S2 9.2 A Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The S2 9.2 A was first introduced in 1977 and remained in production until 1987, seeing a substantial run of 520 hulls built. Its design originated from the drawing board of Arthur Edmunds, S2 Yachts' in-house naval architect, who was responsible for several of the builder's early designs between 1974 and 1980. Edmunds' philosophy for the S2 9.2, and indeed his other S2 designs, leaned towards a moderate and conventionally modern approach, characterized by short overhangs and a relatively flat sheer. The boat was conceived primarily as a cruiser, aiming to balance sailing efficiency with liveability.

S2 Yachts, under the guidance of Leon Slikkers, established a reputation for meticulous craftsmanship and high-quality fiberglass construction. The company's manufacturing facility was recognized for its production-line efficiency and stringent quality control, with fiberglass hulls crafted in a climate-controlled environment to ensure consistent quality. S2 was also an early adopter of innovative construction techniques, incorporating fabric into their manufacturing processes.

During its production run, the S2 9.2 model had a significant variation: the S2 9.2 A (aft cockpit) and the S2 9.2 C (center cockpit). Both versions shared the same hull but featured distinct deck and interior layouts. Early models of the 9.2 were equipped with Atomic 4 gasoline engines as standard, a common choice of the era, though S2 transitioned to Yanmar or Volvo diesel engines as standard from 1979 onwards, offering a more modern and fuel-efficient power plant.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The S2 9.2 A offers a balanced performance profile, suitable for both cruising and light racing. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of 16.41, the boat is generally responsive in moderate breezes, suggesting decent performance without being overly sensitive in lighter airs. Its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of 0.408 (40.82%) indicates a good degree of stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up to its canvas effectively in stronger winds and contribute to a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of 280 places the 9.2 A firmly in the category of a moderate displacement cruiser, striking a balance between light, nimble performance boats and heavier, more traditional designs.

Under sail, the S2 9.2 A is often described as a weatherly boat that "really shines under sail". Owners generally find it well-behaved and capable in various sea states, offering a solid and predictable motion, indicative of its fin keel and skeg-hung rudder configuration. The design's conventional lines contribute to its stable and comfortable handling characteristics, making it a reliable choice for coastal cruising and club racing alike.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its under-30-foot length overall, the S2 9.2 A provides a surprisingly functional and conventional interior layout. Key to its comfort is a maximum headroom of 6.25 feet, allowing most individuals to stand upright comfortably below deck. The typical interior arrangement for the aft-cockpit 9.2 A includes a V-berth forward, which some owners note can be "a bit short" for taller individuals. A notable feature is the generously sized head compartment, a welcome amenity on a boat of this size.

A conventional main salon follows, typically featuring a dinette or settees that can convert into berths, alongside a compact galley area. Storage is generally adequate for a boat of its vintage and size, though prospective owners often look for ways to optimize space. While S2 was known for its quality construction, like many older fiberglass boats, some S2 9.2 A models may exhibit issues with original deck fittings or portlights developing leaks over time, which if not addressed, can lead to interior cosmetic issues. When properly maintained, the interior finish and use of materials, typical of the late 1970s and early 1980s, offer a classic and functional sailing environment.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the S2 9.2 A frequently praise its robust construction and solid feel on the water, often describing it as a "stout ship". Many appreciate its sailing performance, noting its ability to handle well in various conditions and deliver an enjoyable sailing experience. The boat's moderate displacement and ballast contribute to a comfortable and stable ride, making it a favored choice for cruising enthusiasts.

However, as with any vessel of its age, common maintenance items and potential weaknesses have been noted. A recurring theme among owners is the tendency for the original portlights to develop leaks, which can lead to water intrusion and require re-bedding or replacement. The V-berth, while present, is sometimes cited as being somewhat short. Despite these minor points, the S2 9.2 A continues to be admired for its overall build quality, sailing capabilities, and suitability as a capable cruiser-racer for both coastal and, for some, even more adventurous offshore passages.