S2 7.3 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The S2 7.3 is a masthead sloop characterized by a conservative sail plan and a relatively high displacement for its length, typically hovering around 3,250 pounds. With nearly 34% of its weight dedicated to ballast (approximately 1,100 pounds in a fixed lead keel), the boat exhibits excellent stiffness and a high degree of primary stability. While it is not a "light-air flyer"—a fact reflected in its moderate Sail Area/Displacement ratio—it excels in breezy coastal conditions where its hull weight allows it to punch through a chop that would stall lighter 24-footers.

In terms of handling, the 7.3 is known for its predictable tracking and forgiving nature. The rudder is well-balanced, providing enough feedback to keep the helmsman engaged without becoming tiring during long beats to windward. Because the boat was designed during an era when "pocket cruisers" were expected to handle genuine weather, the 7.3 feels secure even when the rail nears the water. Owner anecdotes often highlight the boat's "small ship" motion, noting that it lacks the nervous, twitchy motion common in modern, flatter-bottomed designs. While it shares some DNA with the shorter S2 7.0 and the later S2 7.9 racer, the 7.3 is distinctly more cruiser-oriented, trading pure speed for sea-kindliness.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the S2 7.3 is where the design truly distinguished itself from its 1970s contemporaries. Arthur Edmunds utilized the boat’s 8-foot beam to create a layout that feels remarkably spacious for a 24-foot hull. Most notably, the boat offers approximately 5'10" of headroom in the main cabin, a feat rarely achieved in this size range without creating a top-heavy or aesthetically awkward coachroof.

The cabin typically features a V-berth forward, followed by a surprisingly functional enclosed head—a major selling point for families. The main salon includes a settee that converts into additional sleeping quarters and a compact galley near the companionway. S2 employed a full fiberglass interior liner, which not only added structural rigidity but also resulted in a clean, low-maintenance aesthetic. While the 7.3 remained largely consistent throughout its production run, later models often featured upgraded teak trim and improved upholstery, reflecting S2's move toward the premium "Tiara-adjacent" market positioning. Sibling models like the S2 8.0 (26 feet) and the S2 9.2 (30 feet) utilized similar design languages, but the 7.3 remains the most celebrated for maximizing utility within a trailerable (with a heavy-duty vehicle) or easily slipped footprint.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an S2 7.3 should prioritize a thorough inspection of the deck and structural components, as these boats are now entering their fifth decade of service.

• Deck Core Saturation: Like many production boats of this era, the S2 7.3 uses a balsa-cored deck. Poorly bedded stanchions, chainplates, or deck organizers can allow water to penetrate the core. Buyers should check for "spongy" areas around high-load hardware.
• Compression Post Support: The mast is deck-stepped, supported by a compression post that transfers the load to the keel. If water has leaked into the bilge or the base of the post, the structural support can rot or compress, leading to a "frown" in the deck or difficulty tuning the rigging.
• Rudder Delamination: The foam-filled fiberglass rudders are prone to water ingress over time. Inspect for weeping rust stains or swelling at the seams, which may indicate internal saturation and potential freeze-thaw damage.
• Chainplate Inspection: The 7.3 uses stainless steel chainplates that are bolted through the bulkheads. These should be inspected for crevice corrosion, particularly where they pass through the deck.

Community & Resources

The legacy of S2 Yachts is preserved by a dedicated community of owners who value the brand's American-built heritage. While there is no longer a factory-backed sailboat division, the S2 Yachts Owners group remains a primary hub for technical advice and restoration projects. Additionally, because many components were sourced from major marine suppliers of the time (such as Kenyon spars or Harken hardware), finding replacement parts remains relatively straightforward for the resourceful owner.

The Verdict

The S2 7.3 is an exceptional entry-level cruiser that offers the build quality of a much larger yacht. It is ideally suited for a couple or a small family looking for a sturdy, attractive vessel for weekend coastal hopping.

Pros:

• Exceptional headroom (5'10") for a 24-foot boat.
• High-quality lamination and structural "over-building" typical of the Slikkers era.
• Enclosed head provides privacy not found on many contemporary daysailers.
• Forging, stable handling in heavy air.

Cons:

• Heavier displacement makes it less competitive in light-air racing.
• Vulnerable to balsa-core rot if deck hardware has not been maintained.
• Inboard engine access (on models so equipped) can be cramped.