S2 8.0 A Information, Review, Specs

Built for weekend adventures and coastal explorations, the S2 8.0 A established S2 Yachts' commitment to quality construction and thoughtful design from its inception. Its relatively low production numbers contribute to its unique standing in the market, appealing to those who appreciate a well-built vessel with a touch of historical significance.

History and Design

The S2 8.0 A was introduced in 1974, the same year Leon Slikkers founded S2 Yachts in Holland, Michigan, following a period of non-compete in the powerboat market. Production of this specific model ran for two years, concluding in 1975, with only 40 units ever built. This initial design, a collaboration between Arthur Edmunds and Leon Slikkers, set the stage for S2's foray into the sailboat industry. Slikkers brought extensive fiberglass construction experience to S2 Yachts, establishing a manufacturing ethos focused on meticulous craftsmanship and stringent quality control, with hulls crafted in climate-controlled environments.

The 8.0 A was characterized by its unique short, bulbous cabin, which the company later evolved. This original configuration was quickly succeeded by the S2 8.0 B, which featured a longer coach roof and different deck and interior arrangements, though all 8.0 versions shared the same fundamental hull design. This rapid evolution highlights S2's adaptability and commitment to refining their designs based on market feedback and perceived improvements.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 26 feet and a waterline length of 21.42 feet, the S2 8.0 A was designed to deliver a lively performance for its size. Its reported sail area of 282 square feet combined with a displacement of 4,600 pounds results in a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.34. This figure suggests a moderately powered vessel that should perform adequately in light airs while remaining manageable as the wind builds.

The S2 8.0 A boasts a ballast of 1,800 pounds, composed of lead, which contributes to a Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of about 0.39. This solid ratio indicates a stable and stiff boat, capable of standing up well to a breeze and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 209 positions it in the lighter end of moderate displacement, hinting at a responsive hull that offers more sprightly performance than heavier, more traditional cruisers. With a fin keel and spade rudder, the S2 8.0 A is designed for good maneuverability and responsiveness. While specific anecdotal sailing reviews for the "A" model are scarce due to its rarity, the shared hull design with the later 8.0B and 8.0C models suggests a similar on-water character, which owners of those versions have sometimes described as performing like a larger boat. The theoretical hull speed for the S2 8.0 A is calculated at 6.2 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact length and the "short bulbous cabin" noted in its design, the interior accommodations of the S2 8.0 A are geared towards functional cruising within a smaller volume. While specific detailed layouts for the 'A' model are not widely documented, S2 Yachts generally earned a reputation for well-designed and executed interiors with good glasswork and gelcoat quality across its range.

The 8.0 A's interior likely featured a typical arrangement for a cruiser of its size and era, with V-berth forward, a compact head, a salon area with settees that may convert to berths, and a small galley. The decision to replace the 8.0 A with the 8.0 B, featuring a longer coach roof, suggests that the original 8.0 A likely had more limited standing headroom and overall interior volume compared to its successors. Storage would be adequate for weekend trips, though extended cruising might require a more disciplined approach to provisions. Materials would typically include fiberglass finishes complemented by wood trim, characteristic of S2's focus on durable and presentable interiors.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of S2 yachts, in general, frequently commend the solid construction and overall build quality of these vessels, often citing the excellent glasswork and gelcoat as primary buying considerations. While specific owner reviews for the rare S2 8.0 A are limited, the collective experience of S2 owners points to a robustly built boat designed for longevity.

Common observations across various S2 models sometimes include a tendency for original deck fittings to develop leaks over time, often requiring re-bedding as a routine maintenance item. Given the age of the S2 8.0 A, potential owners should anticipate addressing such age-related wear. Despite the limited production run, the S2 8.0 A remains an admired model for its foundational role in S2 Yachts' sailboat history and for offering a quality, compact cruising experience.