S2 11.0 C Information, Review, Specs

The 11.0 C shares its hull with its sibling, the S2 11.0 A (Aft Cockpit), providing a versatile platform for buyers who prioritized either a traditional deck layout or the expansive interior volume of the center cockpit design. According to the Tiara Yachts Heritage record, the S2 line was founded on the principle of bringing "uncompromising quality" to the production market, and the 11.0 C remains one of the largest and most ambitious expressions of that philosophy.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The S2 11.0 C is a quintessential moderate-displacement cruiser. With a displacement of approximately 15,000 pounds and a fin keel drawing five feet, it possesses the mass required for a steady, comfortable motion in a seaway. The design avoids the "flighty" nature of lighter contemporary boats, instead opting for a predictable, "train-on-tracks" feel that appeals to long-distance cruisers and short-handed couples. Its sail area-to-displacement ratio (SA/Disp) sits in the mid-16s, suggesting a boat that requires a decent breeze to truly wake up but remains stiff and composed as the wind climbs into the 20-knot range.

On the water, the center cockpit configuration places the helmsman high and dry, providing excellent visibility, though it does result in a higher center of gravity compared to the 11.0 A. Owners often report that the boat tracks exceptionally well off the wind due to its balanced hull form and substantial skeg-protected rudder. While it is not a "greyhound" of the racecourse like the later Grand Slam series (such as the S2 9.1 or 7.9), the 11.0 C handles technical maneuvers with dignity. In heavy air, the boat’s high freeboard can create some windage during low-speed docking, but once under sail, that same freeboard contributes to a dry deck and a feeling of security when crossing open sounds.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the S2 11.0 C is where the model truly distinguishes itself from its peers. By moving the cockpit to the center of the boat, Arthur Edmunds was able to create a genuine master stateroom aft, complete with a double berth and private access to the head. This "split" accommodation plan provides a level of privacy usually reserved for much larger yachts. The walkthrough from the main salon to the aft cabin is a defining feature, often doubling as a functional galley or navigation station area depending on the specific year of production.

The main salon is characterized by S2’s signature use of warm teak joinery and high-quality upholstery fabrics. Unlike many production boats of the 1980s that relied on thin veneers, S2 was known for its robust interior finishing. The forward V-berth offers ample space for guests, while the central salon features a U-shaped dinette that can be converted into an additional double berth. The headroom is generous throughout, typically exceeding 6'3", which enhances the sense of airiness provided by the numerous opening ports and overhead hatches.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach an S2 11.0 C with a focus on the structural and mechanical systems typical of 40-year-old fiberglass vessels. While S2 hulls are generally considered overbuilt, certain model-specific areas require scrutiny.

• Deck Core Integrity: Like most boats of this era, the decks are balsa-cored. While S2’s manufacturing was superior, any poorly bedded hardware (stanchions, cleats, or tracks) can lead to localized delamination or soft spots.
• Fuel Tank Material: Many original S2 11.0 Cs were equipped with aluminum fuel tanks. If these have been sitting in bilge water or have suffered from internal condensation, they may be prone to pinhole leaks.
• Rudder Post and Skeg: The skeg-hung rudder is a robust design, but the bushings and the connection between the skeg and the hull should be checked for stress cracks or play, especially on boats that have spent significant time in high-grounding areas.
• Engine Access: While the center cockpit layout provides great interior volume, engine access can sometimes be tighter than in the aft-cockpit model. Buyers should check the condition of the motor mounts and the exhaust riser, which can be difficult to inspect visually.

Community & Resources

The S2 11.0 C benefits from a dedicated and highly active ownership community. The S2 Yachts Owners Association serves as the primary hub for technical data, rigging specs, and original brochures. Because S2 Yachts transitioned into Tiara Yachts and Pursuit Boats, the company's legacy of customer service is still felt, and many owners find that the build quality of these sailboats mirrors the high-end powerboats the company produces today.

The Verdict

The S2 11.0 C is an exceptional choice for the cruising couple or small family looking for a "big-boat" feel in a manageable 36-foot package. It sacrifices the raw speed of a racer for the livability and sea-kindliness of a true home-on-the-water.

Pros:

• Superior Interior Privacy: The aft-cabin master stateroom is a class leader for boats under 38 feet.
• Build Quality: Constructed by a manufacturer with a reputation for high-end fiberglass work and durable finishes.
• Handling: Predictable and stable performance that inspires confidence in offshore conditions.
• Aesthetics: A timeless, clean profile that avoids the "clunky" look often associated with smaller center-cockpit designs.

Cons:

• Light Air Performance: The heavy displacement and moderate sail plan mean the engine may be required in light winds.
• Windage: High freeboard can make the boat challenging to handle in tight marinas during heavy gusts.
• Age-Related Maintenance: Buyers must be prepared to address 40-year-old deck hardware and plumbing systems.