RS Sailing, a leading innovator in the global sailing industry, is proud to announce the addition of the RS Aira 22 to its cruising portfolio, as it takes on the build license, distribution, marketing and sales from Aira Boats. This keelboat represents a significant step forward in RS Sailing’s strategy to make sailing more accessible to a wider audience, blending comfort, innovation, and performance in a unique, all-inclusive package.
As RS Sailing continues to grow its presence in both racing and leisure sailing markets, the RS Aira 22 embodies the company’s commitment to expanding the sport of sailing beyond competitive racing and into the realm of family-friendly adventure. For the past ten years, RS Sailing has steadily grown its offerings for leisure sailors and rental companies with boats like the RS Zest, RS Quest, RS Toura, and RS Venture, addressing the diverse needs of recreational sailors. As market interest in daysailing grew, the company recognised a need to add a larger vessel to its line-up – a flagship keelboat that merges comfort, performance and accessibility. Enter the RS Aira 22.
The RS Aira 22 draws inspiration from the daysailer tradition in the Netherlands, where families frequently enjoy time on the water in boats that are both practical and comfortable. The balance of sport and leisure is sure to appeal to a global market, offering a refreshing alternative to the perception that sailing is an elite, inaccessible sport. And, of course, RS Sailing is adding their own RS stamp on the product.
Aira Boats passes on the mantel to RS Sailing
The original Aira 22 was born in 2018, developed by Jos Snijders Blok, founder of Aira Boats. The boat was designed for recreational sailors and gained popularity with sailing schools and rental centres in the Netherlands. As Jos prepared for retirement, he approached RS Sailing, to bring the Aira 22 into the RS Family and onto the world stage.
RS Marine Group’s Commercial Director, Michiel Geerling, commented: “We’d been in talks with Jos for several years, and the Aira 22 has always stood out as a smart and innovative boat. We’re thrilled to now be able to expand its reach and introduce it to a global audience. The RS Aira 22 is truly the future of accessible and enjoyable sailing. We will ensure that Jos’ legacy lives on while sharing this exceptional product with day sailors worldwide.”
RS Aira 22 Features & Performance
Whether adventuring or racing, the RS Aira 22 allows families and friends to disconnect from the pressures of the everyday and reconnect with nature. The daysailer is designed with ergonomics and safety in mind, offering a spacious cockpit, higher boom, ample storage space, and comfortable seating options, complete with cushions. The boat also features a foldable table and a retractable built-in e-propulsion electric engine, making it the perfect choice for sailors who wish to spend time on the water without the pressure of a rigid itinerary.
But what about the performance? “We often describe the Aira as a comfort-focused boat with the sleek lines of a modern sportsboat,” explains Jos. Its design features contribute to its performance capabilities. Attributes include a wide beam, a flat bottom, a wide stern, and a powerful square-top mainsail, which is a modern feature for open keelboats in this size range. Jos adds: “Many customers report, after some time sailing, that the boat performs faster than they initially expected. They’ve participated in club races, often outpacing other open keelboats and smaller cabin yachts.” Whether for family outings or for rental fleets, the RS Aira 22’s sailing qualities exceed expectations, promising to redefine the day-sailing experience.
Versatility for Recreational Sailors and Hire Centres
“There is a real need to engage more people in sailing, especially families,” explains Michiel. “We want to ensure that sailing remains an enjoyable, accessible activity. The RS Aira 22 is something for the whole family and I can also see it being a big hit with hire centres and sailing schools around the globe. Its versatility means that one day it is a daysailer and the next day it could be a club racer. The hull design ensures effortless planing, while the 28m² gennaker elevates the boat into a powerhouse of fun! It strikes the ideal balance between comfort and performance.”
RS Sailing’s introduction of the RS Aira 22 marks an exciting milestone in the company’s ongoing efforts to make sailing a more inclusive, enjoyable, and sustainable sport for people of all ages and backgrounds. RS Sailing Store will also be supplying parts and spares for both new and existing customers who have purchased from Aira Boats in the past. For more information, or to speak to a sales representative, visit www.rssailing.com.