S2 6.9 Information, Review, Specs

The S2 6.9's production run from 1983 to 1986 saw 174 units built, establishing its place within S2 Yachts' performance-oriented Grand Slam series. The boat shares its fundamental hull design with the S2 6.7, a successful racer-cruiser also conceived by Don Wennersten. The refinement of the 6.9 by Graham & Schlageter, known for their work on other performance designs like the S2 7.9 Grand Slam, aimed to enhance its competitive edge and overall functionality.

S2 Yachts, founded by Leon Slikkers in 1974, brought a wealth of fiberglass boat-building expertise to the sailboat market. The company quickly earned a reputation for meticulous craftsmanship and stringent quality control, utilizing innovative construction techniques such as incorporating fabric into their manufacturing processes and crafting fiberglass hulls in climate-controlled environments. This commitment to a high standard of build quality defined S2's approach during the era of the 6.9. The vessel features a solid fiberglass hull and deck, with a fractional sloop rig and a lifting keel, allowing for both performance sailing and easy trailering or shoal-water access.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the S2 6.9 exhibits a lively and capable sailing performance. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 21.8, she is well-powered, suggesting excellent performance in light to moderate air. Her displacement to length ratio, calculated at around 149, places her firmly in the category of a lighter, more performance-oriented vessel rather than a heavy cruiser, contributing to her responsiveness. The ballast to displacement ratio of 0.35 indicates a moderate degree of stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a reasonable breeze, though early reefing may be advisable in higher winds given her generous sail plan.

Owners consistently describe the S2 6.9 as fast and enjoyable on all points of sail. Her fractional rig, combined with a high aspect sail plan, contributes to her competitive nature as a club racer and daysailer. The lifting keel and outboard kick-up rudder enhance maneuverability and provide flexibility for shallow water exploration and trailering. While generally praised for its handling, some owners have noted that the boat can be challenging to sail precisely to its rating in competitive scenarios.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the S2 6.9 is designed with a focus on functionality and simplicity, offering "camping-style amenities" rather than attempting to replicate the comforts of larger cruising boats. The layout typically includes a standard V-berth forward, providing sleeping space for two, with a berth length of approximately 6.5 feet. A small area is generally found to the right of the keel enclosure. A porta-potti and a built-in icebox are common features, offering essential conveniences for overnight stays. Two quarter berths, positioned port and starboard, provide additional sleeping capacity. While simple, the interior often retains its original finish and can be quite well-maintained due to the quality of materials and construction.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners generally hold the S2 6.9 in high regard, frequently praising it as a "great little boat" that is "a lot of fun to own." Its performance, particularly in light and moderate winds, is a consistent highlight, making it a popular choice for club racing and spirited daysailing. The solid fiberglass construction and overall build quality instilled by S2 Yachts contribute to its enduring appeal.

However, some recurring themes appear in owner discussions regarding potential maintenance points. The lifting keel mechanism, while offering practical advantages, has been noted as a potential area for issues, with some owners reporting problems such as the fiberglass "shell" around the keel delaminating or binding. While these issues are typically manageable, they represent a common maintenance consideration for prospective buyers. Additionally, like any boat with a lifting keel, striking submerged objects can lead to damage requiring repair. Despite these minor points, the S2 6.9 maintains a loyal following, appreciated for its blend of spirited performance and accessible weekend cruising capabilities.