RS Sailing RS 400 1994 boat specs
RS Sailing
RS Sailing RS 400 1994
1994
View full specs →
VS
RS Sailing RS Quest 2015 boat specs
RS Sailing
RS Sailing RS Quest 2015
2015
View full specs →

RS Sailing RS 400 1994 vs RS Sailing RS Quest 2015 — Same Brand, Different Boat

The RS Sailing RS 400 1994 vs RS Sailing RS Quest 2015 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story — intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — RS Sailing RS 400 1994 at 14,1 ft versus RS Sailing RS Quest 2015 at 14,1 ft. At 284 lbs and 309 lbs respectively, both sit in a similar weight class — either should pair comfortably with most mid-size SUVs and half-ton trucks, though always confirm your specific tow rating with the motor added.

Both boats are rated for 4 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.

Both boats sit in a similar displacement bracket — 284 lbs for the RS Sailing RS 400 1994 and 309 lbs for the RS Sailing RS Quest 2015. Comparable displacement means broadly similar seakeeping behaviour and load capacity, though hull form and ballast ratio will still produce noticeably different sailing characteristics.

The RS Sailing RS 400 1994 uses fractional_rig_sloop rigging.

Both the RS Sailing RS 400 1994 and RS Sailing RS Quest 2015 are listed as trailerable, which opens up the freedom to explore different sailing grounds without paying for a permanent berth.

Bottom line: The RS Sailing RS 400 1994 and RS Sailing RS Quest 2015 are closely matched on paper. A sea trial on both in representative conditions is the only reliable way to find which one suits your sailing style, home port, and intended cruising ground.
Measurements / Dimensions
Length overall - Detail14.10 ft
Length overall - Detail14.10 ft
Length - Feet14.1
Length - Feet14.1
Length overall - Meters4.3
Length overall - Meters4.3
Length overall - Inches169
Length overall - Inches169
Beam6.70 ft
Beam6.00 ft
Beam - Meters2.04
Beam - Meters1.83
Beam - Inches80
Beam - Inches72
Draft [max] - Detail3.80 ft
Draft [max] - Detailnot available
Draft [max] - Meters1.16
Draft [max] - Metersnot available
Draft [max] - Inches46
Draft [max] - Inchesnot available
Displacement284.00 lbs
Displacement309.00 lbs
Body / Hull
Rudder1 transom hung rudder
Rudder1 transom hung rudder
Helm1 tiller
Helm1 tiller
Operational Info
TrailerableYes
TrailerableYes
Riggingfractional_rig_sloop
Riggingfractional_rig_sloop
Mast ConfigurationDeck stepped mast
Mast ConfigurationMast foot integrated on deck
Boat typeSail
Boat typeSail

RS Sailing RS 400 1994 vs RS Sailing RS Quest 2015 — Common Questions

Which is the larger boat — the RS Sailing RS 400 1994 or the RS Sailing RS Quest 2015?
The RS Sailing RS Quest 2015 is the longer of the two at 14,1 feet overall. The RS Sailing RS 400 1994 comes in at 14,1 feet, making it roughly 0,0 ft shorter — a meaningful difference in deck room and overall on-water presence.
Which is easier to trailer — the RS Sailing RS 400 1994 or the RS Sailing RS Quest 2015?
For trailering, the RS Sailing RS 400 1994 has the edge at 284 lbs dry weight versus 309 lbs for the RS Sailing RS Quest 2015. Add a motor (typically 300–500 lbs for an outboard in this class), gear, and a partial fuel load and the difference grows. Lighter is friendlier on smaller tow vehicles and on fuel economy while hauling.
How many people can each boat hold?
The RS Sailing RS 400 1994 is Coast Guard rated for 4 passengers, while the RS Sailing RS Quest 2015 is certified for 4. Note that legal capacity and comfortable capacity aren't always the same thing — on a full day out, most experienced boaters aim for about 80% of the rated number to keep things comfortable.
What is the draft of the RS Sailing RS 400 1994?
The RS Sailing RS 400 1994 draws 3,8 ft. Draft determines which harbours, anchorages, and haul-out facilities are accessible — always verify with your local marina before purchase.
Is the RS Sailing RS 400 1994 or the RS Sailing RS Quest 2015 better suited for offshore sailing?
For offshore work, displacement and construction are the primary indicators. The RS Sailing RS Quest 2015 at 309 lbs displacement is the heavier, more load-carrying design — generally better suited to extended passages where seakeeping and provisioning capacity matter most. The RS Sailing RS 400 1994 at 284 lbs will typically be livelier and more responsive in lighter conditions.
Can the RS Sailing RS 400 1994 and RS Sailing RS Quest 2015 be trailered?
Yes — both the RS Sailing RS 400 1994 and RS Sailing RS Quest 2015 are listed as trailerable, which means you can store either at home, launch at different ramps, and avoid marina fees entirely. Confirm rig height against your route's bridge clearances before the first trip.
Which boat is wider, and does it affect trailering?
The RS Sailing RS 400 1994 measures 80" wide, compared to 72" for the RS Sailing RS Quest 2015. The US standard-width towing limit is 8’6" (102") in most states — anything over that may need a wide-load permit. Confirm your specific route requirements with each state's DOT.
Are the RS Sailing RS 400 1994 and RS Sailing RS Quest 2015 from the same manufacturer?
Yes — both the RS Sailing RS 400 1994 and the RS Sailing RS Quest 2015 are built by RS Sailing. That means shared dealer networks, common parts availability, and consistent build quality across the line. The choice between them is essentially a question of how much boat you need, not which brand you trust.