S2 5.5 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The S2 5.5 is often described by owners as a "stiff" boat for its size, a characteristic stemming from its significant ballast-to-displacement ratio. With a displacement of approximately 1,500 pounds and nearly 600 pounds of that dedicated to the keel, the boat handles gusty conditions with more grace than lighter, flatter-bottomed daysailers. It was typically offered with a fixed fin keel, which provides excellent tracking and upwind performance, though a shoal-draft version was also produced to cater to sailors in shallower coastal waters.

On the water, the 5.5 behaves predictably. Its hull shape, influenced by the early design work of Arthur Edmunds for the S2 line, features a relatively deep V-entry that helps it slice through the "choppy" conditions often found on inland lakes—the boat's primary habitat. While it is not a racing machine in the vein of its later sibling, the S2 7.9, it maintains respectable speed and is remarkably easy to single-hand thanks to a simple masthead rig and a cockpit layout that puts the primary controls within easy reach of the helm. Its stability makes it an ideal platform for families or those transitioning from dinghies to keelboats, providing a sense of security that is often missing in 18-footers.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its modest 18-foot length, the S2 5.5 features a surprisingly functional enclosed cabin, which distinguishes it from open-cockpit daysailers of the period. The interior is designed around a classic "V-berth" configuration in the bow, providing sleeping accommodations for two adults. Most hulls were equipped with a small area for a portable head tucked beneath the cushions and a modest amount of storage for gear and basic galley supplies.

The aesthetic of the cabin reflects the S2 commitment to quality, often featuring teak trim and well-fitted liners that prevent the "raw fiberglass" look common in budget-friendly boats of the 1970s. However, sailors must be realistic about the dimensions; with limited headroom, the interior is best suited for "sitting room only" and is intended for overnighting rather than extended living. The 5.5 shares its design DNA with its larger siblings, specifically the S2 6.7 and 6.8, which offered slightly more volume and dedicated galley sections while maintaining the same sleek, flush-deck aesthetic.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the S2 5.5 is celebrated for its overbuilt construction, several decades of use necessitate a careful inspection of specific technical areas:

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era, the S2 5.5 utilizes a balsa-cored deck. Buyers should check for soft spots, particularly around the chainplates and the mast step. Water intrusion in these areas can lead to delamination and structural weakening.
• Chainplate Anchors: The chainplates are bolted to fiberglass knees. Over time, the sealant can fail, leading to leaks that may not be immediately visible but can cause moisture to migrate into the core or oxidize the stainless steel hardware.
• Compression Post: The mast is deck-stepped and relies on an internal compression post. Ensure the base of this post is not showing signs of rot or "crushing" into the cabin sole, which can affect rig tension.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: For fixed-keel versions, the "smile" at the leading edge of the keel-hull joint should be inspected. While rarely a structural failure on these boats, significant cracking may indicate a need for re-torqueing the keel bolts and refreshing the sealant.

Community & Resources

The S2 5.5 enjoys a quiet but dedicated following, supported largely by broader S2 owner groups. The S2 Yachts Owners Association remains the primary repository for technical manuals and historical brochures. Owners often congregate on general sailing forums like CruisersForum and SailNet to share specific restoration tips, as many of these boats are now popular candidates for "refresh" projects due to their manageable size and high build quality.

The Verdict

The S2 5.5 is a rare example of a "premium" micro-cruiser that refuses to compromise on build quality despite its small footprint. It is an excellent choice for the sailor who wants a trailerable boat that feels like a yacht rather than a toy.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: Superior fiberglass work and materials compared to most 18-footers.
• Stability: High ballast ratio makes it safe and predictable in heavy air.
• Trailerability: Easily moved with a standard SUV or truck, allowing for a wide cruising range.
• Aesthetics: Classic, clean lines that have aged better than many of its contemporaries.

Cons:

• Tight Interior: Best suited for one or two people for short trips; headroom is minimal.
• Light Air Performance: The heavy displacement means it can be sluggish in very light winds compared to lighter racing dinghies.
• Age-Related Maintenance: Potential for deck core issues if hardware has not been properly re-bedded over the decades.