S2 9.1 SE Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The S2 9.1 SE was first introduced in 1983 as part of S2 Yachts' commitment to producing quality sailboats. The model, including the Special Edition, continued production until 1987, with approximately 127 units built across the 9.1 line. Graham & Schlageter designed the S2 9.1 primarily as a Midget Ocean Racing Club (MORC) racer, aiming for a boat that could perform well on the race course while retaining cruising amenities. S2 Yachts, under Leon Slikkers' vision, established a manufacturing facility regarded for its efficiency and stringent quality control, leveraging extensive experience in fiberglass construction to ensure a high standard of build quality. The company was an early adopter of innovative techniques, including incorporating fabric into their manufacturing processes and crafting fiberglass hulls in a climate-controlled environment. The Special Edition (SE) models, though limited to only four units, featured a vacuum-bagged hull and an alternate interior layout, contributing to a 400-pound weight reduction and a 9-inch taller rig, hinting at an even greater emphasis on performance for these specific variants.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The S2 9.1 SE boasts impressive performance ratios that translate into a lively and capable sailing experience. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 20.64, she exhibits good light-air performance, suggesting she can move well even in lighter breezes. Her ballast of 3,200 pounds, combined with a displacement of 7,600 pounds, yields a Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.42, indicating a stiff and stable boat capable of standing up to more wind without excessive heeling. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 196.86 places her in the lighter, more performance-oriented category for a boat of her size.

Sailors consistently praise the S2 9.1 for its excellent handling and control, often noted as easy to singlehand for cruising. The fin keel design, a common feature, provides splendid maneuverability, although it may offer less directional stability compared to a full or long keel. Owners describe the S2 9.1 as sailing very evenly and being a good all-rounder, particularly excelling upwind in medium air at the upper end of a No. 1 genoa.

Accommodations and Layout

While the detailed specifications for the interior vary, the S2 9.1 SE was designed with a typical layout for a performance cruiser of its size, balancing racing utility with comfort. Standard interior arrangements include a V-berth forward, providing sleeping quarters, and an aft quarter berth, which is a common feature offering additional sleeping space. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the Special Edition models featured an "alternate interior layout" presumably to reduce weight. S2 Yachts was known for its "well-built, high-quality" boats, suggesting a sturdy and practical interior finish, likely featuring robust fiberglass components. Online resources and owner discussions often showcase interiors that are functional and well-suited for both racing crews and cruising couples.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the S2 9.1 and its SE variant frequently highlight the boat's enduring value, attributing it to superior construction, a solid reputation, and a dedicated owner base. The boat's excellent handling, balanced feel, and ease of single-handed operation are commonly cited strengths. While generally well-regarded, some owners have noted specific historical considerations. For instance, early S2 models, particularly those built before 1984, occasionally faced blister problems on their hulls, a widespread issue in the fiberglass industry at the time; S2 Yachts addressed this by switching to AME4000 resin in 1984. Additionally, some owners have identified the mild steel plate glassed into the keel fastening as a point of attention for maintenance. Despite these points, the collective sentiment emphasizes the S2 9.1 SE as a capable and rewarding sailboat that maintains its appeal in the used boat market.