Radio Control Sailboats

R/C Sailboats

R/C sailboats, like all R/C models, come in varying degrees of completeness. You may want to enjoy the hobby by building a radio control model from a kit, or you may just want to get sailing as soon as possible with an ARS (Almost Ready To Sail) or a RTS (Ready To Sail) boat. An ARS model will be 90% finished with a few details left for you to add over the course of a couple of evenings and you will need to buy separately and install the radio control gear. An RTS boat is usually only a case of connecting and rigging the mast and main sail, and away you go!
The standard ARS or RTS model will be 2-channel, the transmitter is the traditional stick type rather than the modern pistol grip style because there is no need for a throttle control with this level of R/C model.
One servo controls rudder movement while a second servo controls both sails together. It’s normal on R/C sailboats for a winch servo to be used for the control of the sails, rather than a standard servo. Winch servos are more powerful and have more movement offering greater control and flexibility. A standard servo is usually fine for the smaller sailboats. Models that are longer than 20 inches will likely require the more powerful winch servo because when the sails are filled with wind they require a much stronger force to pull them round. You may also find that you need to upgrade to a stronger winch servo if you are sailing your model in stronger winds than the recommended wind speed (model manufacturers determine wind speed capability).
R/C Sailboats are a completely different game to Nitro or Electric powered R/C boats. You will not need field equipment items and no one will ever object to you sailing your model in a public place because just as in real life, sailing is quieter than power boating.
We are here to help you enjoy the sport of radio controlled model sailing. Whether you are just starting out, or an old salt, you will find great information at Cast Your Anchor, all designed to help you enjoy this booming sport. Please contact us at www.castyouranchorhobby.com with any questions you may have -- we love to provide answers!