S2 35 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The S2 35.0 is characterized by a refined hull form that favors a higher degree of windward efficiency than its predecessors. While the earlier 11.0 models were known for being somewhat "tender" or prone to early reeling in heavy gusts, the 35.0 features a more modern underbody with a lead keel that provides a lower center of gravity. This translates to a boat that stands up well to its canvas and tracks with significantly more authority. The helm is typically described as responsive but forgiving; the boat utilizes a high-aspect spade rudder that offers excellent maneuverability in tight marinas, a hallmark of the Graham & Schlageter design influence.

In terms of technical ratios, the S2 35.0 possesses a moderate displacement-to-length ratio that suggests a "dual-purpose" nature. It is not an ultra-light displacement boat, yet it avoids the sluggishness associated with heavy-displacement traditionalists. On a reach, the hull’s relatively flat aft sections allow it to accelerate quickly, and owners often report that the boat feels "lively" in 10 to 15 knots of breeze. The rigging is a standard masthead sloop, which allows for a large headsail to drive the boat through light air, common in the Great Lakes where many of these vessels were first commissioned.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the S2 35.0 is where Leon Slikkers' background in high-end powerboats (Slickcraft and Tiara) becomes most evident. The cabin is noted for its extensive use of warm teak and a level of finish that surpasses many of its production contemporaries. The "Aft Cockpit" (A) version focuses on a traditional layout with a generous V-berth, a U-shaped dinette to port, and a functional galley adjacent to the companionway. The "Center Cockpit" (C) variant, however, utilizes the same hull to create a surprisingly private owner’s suite aft, connected by a pass-through that usually houses the engine access or a navigation station.

Headroom is a standout feature, typically exceeding 6'3" in the main salon, which contributes to an airy, open feel enhanced by S2’s signature deck hatches and ports. The sibling models built on similar lines, such as the S2 10.3, offer a stripped-down, more performance-focused interior, whereas the 35.0 prioritizes the "live-aboard" experience with better insulation and more robust cabinetry. The integration of the molded headliner and the quality of the teak-and-holly sole are frequently cited as reasons for the model's enduring value on the used market.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an S2 35.0 should focus their inspection on several key areas common to mid-80s S2 builds. While the hulls are generally solid fiberglass below the waterline, the decks are balsa-cored.

• Deck Hardware Bedding: Over decades, the bedding compound around stanchion bases and jib tracks can fail. Inspect the deck for "sponginess" or elevated moisture readings, particularly around the chainplates and the foredeck.
• The "S2 Smile": Similar to many bolt-on keel designs, a hairline crack may develop at the leading edge where the keel meets the hull stub. While often cosmetic, it should be checked for evidence of loose keel bolts or structural compression of the fiberglass stub.
• Rudder Post Wear: The high-aspect spade rudder puts significant leverage on the rudder bearings. Check for excessive "slop" or play in the helm while the boat is out of the water.
• Mast Step and Compression: Examine the base of the mast and the compression post in the salon. In some models, water intrusion from a leaky mast boot can settle at the base, leading to corrosion or localized softening of the support structure.
• Original Plumbing and Wiring: While S2 used high-quality components for the era, many 35.0s still have original gate valves (instead of proper seacocks) or aging electrical panels that may require modernization for offshore safety.

Community & Resources

The S2 35.0 benefits from a very active and loyal owner community. The most prominent resource is the S2 Yachts Owner’s Association, which maintains archives of original brochures and technical manuals. Because many of these boats were built and sold in the Midwest, there is a high concentration of technical knowledge among Lake Michigan-based sailing clubs. Owners often share "hacks" for upgrading the older Yanmar or Universal diesel engines that were standard for the model.

The Verdict

The S2 35.0 is a sophisticated "sleeper" in the brokerage market, offering a build quality that often exceeds its current valuation. It is an ideal vessel for a couple or small family looking for a capable coastal cruiser that can still hold its own in a Wednesday night club race.

Pros:

• Superior Build Quality: Exceptional interior joinery and fiberglass work compared to modern entry-level production boats.
• Balanced Design: A successful marriage of Graham & Schlageter performance with Slikkers' comfort.
• Generous Headroom: One of the most spacious interiors in the 35-foot category for its era.
• Strong Support: Robust owner associations and a lingering reputation for quality.

Cons:

• Balsa-Cored Decks: Susceptible to moisture if deck hardware has not been meticulously maintained.
• Aging Systems: Older units may still have original gate valves and electrical components that require replacement.
• Keel-Stub Maintenance: Requires periodic inspection of the keel joint to ensure structural integrity.