RC sailboats: what are the competition classes and what does "IMOCA" mean?

In the world ofradio-controlled model boats, not all sailboats are created equal. To ensure fair competition and structure the sport, official classes have been created. Each class has strict technical regulations: maximum length, minimum weight, authorized materials, sail area, etc.

But alongside these codified classes, we are also seeing the emergence of so-called "RC IMOCA" sailboats, which are often misunderstood. This name, well known in ocean racing, refers in model building to a scale replica of the famous 60-foot Vendée Globe boats... but does not correspond to an approved class.

In this article, we take a look at:

• The main classes of competitive RC sailboats (Class M, IOM, RG65, 10R, etc.)
• The role of these classes in regattas and the choice of equipment
• And what the term "IMOCA RC sailboat" really means

Why are there classes of RC model sailboats?

Radio-controlled model boats have a long tradition of regattas and structured competition. To ensure fair competition between participants, federations have defined RC sailboat classes, comparable to the categories in sport car racing or full-size sailing.

The objectives of RC classes are:

• To balance performance by imposing common technical constraints
• Promote design diversity while maintaining fair limits
• To allow model makers to specialize in a format according to their level, budget, or sailing preferences

Each competition class is governed by official rules (often under the auspices of the IRSA – International Radio Sailing Association) and gives rise to national and international championships.

The main classes of RC competition sailboats

In radio-controlled model shipbuilding, several international classes are recognized to structure competitions. Each class is governed by specific technical regulations, aimed at balancing performance while allowing a certain degree of design freedom.

Here is an overview of the most popular classes:

Class M (Marblehead)

• Maximum length: 1290 mm
• Permitted sail area: up to 0.5161 m²
• Special features: great freedom of design, very fast, composite materials
• Level: advanced to expert
• Use: IRSA regattas, sailing performance

👉 One of the fastest classes, with many technical possibilities.

IOM (International One Meter) class

• Maximum length: 1000 mm
• Minimum weight: 4000 g
• Draft: ≤ 420 mm
• Rigging: 3 types allowed, standardized sails
• Materials: non-carbon hull (wood, fiber, ABS, etc.)
• Level: intermediate to advanced
• Use: local, national, and international regattas

👉 Most popular class in the world, perfect for improving your competitive skills.

RG65 class

• Length: 650 mm
• Sail area: 2250 cm²
• Typical weight: ~1 kg
• Level: beginner to intermediate
• Use: recreational sailing, friendly regattas

👉 Small, fun, and economical, ideal for beginners or sailing on small bodies of water.

Class 10R (Ten Rater)

• Maximum length: up to 1450 mm (variable depending on rating)
• Special feature: length/sail area rating system
• Level: expert
• Use: high-level competition

👉 High performance, similar to the M class but with a different design approach.

Micro Magic

• Length: ~535 mm
• Weight: ~1 kg
• Level: beginner to experienced recreational
• Use: recreational, small local regattas

👉 Compact and accessible, perfect for fast sailing without constraints.

Class comparison table

IMOCA RC sailboats: reality or mere inspiration?

If you've come across terms such as "IMOCA RC sailboat, " you should know that this is not an official class like Class M or IOM. Rather, this term refers to a scale replica of the famous 60-foot ocean racing sailboats used in the Vendée Globe, the Route du Rhum, and The Ocean Race.

IMOCA in the real world: an iconic offshore racing class

IMOCA stands for International Monohull Open Class Association. This organization sets the technical rules for 60-foot (18.28 m) monohulls. These sailboats are designed to withstand the worst conditions at sea, whether solo or with a small crew.

• Planing hull designed for speed
• Side foils for lift and stability
• Rearward mast and large sail area
• Cutting-edge onboard technology (autopilot, telemetry, etc.)

RC IMOCA sailboat: an inspired model, not a regatta class

In model shipbuilding, an "RC IMOCA sailboat" refers to a radio-controlled boat:

• Inspired by the design of real IMOCAs
• Built as a semi-scale kit or custom-made
• Not approved by the IRSA (no official regulations)

These models are intended for:

• Recreational sailing or
demonstration
• Collection or exhibition
• Sometimes for technical testing (RC foils, ballasts, etc.)

Typical characteristics of IMOCA RC sailboats

Why are these sailboats so popular?

• Aesthetically spectacular, they reproduce the modern lines of racing sailboats
• They offer a realistic sailing experience
• Some incorporate functional foils or adjustable ballasts

👉 Even though they are not designed for competition, IMOCA RC sailboats attract a loyal community of enthusiasts.

Which class of RC sailboat should you choose based on your profile?

Choosing an RC sailboat depends on several factors: level of experience, interest in competition, budget, and sailing conditions.

Beginners or recreational sailors

Micro Magic or RG65

• Ideal for learning the basics of sailing
• Compact, easy to transport
• Low maintenance, affordable
• Suitable for small bodies of water

Intermediate or recreational racing

IOM class

• Good compromise between performance and affordability
• Ideal for local regattas or clubs
• Active community and plans available

Competition enthusiasts

M Class or 10 Rater

• Designed for extreme performance
• Enables technical innovation
• Requires experience in sailing and adjustments

Model makers & modern sailing enthusiasts

IMOCA RC sailboats

• Realistic-inspired models
• Perfect for recreational sailing or display
• Not intended for official competition