RS Sailing has taken on the build license, distribution, marketing and sales of the Aira 22 keelboat from Aira Boats.
The addition of the keelboat to the RS range is said to represent a significant step forward in RS Sailing’s strategy to make sailing more accessible to a wider audience.
“As we continue to grow our presence in the leisure sailing market, the RS Aira 22 embodies our commitment to expanding the sport of sailing beyond competitive racing and into the realm of family-friendly adventure,” explains RS Sailing’s commercial director, Michiel Geerling.
“For the past ten years, RS Sailing has steadily grown their 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 day sailing grew, we recognised a need to add a larger vessel to our line-up.
Michiel Geerling
Michiel added: “As market interest in day sailing grew, we recognised a need to add a larger vessel to our line-up – a flagship keelboat that merges comfort, performance and accessibility. Enter the RS Aira 22.”
The original Aira 22 was developed by Jos Snijders Blok, founder of Aira Boats, in 2018.
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 the RS Sailing team, to bring the Aira 22 into the RS family.
Michiel continued: “We’d been in talks with Jos for several years, and the Aira 22 has always stood out as a smart and innovative boat.
Global audience
“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.”
The daysailer is designed with ergonomics and safety in mind, with a cockpit, higher boom, storage space, and seating options.
The boat also features a foldable table and a retractable built-in electric engine.
The boat also has a wide beam, a flat bottom, a wide stern, a square-top mainsail, and a 28msq gennaker.
“We often describe the Aira as a comfort-focused boat with the sleek lines of a modern sportsboat,” explained Jos.
“Many customers report, after some time sailing, that the boat performs faster than they initially expected.”
