Ericson Olson 911 S Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Olson 911 S is a light-displacement racer-cruiser that rewards attentive sail trim. With a Displacement/Length ratio (D/L) typically in the 140–160 range, it is significantly more substantial than the dinghy-like Olson 30 but maintains a nimble, "sporty" feel. In light to moderate air, the boat is exceptionally fast, often outpointing larger cruisers.

However, the boat is known to have a "narrow sweet spot." Anecdotal reports from racers suggest that the 911 S can feel overpowered relatively early; it typically requires a downshift from a 150% genoa to a 135% or #3 jib once true wind speeds hit 12–15 knots to maintain a flat, fast heel angle. The original "S" version features a tall fractional rig and often rod rigging, which provides a rigid, responsive platform for fine-tuning mast bend. Handling is described as crisp, though the boat’s light weight means it can be "lively" in a chop, requiring an active helmsman to keep it tracking efficiently through heavy seas.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Unlike its predecessors in the Olson line, the 911 S features a legitimate "cruising" interior that accommodates a family of four for extended weekends. It offers approximately six feet of headroom in the main salon, a feat achieved through a slightly higher freeboard than pure racing designs. The layout is traditional, featuring a V-berth forward, a central salon with settee berths, a compact galley to starboard, and a dedicated marine head.

The primary variations of this hull are found in the transition from the Pacific Boats "S" model to the Ericson "SE" model. The "S" version is significantly lighter (approx. 7,500 lbs) due to its balsa-cored hull and deck. When Ericson took over production, they opted for a solid fiberglass hull and increased the amount of interior teak and amenities, pushing the displacement up to roughly 8,600 lbs. While the Ericson 911 SE is often considered more durable and "plush" for cruising, the original 911 S is the preferred choice for those prioritizing PHRF or MORC racing performance.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Olson 911 S has a storied history in West Coast racing circuits, frequently appearing in the results of the Chicago Yacht Club’s Mackinac races and Latitude 38’s racing reports. It gained a reputation as a "giant killer" in the late 80s and early 90s, often finishing ahead of 34-to-36-foot boats in light-air regattas.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an Olson 911 S should focus on the integrity of the sandwich construction.

• Deck and Hull Core: Because the "S" model utilizes a balsa-cored hull and deck, moisture intrusion is the most critical concern. Any soft spots around deck hardware, stanchion bases, or chainplates indicate potential core rot that can be expensive to remediate.
• Chainplates: Check for "bleeding" or rust streaks around the chainplate covers. The loads from the rod rigging can be high, making the deck-to-chainplate seal vital.
• Rudder Bearings: Many 911s have seen heavy racing use. Inspect the rudder for play in the bearings and check the trailing edge; early models had straight trailing edges, while later refinements introduced an elliptical shape for better lift and reduced drag.
• Engine Access: While the inboard diesel (often a Yanmar or Universal) is reliable, the engine box is compact. Ensure the mounts are secure and the exhaust riser hasn't corroded, which is common in boats of this vintage.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and owner support is the Ericson Yachts Information Exchange, which hosts an extensive archive of brochures, wiring diagrams, and manuals specifically for the Olson 911 and 34 series. This community is particularly active in documenting hull-specific repairs and performance modifications.

The Verdict

The Olson 911 S is an excellent choice for the sailor who wants the pedigree of a Santa Cruz racer without sacrificing the basic comforts of a cruising yacht. It is a "sailor's boat" that requires active participation but provides immense satisfaction through its speed and balance.

Pros:

• Exceptional light-air performance and pointing ability.
• True cruising interior with 6-foot headroom and an enclosed head.
• High-quality design pedigree from George Olson and Carl Schumacher.
• Active owner community and strong resale value in performance markets.

Cons:

• Balsa-cored hulls (in the "S" model) require vigilant maintenance against moisture.
• Requires early reefing or sail changes as the wind increases.
• The "S" version is rarer and harder to find than the heavier Ericson "SE" variant.