S2 8.5 SD Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The S2 8.5 SD is defined by its stability and predictable motion in a seaway. With a displacement of approximately 8,000 pounds and a beam of 9' 4", the boat feels considerably larger than its 28-foot LOA suggests. The shoal draft configuration (drawing roughly 3' 11") naturally sacrifices some upwind pointing ability compared to its deep-keel sibling, but it compensates with a stiff, upright posture thanks to a healthy ballast-to-displacement ratio of nearly 39%.

In handling, the 8.5 SD is a moderate performer. It is not a light-air flyer; its hull form and weight require a decent breeze to overcome initial inertia. However, once established on a plane, it tracks exceptionally well due to the balanced hull shape designed by Edmunds. According to historical technical notes from S2 Yachts, the boat was designed to be a "family cruiser first," meaning it prioritizes forgiveness over raw speed. The rudder remains authoritative even when the boat is pressed, though the shoal keel can lead to increased leeway when pinching too close to the wind. Owners often report that the boat handles heavy weather with more grace than lighter cruisers like the Catalina 27, feeling "planted" in 20-knot gusts.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the S2 8.5 is where the Slikkers family’s background in high-end powerboats (which would eventually become Tiara Yachts) is most evident. The cabin is notable for its "European-influenced" aesthetic, which was a departure from the traditional Americana teak-heavy interiors of the time. It features a bright, open layout with a molded headliner that provides a clean finish and helps with insulation.

The layout is conventional but optimized for volume. It includes a V-berth forward, a main salon with a folding table, a compact galley to starboard, and a dedicated navigation station to port. One of the standout features of the 8.5 is the aft quarter berth, which provides a comfortable sleeping area for adults, a rarity in 28-footers of that vintage. The use of warm wood accents against white fiberglass modules creates a sense of space that is further enhanced by the generous headroom, which nears 6' 1" in the main cabin.

The S2 8.5 was produced alongside its deep-draft counterpart and served as the precursor to the S2 8.6, which utilized a nearly identical hull footprint but introduced a different deck mold and updated interior appointments. While the 8.5 SD focuses on accessibility to shallow harbors, the interior remains identical across both keel versions, ensuring that those who cruise in thin water do not have to compromise on living amenities.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the S2 8.5 SD with a focus on several aging-related technical areas:

• Keel-to-Hull Joint: Like many S2 models, the 8.5 can develop the "S2 Smile," a hairline crack at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. While often cosmetic, it can indicate the need for re-torquing the keel bolts or refreshing the sealant.
• Deck Delamination: The decks are balsa-cored. High-moisture readings around the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the mast step are common if the hardware hasn't been re-bedded periodically. Any "sponginess" underfoot is a sign of core rot.
• Portlight Leaks: The original plastic portlights are known to craze and leak over time. Many owners replace these with stainless steel or aluminum units to preserve the interior teak and prevent mold.
• Chainplate Inspection: The chainplates are bolted to bulkheads. It is essential to inspect the timber for water staining or rot, as persistent leaks at the deck level can compromise the structural integrity of the rig's attachment points.
• Propeller Shaft Alignment: On models equipped with the original Yanmar or Volvo diesel engines, check the engine mounts and shaft alignment. Older mounts can sag, leading to excessive vibration and wear on the cutlass bearing.

Community & Resources

The S2 8.5 benefits from a dedicated following of "S2 Enthusiasts." While the company no longer produces sailboats, the legacy is supported by the S2 Sailboats group, which maintains an informal archive of manuals and technical drawings. The Tiara Yachts historical archives also occasionally provide context for the construction methods used during the S2 era.

The Verdict

The S2 8.5 SD is an overbuilt, spacious, and sea-kindly cruiser that punches well above its weight class in terms of build quality. While it lacks the racing pedigree of its smaller sister, the S2 7.9, it offers a level of refinement and comfort that makes it an ideal choice for couples or small families focused on coastal exploration.

Pros:

• Superior build quality and "big boat" feel for a 28-footer.
• The shoal draft (3' 11") opens up a vast range of cruising grounds inaccessible to deeper boats.
• Bright, modern interior with excellent headroom and a functional aft berth.
• Lead ballast provides a stable, stiff ride.

Cons:

• Shoal keel limits upwind performance and increases leeway in light air.
• Balsa-cored decks require vigilant maintenance to avoid expensive rot repairs.
• Heavier than many competitors, requiring more wind to reach hull speed.