Week-Ender (S&S) Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the S&S Week-Ender can be traced to the late 1930s, with production commencing in 1938 and concluding in 1940. This period saw the collaboration between Donald Abbott, the visionary behind the Week-Ender class, and Sparkman & Stephens, who designated the design as S&S Design #208. The choice of George Lawley & Son as the builder further underscored the project's commitment to excellence. During the 1930s, George Lawley & Son had established an formidable reputation for "perfection in every detail" and "superior construction" in yacht building, often collaborating with independent designers to bring high-quality vessels to life. The company's manufacturing ethos was deeply rooted in meticulous attention to craftsmanship, whether working with wood, steel, or advanced metal alloys.

An interesting aspect of the Week-Ender's design was the provision for an alternate "light air rig" in the original plans, which included a masthead rig and a bowsprit, suggesting a keen awareness of varying sailing conditions and performance optimization from the outset.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 35 feet and a waterline length of 27 feet, the S&S Week-Ender was designed for a comfortable and stable ride. Her displacement of 16,240 pounds, combined with a 6,750-pound lead ballast, results in a substantial ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.415. This high ratio indicates a stiff and stable boat, well-equipped to stand up to a good breeze and offer a steady motion in a seaway.

The sail area to displacement ratio, calculated at approximately 14.9, suggests a balanced performance profile. While not designed as an extreme light-air performer, this ratio indicates she will move respectably in moderate winds without being overwhelmingly overpowered in heavier conditions. Furthermore, her displacement to length ratio, around 368.3, firmly places her in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, emphasizing comfort and seakindliness over outright speed. This robust construction and moderate sail plan would likely contribute to her reputation for predictable handling and a secure feel on the water.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior layouts and specifications are not extensively documented in readily available public records for the S&S Week-Ender, the very name "Week-Ender" implies a design philosophy centered around comfortable, albeit possibly compact, cruising accommodations suitable for short trips. Boats of this era and type typically featured a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that could convert into berths, a small galley, and an enclosed head. Given George Lawley & Son's reputation for quality construction and meticulous detail, the interior finish would likely have been executed with high-quality wood joinery and robust materials, offering a classic and enduring aesthetic.