S2 6.8 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

On the water, the S2 6.8 is characterized by a "big boat" feel, primarily due to its generous ballast-to-displacement ratio. With approximately 900 pounds of lead encapsulated in its fin keel—or a similar weight in its shoal-draft/centerboard configuration—the boat exhibits remarkable stiffness. Unlike lighter fractional-rigged sportboats of the same length, the 6.8 tracks well and resists the "twitchy" behavior common in the 22-foot class.

The masthead sloop rig is simple and robust, designed for ease of handling by a solo sailor or a small family. Because the boat carries its beam of 8 feet well aft, it offers a stable platform that does not heel excessively in moderate breezes. Owners often report that the boat remains manageable even when the wind gusts above 15 knots, though like most Edmunds designs, it rewards early reefing to maintain an upright posture and reduce weather helm. While it lacks the raw acceleration of its performance-oriented sibling, the S2 6.9, the 6.8 excels in sea-kindliness, cutting through chop with a dampened motion that inspires confidence during coastal hops.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the S2 6.8 was a primary selling point, marketed as a "luxury" small cruiser. The cabin features a traditional layout with a V-berth forward, two settee berths in the main salon, and a small galley area usually equipped with a recessed stove and a manual water pump. The use of genuine teak trim and high-quality fabrics set it apart from the "carpet-and-plastic" interiors of its competitors.

The S2 6.8 was essentially an evolution of the S2 6.7. While they share the same hull length, the 6.8 introduced a deeper, more ergonomic cockpit and a revised deck mold that allowed for slightly improved headroom and a more functional companionway. The boat was offered in two primary underwater configurations: a fixed fin keel for maximum stability and windward performance, and a shoal-draft model with a swing-centerboard, which reduced the minimum draft to just 2 feet, making it an ideal candidate for gunkholing and easier trailering. A rare sibling, the S2 6.9, was built on a similar footprint but featured a more aggressive rig and a different deck layout aimed at the club-racing market.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Despite the high build quality associated with S2 Yachts, the age of the 6.8 fleet necessitates a careful inspection of several key areas.

• Deck Core Integrity: Like most production boats of this era, the S2 6.8 uses a balsa-cored deck. Buyers should check for soft spots around the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the mast step. Water intrusion in these areas can lead to delamination, a common but labor-intensive repair.
• Compression Post: The mast is deck-stepped and relies on an internal compression post. Over time, the structural block beneath the post (often hidden under the floorboards) can rot or compress, leading to a "sagging" deck and rigging that is impossible to tune correctly.
• Rudder Bushings: The spade rudder on the 6.8 is known to develop "slop" or play in the bushings. While not a structural failure in most cases, it degrades the steering feel and can cause an annoying vibration while under power or at high sailing speeds.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: On fixed-keel models, the "smile" at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint should be inspected. While S2 used robust keel bolts, 40 years of grounding or stress can cause the sealant to fail, requiring the keel to be dropped and re-bedded.

Community & Resources

Owners of the S2 6.8 benefit from a dedicated community that preserves the legacy of S2's sailing years. The S2 Yachts Owners Association serves as a primary repository for technical manuals and original brochures. Additionally, because of the brand's crossover with the powerboat world, some technical support and historical context can still be found through the Tiara Yachts legacy resources, which acknowledge the Slikkers family's origins in these well-built sailboats.

The Verdict

The S2 6.8 remains a top-tier choice for sailors seeking a trailerable boat that does not feel like a compromise. It offers a rare blend of "overbuilt" construction and classic aesthetics, making it a sustainable investment for those who appreciate quality over raw speed.

Pros:

• Superior build quality and interior finish compared to many 1970s/80s peers.
• Exceptional stability and stiffness for a 22-foot boat.
• Trailerable beam (8 feet) allows for flexible cruising grounds.
• Thoughtful cockpit ergonomics designed for adult comfort.

Cons:

• Heavier than many modern 22-footers, requiring a more substantial tow vehicle.
• The masthead rig is less "tweakable" for performance-oriented sailors.
• Access to the outboard motor can be awkward depending on the bracket configuration.