S2 9.2 A SD Information, Review, Specs

The S2 9.2 entered production in 1977, designed by Arthur Edmunds, who served as S2's in-house naval architect during the company's early years from 1974 to 1980. Leon Slikkers established S2 Yachts with a clear vision: to leverage his extensive experience in fiberglass construction to build high-quality boats. The manufacturing facility itself was designed for efficiency and stringent quality control, a hallmark of the S2 brand. S2 was among the pioneers in incorporating fabric into their boat manufacturing processes, with fiberglass hulls crafted in a climate-controlled environment to ensure consistent quality., 3]

The 9.2 model was offered in two primary configurations, both utilizing the identical hull: the 9.2A (aft cockpit) and the 9.2C (center cockpit). The "SD" in the 9.2 A SD designation refers to a shallow draft version, offering a maximum draft of 3.92 feet, which expands its accessibility to various cruising grounds. Throughout most of its production run, the hulls were constructed of a solid laminate of fiberglass and resin.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The S2 9.2 A SD is characterized by a balanced set of performance ratios, reflecting its design as a comfortable cruiser with capable sailing characteristics. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of 16.41, the boat is moderately powered, suggesting a competent performance across a range of wind conditions, though perhaps excelling less in very light airs compared to more performance-oriented designs.

Its ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) stands at 40.82%, indicating a good degree of stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to a breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio (Disp/LWL) of 280.0 classifies the S2 9.2 as a moderate-to-heavy displacement cruiser for its size, contributing to its solid feel on the water. Owners often describe the S2 9.2 as a "solid sailboat" that "sails nicely." Specifically, the aft-cockpit version (9.2A) is noted as a "weatherly racer/cruiser" that "really shines under sail." Reports suggest that with modern sails, the S2 9.2 can offer competitive performance against comparable models of its era.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior specifications for the S2 9.2 A SD are best explored directly, the model is generally regarded as "roomy" and provides "decent accommodations" for its size. S2 Yachts became known for using fabric as a hull liner, a feature that often became a trademark of their interiors, contributing to a warmer, finished aesthetic. Though specific headroom figures are not readily available in the core data, the boat's design aims to maximize livable space within its nearly 30-foot length.

Typical interior layouts for sailboats of this size and era often include a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a main salon with settees and a table, and a galley area, possibly with a quarter berth aft. The S2 9.2's design likely follows a similar functional arrangement, prioritizing comfort and utility for coastal cruising or extended weekends. The construction quality, a hallmark of S2 Yachts, suggests a durable and well-appointed interior for its class.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the S2 9.2 models frequently praise their robust construction and overall quality. The solid fiberglass hull, a standard for S2 for most of its production, contributes to a sense of security and durability. The boat's encapsulated lead ballast is a notable design feature, eliminating the concerns associated with bolted-on keels. The S2 9.2 is generally considered a "well-built cruiser." Discussions among owners often revolve around maintenance, potential upgrades, and the enduring sailing capabilities of these vessels, indicating a strong and active community.