Sailing Performance & Handling
The S2 9.2 A is characterized by its stability and predictable handling, making it an ideal coastal cruiser for those who value comfort over raw racing speed. With a displacement of approximately 9,800 pounds and a ballast-to-displacement ratio hovering around 40%, the boat is notably stiff. This high ballast ratio allows the 9.2 A to carry its canvas longer into building breezes than many of its lighter competitors. According to an editorial evaluation by Practical Sailor, the boat’s performance is respectable for a dedicated cruiser, tracking well to windward thanks to its nearly five-foot fin keel, though a shoal-draft version was also produced for thin-water regions.
The hull's moderate beam and relatively deep forefoot contribute to a motion through the water that is significantly kinder than the flat-bottomed designs that would follow in the 1990s. While it is not a "light-air flyer," the S2 9.2 A manages to maintain momentum in a chop, a trait often attributed to its sturdy construction and Arthur Edmunds’ conservative hull lines. Owners often report that the boat feels balanced on the helm, particularly when the headsail is properly reefed, avoiding the heavy weather-helm common in some aft-cockpit boats of this displacement.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the S2 9.2 A was a primary selling point, often described as having the "fit and finish of a 35-footer." Leveraging the 10' 3" beam, Edmunds created a layout that feels remarkably open. The most common configuration features a traditional V-berth forward, followed by a full-width head—a luxury on a 30-foot boat—that provides a physical buffer between the sleeping quarters and the main salon. The salon utilizes a settee to starboard and an L-shaped dinette to port, which often converts into a double berth.
Materials used in the interior reflect Slikkers’ commitment to quality, featuring extensive use of oiled teak or walnut and high-grade fabrics. The galley is typically positioned aft to starboard, featuring a deep sink and icebox, while a proper navigation station sits to port. Variations in the model primarily involve the 9.2 C (Center Cockpit), which utilized the same hull but moved the engine and cockpit midships to allow for a private aft cabin. While the "C" model offered more privacy, the "A" model is generally preferred by traditionalists for its larger cockpit and more intuitive interior flow.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of an S2 9.2 A should focus their inspections on several areas common to boats of this vintage. The deck is balsa-cored, and like many hulls from the 1980s, moisture ingress around stanchion bases, chainplates, and the mast step can lead to core rot. A thorough percussion test or moisture meter reading of the deck is essential.
Another common point of concern is the "S2 Smile," a hairline crack that can appear at the forward leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. While often a cosmetic symptom of the hull flexing slightly under load, it requires inspection to ensure the keel bolts are torqued correctly and the fiberglass at the sump remains structurally sound. Additionally, the original plumbing used gate valves rather than modern seacocks; most surveyed boats will have had these replaced, but any remaining original valves should be considered an immediate upgrade priority. Finally, verify the condition of the engine; while many units featured the reliable Yanmar diesel, some early models were equipped with Volvo Penta units, for which parts can be more expensive and difficult to source.
Community & Resources
Owners of the S2 9.2 A benefit from a dedicated and technically proficient community. The S2 9.2 Owners Association serves as a central hub for sharing maintenance tips and original manuals. Furthermore, because S2 Yachts transitioned into the luxury powerboat brands Tiara and Pursuit, there is a lingering corporate legacy of support that is rare among defunct sailboat brands. Technical discussions and historical documentation are frequently archived by the S2 Sailboats enthusiast groups, providing a wealth of "tribal knowledge" regarding specific hull repairs and rigging upgrades.
The Verdict
The S2 9.2 A remains a highly regarded used boat for its robust construction and timeless aesthetics. It bridges the gap between the lightweight production boats of the 1970s and the heavier, more expensive blue-water cruisers.
Pros:
- Superior build quality and interior joinery compared to many contemporary 30-footers.
- Highly stable and "stiff" sailing characteristics, providing confidence in heavy air.
- Spacious interior layout with a surprisingly large head and functional galley.
- Strong secondary market value and a dedicated owner community.
Cons:
- Balsa-cored decks are susceptible to moisture if deck hardware is not re-bedded.
- The boat is relatively heavy, resulting in average performance in very light wind conditions.
- Aging original systems (electrical/plumbing) usually require modernizing for reliable cruising.
