S2 6.9 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The S2 6.9 is widely regarded as a "sailor's boat," characterized by its high responsiveness and a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio typically exceeding 21. This indicates a vessel that is exceptionally powered for its weight, allowing it to excel in light-air conditions where heavier cruising boats might stall. Its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio sits in the 140 range, categorizing it as a light-displacement hull capable of impressive off-the-wind speeds.

Handling is defined by the boat's fractionally rigged mast and its vertically lifting daggerboard-style keel. Unlike a traditional swing keel that hinges, the 6.9’s keel retracts vertically into a trunk, which centralizes the weight and improves upwind tracking. On the helm, the boat is known for being "flickable," providing immediate feedback to the rudder. According to archival technical discussions from the S2 7.9 Class Association, which often tracks the history of the smaller Grand Slam siblings, the 6.9 shares the same balanced hull form as the 7.9, allowing it to remain stable even when pressed, provided the crew is diligent with reefing as the breeze nears 15 knots. Its ability to retract the keel entirely also makes it a formidable coastal explorer, capable of navigating into shallow bays and being easily ramp-launched from a trailer.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a boat under 23 feet, the S2 6.9 offers a surprisingly functional, albeit compact, interior suited for weekend "pocket cruising." The layout is straightforward: a V-berth forward, a central area typically housing a portable chemical toilet tucked under a cushion, and two long settee berths extending aft under the cockpit seats. Because the boat features a daggerboard trunk, the interior is bisected by the keel housing, which dictates much of the cabin's ergonomics.

Materials reflect Slikkers’ commitment to quality, often featuring teak accents and high-grade marine upholstery that surpassed the industry standards of the 1980s. While there is no standing headroom—a common trait for performance boats in this class—the "pop-top" style companionway hatch on some units helps increase ventilation and the feeling of space while at anchor. The S2 6.9 did not see the massive production runs of the S2 9.2, meaning internal variations are rare, though some owners have customized the small galley area (which usually consists of a simple sink and space for a one-burner stove) to better suit modern cruising needs.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of the S2 6.9 should focus their inspection on the specific engineering choices made during the Grand Slam era.

• Balsa Core Integrity: S2 utilized balsa coring in the decks and the hull sides (above the waterline). Buyers should use a moisture meter or perform a "tap test" around stanchion bases, the mast step, and the chainplates to ensure no water has compromised the core, leading to delamination.
• Daggerboard Trunk and Gaskets: The vertical keel mechanism is a high-wear area. The gaskets (often referred to as "keel flaps") that seal the bottom of the trunk to reduce turbulence can perish over time. Additionally, the lifting winch and cable must be inspected for fraying or corrosion, as a failure here can result in the keel becoming stuck or dropping unexpectedly.
• Mast Step Compression: Because the 6.9 is fractionally rigged with significant tension, the area beneath the mast step should be checked for sagging or hairline cracks in the fiberglass, which may indicate a compressed core or a failing support post.
• Rudder Blade: The original rudder was designed for performance, but as a composite part, it is prone to moisture ingress and subsequent "wicking" into the rudder post. Owners often check for swelling or cracking along the leading and trailing edges.

Community & Resources

While the S2 6.9 does not have a dedicated standalone class association as large as the S2 7.9, it is warmly embraced by the broader S2 sailing community. Owners frequently congregate within the S2 7.9 Class Association forums and technical archives, as the two boats share many design philosophies and hardware specifications. Additionally, the heritage of the boat is preserved through the larger S2 Yachts and Tiara Yachts enthusiast networks, which provide a wealth of information on original factory specifications and part sourcing.

The Verdict

The S2 6.9 is an ideal vessel for the sailor who prioritizes performance and trailerability over standing headroom and "condo-on-the-water" amenities. It remains a testament to the Slikkers family’s ability to build a production boat with custom-level attention to detail.

Pros:

• Exceptional Performance: One of the fastest and most agile boats in the 22-foot trailerable class.
• Build Quality: Superior fiberglass work and interior finishes compared to many 1980s contemporaries.
• Versatility: The lifting keel allows for shallow-water exploration and easy trailering without the need for a specialized deep-water slip.

Cons:

• Interior Constraints: The daggerboard trunk significantly bisects the cabin, and headroom is limited.
• Maintenance Intensity: The lifting keel mechanism and balsa-cored hull require more vigilant maintenance than a solid-glass, fixed-keel cruiser.
• Market Rarity: Fewer units were produced compared to the S2 7.9, making parts and sistership advice slightly harder to come by.