S2 9.2 C Information, Review, Specs

Built by S2 Yachts in Holland, Michigan, the 9.2 C embodies the meticulous craftsmanship and production efficiency championed by founder Leon Slikkers. These vessels were conceived to offer a robust and reliable sailing experience, establishing a strong reputation in the sailing community during their production run.

The S2 9.2 series, including the center cockpit 'C' variant, was introduced in 1977 and remained in production until 1987, with 426 units built. The design itself was penned by Arthur Edmunds, S2's in-house naval architect, who contributed significantly to S2's early sailboat designs between 1974 and 1980. Edmunds' philosophy for the 9.2 C aimed to balance cruising comfort with respectable sailing characteristics within a compact package.

During this era, S2 Yachts, under Leon Slikkers' leadership, was renowned for its commitment to high-quality construction. They were among the early adopters of innovative fiberglass construction techniques, utilizing a climate-controlled environment for hull crafting to ensure consistent quality and a superior gelcoat finish. The 9.2 C was offered with both a standard fin keel, drawing 4.92 feet, and a shoal draft option, which reduced the draft to 3.92 feet, catering to a wider range of cruising grounds. This flexibility in design reflects S2's responsiveness to market demands while maintaining their core values of durability and functionality.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The S2 9.2 C is characterized by a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.41. This figure suggests a moderate cruising sailboat that performs capably in typical conditions but is not optimized for extreme light-air performance. Its ballast-to-displacement ratio of 0.408, just over 40%, indicates a stiff and stable platform, allowing the boat to stand up to a good breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. With a displacement-to-length ratio of 280, the 9.2 C falls into the category of a moderately heavy cruiser, suggesting a solid build and a more forgiving motion compared to lighter, more performance-oriented designs.

Owners generally describe the S2 9.2 C as an easy-to-sail boat with good balance between its main and jib sail area, and a convenient deck layout for running rigging and hardware. While some humorously refer to S2s as "Slowly Sideways," especially for the shoal-draft versions that may struggle upwind with tired sails, the boat is widely regarded as a solid performer for cruising. Its skeg-hung rudder contributes to predictable handling and enhanced directional stability, particularly in challenging sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its under-30-foot length, the S2 9.2 C's center cockpit design cleverly maximizes interior volume and offers surprisingly expansive accommodations. With a generous maximum headroom of 6.17 feet, the cabin feels open and inviting. The typical interior arrangement features a private aft cabin, a significant advantage for a boat of this size, providing a dedicated sleeping area away from the main salon.

The galley is often described as a full U-shaped configuration, offering ample counter space and storage, which is highly appreciated by liveaboards and those undertaking extended cruises. The main salon usually includes a dinette and settee, convertible to additional berths, creating a comfortable living area. Forward, a V-berth typically serves as a second sleeping area, often alongside a dedicated head compartment. The interior finish generally features quality materials such as teak veneer plywood, Formica, and solid teak trim, reflecting S2's reputation for good workmanship. The emphasis on space and practical living areas makes the S2 9.2 C a popular choice for those seeking a liveaboard solution or a comfortable cruiser for a single person or couple.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the S2 9.2 C consistently praise its robust build quality, which includes features like encapsulated lead ballast, bulkheads glassed directly to the hull, and a through-bolted hull-to-deck joint. This solid construction is frequently cited as a major strength, contributing to the boat's perceived safety and longevity. The interior layout and the amount of space available for its size are also highly regarded, with many owners choosing the boat specifically for its accommodating design.

However, some common issues or areas for attention are noted. The original deck fittings, particularly the windows, have been known to develop leaks over time, often requiring re-bedding. While generally well-built, some owners have mentioned concerns about potential core issues in older models. The high profile of the center cockpit, while contributing to interior volume, is sometimes noted as a design characteristic by owners. Despite these points, the S2 9.2 C continues to be appreciated for its good value, reliable performance, and comfortable cruising capabilities within its size class.