Narrow hull allows for unbelievable speeds
• Well-designed sails make the craft perfectly balance and handle easily
• Carbon fiber keel fin can’t be found in many other RC sail boats
• Mylar sails
• One piece carbon mast

Cons:

• Most expensive RC model boat on the list
• Does not include the transmitter or receiver
• Not the most portable RC sailboat on the list

“Best RC Sailboat for Serious Racers”

OOR: 4

3. Rage RC Automobile B1300 Eclipse 1M Ready to Run Sailboat

This RC sailboat is one of the best RC sailboats for sale.

The high quality construction is what helps it make the list for best RC sailboat for sale.

It’s also one of the large RC sailboats that comes ready to run.

The Eclipse 1M comes with control systems that make it a great racing or even just free sailing yacht.

The large one-meter hull has been precision molded from high-durability ABS plastic.

The nylon sails have been reinforced and pre-printed with bright and attractive graphics.

Most of the time-consuming and difficult rigging work has been done for you, so it’s quick and convenient to complete the final assembly.

The deck hatch has been sealed and is water-resistant.

It contains all the necessary internal electrical components, including a “drum style” sail winch servo to provide additional power.

However, probably the boat’s most impressive feature is its unbelievable size.

It’s more than seven feet tall when you measure from the ballast bulb bottom to the top tip of the mast!

As another bonus, the boat also arrives with everything you need to begin sailing, including the radio system.

Unlike many other boats, the Eclipse comes with a Li-ion battery , a USB charger, AA batteries for its transmitter, and a light boat stand to make maintenance and display easier.

How cool is that!

In addition, the design can be quickly dismantled for transportation and storage.

Pros:

• Optimized for racing
• Water-resistant hatch protects the electrical components
• Includes a 2.4GHz radio system
• Nylon sails have been reinforced for maximum durability
• Boat is made from molded and durable plastic
• Big RC sail boat measuring over 7 feet in height
• Includes batteries for both radio and transmitter
• Drum-style winch servo provides added power and smoother performance

Cons:

• Doesn’t perform as well in strong wind conditions as some other models
• Too large to be easily portable
• Doesn’t include mylar sails or fiberglass RC construction

“BIG Ready To Run RC Sail Boat”

OOR: 4

4. Golden Bright Full Function Radio Control Boat Vehicle, Red

This RC sail boat is the most affordable option on our list of RC sailboats for sale.

It’s a great RC sail boat for kids and beginners, containing everything you need from an RC sail boat.

Unfortunately, it’s not well-optimized for racing or performing in strong wind conditions.

However, it will give you a lot of fun in peaceful weather and water.

Each sail is individually controlled, meaning you can get a great deal of performance and manoeuvrability.

There’s also a remote control motor included just in case the wind won’t power the boat, so this is a good option for people in non-windy conditions.

You do have to buy the motor’s batteries separately.

The remote control range is up to 160 square feet.

It’s not the greatest range on the market, and it may not let you race long distances, but it will allow you enjoyment on the average lake or pond shore.

Pros:

• Small enough to be highly portable
• Great sailing option for kids
• Remote control range of 160 feet
• Good boat for beginners
• Construction protects electric motor
• Individually controlled sails allow greater manoeuvrability

Cons:

• Doesn’t include batteries
• Construction may not be as durable as with some other models
• A very small model
• Not optimized for racing

“Most Affordable RC Sailboat for Sale”

OOR: 4.3

5. Helion HLNB0100 Aura 650 RTR RC Sailboat

The Helion Aura RC Sailboat makes the list for the best RC sailboat for sale thanks to its quality sails and durable hull.

It’s good for both experienced sailors and beginners.

The hull is made out of durable ABS plastic to provide added strength, and the pre-applied trim comes on both the sail and hull to make the boat stand out.

The boat comes pre-assembled, and part of the rigging has already been done for you, so it’s easy to get onto the water.

It’s also an ideal size to sail on almost any body of water.

The small design makes it easy to transport in your trunk or backseat of a car.

Since it’s a ready to race boat, everything you might need is also included inside the box.

It comes with a 2.4Ghz radio system, a drum-style servo, and rip-stop nylon sails.

You’re even given the 8 AA batteries required for the craft.

It won’t be long before you’re taking this boat out on your local lake or pond!

Pros:

• Includes all batteries needed for operation
• Rip-stop nylon sails are highly durable
• Drum-winch servo performs better than many other servos
• Made from durable ABS plastic
• Boat is pre-assembled and partially pre-rigged
• Small size makes it easy to transport

Cons:

• Sails aren’t designed for maximum racing
• Not the largest boat on the list
• May not perform well in strong wind conditions

“RC Sailboat for Sale with Quality Sails and Durable Hull”

OOR: 3.5

Final Thoughts on the RC Sail Boat

Anyone can have a great time with an RC sail boat, no matter what level of expertise you have.

The best boat for you will of course vary though depending on your needs.

Keep in mind the amount of assembly you want to do, the included components, and what kind of conditions you want to sail the boat in.

You’ll be looking for different things if you want leisure sailing versus racing.

I hope this article has given you all you need to know, as well as some great yachts to consider, when you’re ready to make your own RC sail boat selection!