The RS800 has many elements derived from the long-established International 14 class. This is not surprising, as Phil Morrison, who designed the RS series, is the leading designer of the International 14 class. However, there is no denying that development of the International 14 class, a standard-limited class (a class developed for the purpose of pursuing speed with wide tolerances in class rules), has tended to escalate too much. The pursuit of speed has led to the use of carbon fiber for the hull, mast, and boom, which has driven up the price of the hull.

The RS800 can be described as a "monstrous machine that's even more accessible," designed to curb the soaring prices of International 14 class boats and promote their popularity worldwide. The RS800's reputation can be predicted to some extent by comparing the number of boats competing in the British Championships in the UK. According to the British sailing magazine Yacht & Yachting, the number of participating boats in the International 14 class peaked in 2000 and has been declining since (45 boats entered in 2004), but the RS800 sees an average of 60 boats participating (70 boats entered in 2004). These data also show that the popularity of the RS800 in the UK has been remarkable.

Sailing the RS800 is more powerful than you'd imagine. The huge sails are supported by a double trapeze, and the skiff's slender, low-resistance hull shape generates explosive speeds. Another appealing feature is that even beginners can experience the thrill of high speeds, provided they're sailing with a crew. An exciting world of high speeds awaits, and it's like a dopamine rush.