The RS Tera is a lightweight single-handed sailing dinghy designed for young sailors, featuring modern construction, adjustable rigging, and a stable design to facilitate both learning and competitive racing experiences. West Coast Sailing has all the resources you need to rig, find replacement parts, and enjoy sailing your RS Tera.
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RS Tera Class Association (Link)
RS Tera Line Lengths:
| Description | Length | Diameter | Line Type | Quantity | Recommended Line Options |
| Mainsheet | 33 ft | 7mm | Sheet | 1 | 7mm NER Bzzz |
| Downhaul | 10 ft | 4mm | Control Line | 1 | 4mm Robline Sirius 500 |
| Outhaul | 10 ft | 4mm | Control Line | 1 | 4mm Robline Sirius 500 |
RS Tera Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does a Tera compared to an Optimist?
A: The Tera is safer, more durable, more versatile and decades newer than an Opti. While Optis are used by kids at the top of the pyramid for hardcore racing - the Tera is much more appropriate for the rest of sailors. In particular, when capsized, the Tera can be self righted, and drains very rapidly - which inspires confidence. An Optimist generally requires a sailor to be assisted by a coach hovering in a power boat, or the sailors to use a bailer to work to empty their boat of water. Modern plastic boats are more durable, with almost zero maintenance - so the Tera is a durable long term asset to a club fleet or a family. The Tera is also easily accepting of two kids and has a reefable mainsail for any condition that sailors are in. Frankly, we continue to wonder why anyone would buy an Optimist for anything but the most advanced, World level serious regattas.
Q: How does the two sail size thing work?
A: The most common sail is the Dacron ‘Sport’ sail. The larger one is the Mylar Pro Sail. This sail offers a significant increase in sail area, and power delivery. All with the same identical mast pieces.
Q: Is there racing of Teras in North America?
A: Yup. From B.C. To San Diego over to Florida and up to Long Island.
Q: Can an adult sail it?
A: Surprisingly well, actually. Seriously. With the Pro Sail, the boat is quite fun for adults up to about 5’9” or so.
Q: What design changes happened in 2019?
A: After a number of years, a mold that is used to produce the boat needed work - since they had to replace it RS made some upgrades to the deck and transom. It’s no faster than the original boats, but a nice systems upgrade for new owners.
Q: Can you furl the sail???
A: The dacron sport sail is fully furlable - from full size down to barely a handkerchief
Q: How wet is the Tera?
A: Most small sailboats are going to be some level of 'wet'. You're close to the water and waves - which is good fun. Some other plastic boats are pretty wet rides - fine in warm water, but not as good in the colder waters of the West Coast oceans and lakes. So, in general the Tera is a rather dry small boat as far as smaller training boats go.
About the RS Tera
The RS Tera is a popular and versatile single-handed sailing dinghy specifically designed for young sailors, offering an ideal platform for both learning and competitive racing. Characterized by its modern and lightweight construction, the RS Tera is easy to handle, promoting skill development and confidence for novice sailors. The boat's responsive nature, stability, and adjustable rigging make it suitable for a wide range of skill levels, allowing sailors to progress as they gain experience. With its durability, safety features, and emphasis on fostering a love for sailing at a young age, the RS Tera has become a favored choice for sailing clubs and parents looking to introduce their children to the joys of the sport.