RPAYC has welcomed two new RS Feva XL dinghies to the Club, marking an exciting step towards modernising its fleet of club-owned training boats and creating more opportunities for the next generation of sailors.

The RS Feva is one of the world’s most successful junior and youth double-handed sailing dinghies, with more than 7,000 boats sold worldwide. Designed for two sailors, the Feva offers a great pathway for young sailors progressing from the Optimist into more advanced classes, including the 420 and 29er. 

The purchase was made possible by Australian Sailing’s Sail Our Way initiative, which provided RPAYC with a significant discount on the boats as part of the government and Australian Sailing initiative to encourage females in sport.

The new arrivals are the first step in a programme to progressively modernise RPAYC’s training dinghy fleet, with the intention of replacing the ageing Pacer fleet over time. Investing in newer boats will help support the Club’s sailing programmes and provide members with more opportunities to develop their skills on the water.

Jervis Tilly commented:  “The RS Feva fills an important gap in RPAYC’s framework of supported Centreboard classes. It is the key double-handed linkage missing for many years to help transition and retain junior sailors moving into the youth space.  Not only do I see it being used by sailors on an exit path from our Optimist fleets, but also for our successful Family Division and for many other uses.”  

“It is fantastic to have the new Fevas at RPAYC, and the Centreboard committee look forward to seeing them out on Pittwater and helping our sailors take the next step in their sailing journey.”