S2 35 C Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The S2 35 C is a moderate-to-heavy displacement cruiser with a displacement of approximately 15,000 pounds. While it shares a hull with its sibling, the aft-cockpit S2 11.0 A, the center-cockpit configuration places the helm further forward and higher off the water, providing the helmsman with exceptional visibility but a more pronounced sensation of heel. With a Displacement-to-Length (D/L) ratio typically hovering in the 240–250 range, the 35 C is not a light-air flyer; rather, it is a "stiff" boat that excels in a breeze. Owners frequently report that the vessel feels most at home in 15 to 20 knots of wind, where its 5,800 pounds of lead ballast provide a stable platform and a sense of security in a seaway.

The underwater profile features a high-aspect fin keel and a skeg-protected rudder, a configuration that offers a respectable balance between tracking and maneuverability. According to historical Practical Sailor evaluations of the 11.0 series, the boat is remarkably well-balanced for a center-cockpit design, avoiding the excessive weather helm that plagued many of its contemporaries. The sail-area-to-displacement (SA/D) ratio is modest, suggesting that a well-cut 135% or 150% genoa is essential for maintaining boat speed in lighter conditions. Because the cockpit is located midships, the boom is necessarily higher, which raises the center of effort but keeps the cockpit clear of the mainsheet—a safety feature highly valued by cruising couples.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The true genius of the S2 35 C lies in its interior volume. By utilizing a center-cockpit layout, Arthur Edmunds was able to incorporate a dedicated "walk-through" passage leading to a private aft stateroom—a rare luxury for a boat under 36 feet. This aft cabin features a large double berth and, in many configurations, direct access to a secondary head or a vanity, providing a level of owner privacy that was revolutionary for its time. The main salon is characterized by a high overhead, often exceeding 6'4", and the use of rich teak joinery that reflects Slikkers’ commitment to a higher tier of fit and finish.

The galley is typically located in the starboard passageway or at the base of the companionway, designed for use while underway with deep sinks and secure bracing points. Sibling variations are critical to understand when researching this model: the S2 11.0 A (Aft Cockpit) utilizes the same hull and rig but sacrifices the private aft stateroom for a larger cockpit and a more traditional salon-centric layout. While the 35 C/11.0 C was the "luxury" cruiser of the line, the Aft Cockpit version was often preferred by those who prioritized cockpit space for entertaining over multi-cabin privacy. Additionally, the S2 9.2 (30-foot) and S2 8.0 (26-foot) models offered similar aesthetic cues, but the 35 C remains the pinnacle of the "C" series cruising philosophy.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach an S2 35 C with a checklist focused on the specific construction methods used by S2 Yachts during the early 1980s. While S2 was known for superior fiberglass work, they utilized balsa coring in the decks and cabin house, which is susceptible to moisture ingress if deck hardware (stanchions, cleats, and tracks) has not been periodically re-bedded.

1. Deck Saturation: Use a moisture meter or perform a percussion "tap" test around the chainplates and the mast step. Soft spots in the balsa core are a common find in neglected units.
2. Structural Grid & Stringers: S2 utilized a sophisticated fiberglass grid system for structural rigidity. Inspect the bilge area to ensure the grid is not delaminating from the hull—a rare but serious issue often caused by extreme grounding.
3. Chainplate Leakage: The 35 C's chainplates are notoriously difficult to access in some areas. Persistent leaks here can rot the plywood bulkheads they are bolted to, which is a significant structural repair.
4. Engine Access: While the center-cockpit layout allows for decent engine access via removable panels in the walk-through, buyers should check the condition of the original Universal or Yanmar diesel engines, particularly the heat exchangers and mixing elbows, which are prone to corrosion.

Community & Resources

Owners of the S2 35 C benefit from a dedicated and technically proficient community. The S2 Yachts Owners Association serves as the primary repository for original brochures, manual scans, and specific maintenance tips for the 11.0 series. Because S2 Yachts evolved into the modern-day Tiara Yachts, there remains a lingering corporate pride in these vessels, though technical support for the sailboats is now primarily found within these enthusiast-run databases.

The Verdict

The S2 35 C (11.0 C) remains one of the most intelligently designed mid-sized cruisers from the "Golden Age" of fiberglass production. It successfully bridges the gap between a manageable coastal cruiser and a legitimate liveaboard for a couple. While it lacks the raw speed of the S2 9.1 or the Grand Slam series, its robust construction and sophisticated interior make it a standout choice for those who prioritize comfort and build quality over racing trophies.

Pros:

• Exceptional Privacy: One of the smallest boats to offer a functional walk-through aft stateroom.
• Build Quality: Superior fiberglass layup and interior joinery compared to many contemporary mass-market brands.
• Visibility: The elevated center-cockpit helm provides a commanding view of the horizon and sails.

Cons:

• Deck Maintenance: Balsa-cored decks require vigilant maintenance to prevent expensive delamination.
• Engine Service: While access is better than many boats, the "walk-through" passage can become cramped during major mechanical overhauls.
• Light Air Speed: The boat's weight and conservative rig mean it may require motoring in light-wind regions.