S2 27 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The S2 27's production run, from 1985 to 1987, saw approximately 85 units built. While S2 Yachts, founded by Leon Slikkers in 1974, initially focused on sailboat construction due to a temporary restriction from the powerboat market, their shipbuilding ethos always emphasized meticulous craftsmanship and stringent quality control. This dedication to a high standard of build quality, leveraging extensive experience in fiberglass construction, underpinned all S2 models, including the 27.

Designed by Graham & Schlageter, the S2 27 incorporates influences from the popular MORC (Midget Ocean Racing Club) and S2 7.9 one-design models, suggesting a design philosophy aimed at producing a boat with competitive sailing characteristics alongside its cruising intentions. This blend positioned the S2 27 as an appealing racer-cruiser, despite being marketed primarily as a cruiser. S2 Yachts was known for innovative construction techniques, including early adoption of fabric in manufacturing processes and crafting fiberglass hulls in a climate-controlled environment, ensuring consistent quality.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The S2 27 exhibits sailing characteristics indicative of a responsive and stable vessel. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 18.7, she possesses sufficient sail power to perform well in lighter air conditions, a desirable trait for a boat of her size. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of 0.40 is considered high, contributing significantly to her stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up to a good breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. Owners often note that the S2 27 is a relatively stiff boat that sails exceptionally well to windward and can point very effectively.

Further contributing to her performance profile, the Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 175.75 places the S2 27 in the lighter, more performance-oriented category for cruising sailboats, aligning with its "racer/cruiser" possibilities. The boat features a fin keel, which is known for providing excellent maneuverability, though it may offer slightly less directional stability compared to other keel types. While generally praised for its upwind prowess, some owners note it is "not that fast downwind."

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact overall length of just over 26 feet, the S2 27 was designed with a cruiser-intended interior to maximize comfort and utility. The boat boasts a generous maximum headroom of 6.0 feet, which is impressive for a vessel of this size and significantly enhances interior livability. While specific detailed layouts vary, typical arrangements for sailboats of this era and size generally include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, a small galley area, and a dedicated head compartment. Descriptions often highlight the "front cabin" as a key interior feature.

S2 Yachts' reputation for good build quality extends to the interior finishes and materials. Owners of similar S2 models from the same period sometimes note the use of carpeting for interior hull covering, a common practice of the time that helped with insulation and a finished look. Overall, the interior is typically regarded as functional and well-constructed, offering adequate storage for weekend trips and coastal cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the S2 27 consistently commend the boat for its robust construction and high build quality, echoing S2 Yachts' general reputation in the industry. The vessel's inherent stiffness and ability to perform well to windward are frequently highlighted as significant strengths, making it a satisfying boat to sail for those who appreciate good upwind performance. Many owners find the S2 27 to be a well-balanced and capable boat that handles predictably in various conditions.

In terms of maintenance, some owners describe the S2 27 as being relatively straightforward, noting that routine tasks like bottom cleaning and anti-fouling painting are manageable and require "a few hours of work" annually. While overall praise for the build quality is common, a few minor issues have been occasionally reported, such as an isolated "odor issue" on some boats. As with any vessel of its age, general wear and tear, such as cosmetic spider cracks, might be present, but these are typically not considered systemic problems specific to the S2 27 model.