Flying Cruiser S Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Flying Cruiser S is characterized by its light displacement, typically weighing between 350kg and 450kg depending on the specific equipment and ballast configuration. With a standard sail area of approximately 14 square meters, the boat possesses a relatively high sail-area-to-displacement ratio for a pocket cruiser, ensuring it remains lively in light air. Because it utilizes a centerboard, the "S" variant offers the dual advantage of a shallow draft (approximately 0.20m with the board up) for beaching and a deeper draft (approximately 1.20m) for upwind performance.

Handling is described by owners as forgiving yet communicative, mirroring the sensations of a heavy dinghy rather than a lead-mine keelboat. The hull's wide beam of 2.00 meters provides significant initial stability, allowing it to carry its canvas well into moderate breezes. However, as a centerboard boat, it relies heavily on crew weight and active sheeting in gusty conditions. For those seeking more offshore stability, BWC produced the Flying Cruiser F (Festkiel), which features a fixed keel and a higher ballast ratio, though it lacks the "S" model's ability to navigate extremely shallow shorelines. Another variant, the Flying Cruiser J (Jolle), serves as an open-cockpit version without the cabin structure, offering a more traditional dinghy experience on the same hull platform.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its diminutive size, the Flying Cruiser S features an enclosed cuddy cabin that significantly expands its utility beyond a simple daysailer. The interior is primarily designed for "micro-cruising" or overnighting for two adults. The layout consists of a V-berth arrangement with storage bins located beneath the cushions. While the headroom is restricted—precluding standing upright—the cabin provides essential protection from the elements and a secure space for dry storage.

The manufacturer offers several interior refinements, often utilizing mahogany trim and textile liners to soften the functional GRP surfaces. The cabin's design is inextricably linked to its siblings; for instance, the Flying Family model utilizes a larger hull mold to provide increased volume, whereas the Cruiser S prioritizes a compact profile that fits inside a standard garage. The transition between the cockpit and the cabin is managed via a removable washboard and a sliding hatch, a feature often cited by technical reviewers as surprisingly robust for a boat of this class.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of older Flying Cruiser S models should focus their inspections on the centerboard trunk and the pivot bolt. Over years of use, the centerboard can develop lateral play, leading to "clunking" while at anchor or under sail, and the lifting pendant should be checked for fraying.

Another area of concern is the mast step and the deck-to-hull joint. In earlier models, stress cracks can form around the mast base if the rig has been consistently over-tensioned. Because the boat is frequently trailered, the hull's gelcoat should be inspected for "star cracks" caused by poorly adjusted trailer rollers. Furthermore, while the GRP layup is generally thick and durable, any evidence of soft spots in the cockpit floor or deck should be treated as a sign of core delamination, particularly in boats that have been stored outdoors without a proper cover.

Community & Resources

The Flying Cruiser S enjoys a dedicated following, particularly in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Technical support and original replacement parts are uniquely available through the original builder, BWC Illmensee, which continues to support the class. While no large-scale international class association exists, the boat is a frequent topic on German-language sailing forums, where owners share modifications for single-handed sailing and custom trailer setups.

The Verdict

The Flying Cruiser S is an ideal entry-level vessel for sailors who prioritize portability and versatility over offshore capability. It remains one of the few models in its size bracket that successfully integrates a functional sleeping cabin without sacrificing the spirited handling of a dinghy.

Pros:

• Excellent trailerability and ease of launching via ramp.
• Highly versatile "S" version allows for exploration of very shallow waters.
• Continued manufacturer support for parts and technical data.
• Strong resale value in the European market.

Cons:

• Limited interior headroom and amenities for extended cruising.
• Centerboard configuration requires more maintenance than a fixed keel.
• Light weight makes it sensitive to crew positioning and weight distribution.