S2 11.0 A Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The S2 11.0 A is a quintessential cruiser designed for stability and predictable handling rather than raw racing speed. With a displacement of approximately 15,000 pounds and a ballast-to-displacement ratio exceeding 40%, the vessel exhibits a stiff, "big boat" feel that inspires confidence in heavy air. According to editorial analysis from Practical Sailor, the 11.0 series manages its weight well, though its modest Sail Area-to-Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio suggests it can be sluggish in light airs below 8 knots.

Under sail, the boat tracks exceptionally well thanks to its long fin keel and skeg-hung rudder. Owners often report that the boat can be balanced to the point where the helm feels light even when the wind freshens. The hull’s flared bow sections help keep the deck dry in a chop, a characteristic feature of Arthur Edmunds' designs. While it lacks the agility of its smaller, racing-oriented cousin, the S2 9.1, the 11.0 A provides a sea-kindly motion that reduces fatigue during coastal passages.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the S2 11.0 A is widely considered its greatest strength, showcasing the powerboat-influenced finishing standards of the Slikkers family. While many production boats of the 1980s relied heavily on fiberglass liners, S2 utilized extensive teak cabinetry and solid wood trim. The Aft Cockpit layout features a traditional "U-shaped" galley to starboard and a dedicated navigation station to port. The main salon is characterized by its generous 6'4" headroom and high-gloss finish, which remains remarkably resilient even decades after construction.

The 11.0 series was built on a single hull form but offered in two distinct deck configurations. The S2 11.0 A (Aft Cockpit) prioritizes a large, deep cockpit and a traditional linear salon flow, while the S2 11.0 C (Center Cockpit) utilizes a raised deck to provide a walk-through to a private master stateroom aft. While the 11.0 C offers more privacy for two couples, the 11.0 A is favored for its more elegant profile and the ease of sail handling from a cockpit located closer to the primary winches and the water’s surface.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

For a prospective buyer, the S2 11.0 A is a robust platform, but age-related maintenance is critical.

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era, S2 used balsa-cored decks. Areas around stanchion bases and the windlass are prone to water ingress if the sealant has failed. A percussion test or moisture meter is essential during survey.
• Engine Access: In the Aft Cockpit version, the engine (typically a Yanmar or Universal diesel) is located under the companionway. While basic service is straightforward, major repairs can be cramped due to the tight enclosure.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: The "S2 smile"—a hairline crack at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint—is a common find. While often cosmetic, it should be inspected to ensure the stainless steel keel bolts are properly torqued and not weeping.
• Portlights: The original plastic framed portlights are known to craze and leak over time. Many owners choose to replace these with stainless or aluminum units to preserve the interior wood.

Community & Resources

The legacy of S2 Yachts is maintained by a dedicated group of owners who value the Michigan-built quality of the brand. Technical support and original documentation can often be sourced through the S2 Yachts Owners Association, which serves as a central hub for sharing maintenance tips and rigging diagrams. Because S2 transitioned primarily back to powerboat production (Tiara and Pursuit), the sailboat community relies heavily on these peer-to-peer technical wikis for historical data.

The Verdict

The S2 11.0 A remains a premier choice for cruisers who value build quality and interior aesthetics over modern performance metrics. It is a "sailor's cruiser" that bridges the gap between the mass-market builds of the 80s and higher-end boutique manufacturers.

Pros:

• Superior interior joinery and woodwork compared to period competitors.
• Predictable, stable handling in heavy weather.
• Substantial headroom and living space for a 36-foot vessel.

Cons:

• Underpowered in light wind conditions.
• Potential for core issues in the deck if not properly maintained.
• The aft-cockpit configuration provides less cabin privacy than the center-cockpit version.