Sailing Performance & Handling
The Skorpion II MS is a heavy-displacement vessel, and its performance reflects its steel pedigree. It is designed for momentum and sea-kindliness rather than exhilarating light-wind speed. With a high displacement-to-length ratio, the boat exhibits a motion that is predictable and comfortable in a seaway, resisting the "jerky" motion often associated with lighter fin-keel yachts. Owners frequently report that the vessel "tracks as if on rails," a characteristic attributed to its long keel or deep skeg-protected rudder.
Under sail, the Skorpion II MS typically requires a stiff breeze (Force 4 or higher) to truly wake up. While it may struggle to point as high as a modern performance cruiser, it excels on a reach, where its weight provides a stable platform. The motor-sailer aspect is critical here; the boat is intended to be used with the engine in light airs or when punching into a head sea, where the substantial fuel capacity and reliable diesel powerplant complement the sail plan. Reviewers from the German magazine Yacht have historically noted that the Skorpion series offers an immense sense of security, making it a preferred choice for sailors transitioning from coastal hopping to blue-water exploration.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the Skorpion II MS is characterized by the warmth of traditional mahogany or teak joinery, typical of Northern European craftsmanship. Because the MS variant often includes a raised deckhouse or pilothouse, the "main salon" experience is frequently split between a lower cozy seating area and an upper navigation and steering station with 360-degree visibility. This layout is particularly advantageous for watch-standing in cold or rainy climates, allowing the helmsman to operate the vessel without exposure.
The Skorpion II (approximately 11 to 12 meters in length) was the mid-sized sibling in a family that included the smaller Skorpion I and the larger Skorpion III and IV models. While the Skorpion II MS generally features a two-cabin layout—a V-berth forward and a master cabin aft—some custom builds were configured with different bunk arrangements to accommodate larger crews. Headroom is generally excellent, often exceeding 6'3" in the main cabin, a luxury afforded by the hull's generous volume. The galley is typically "U-shaped" and positioned to be secure while under heal, reflecting the boat's purpose as a serious offshore cruiser.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of a Skorpion II MS must prioritize a specialized steel hull survey. While Feltz yachts were built to exceptionally high standards, the primary enemy of any steel vessel is "inside-out" corrosion.
- Bilge and Tankage: Inspect the areas beneath the water tanks and fuel tanks. In many older Skorpions, steel tanks were integrated into the hull or placed in tight tolerances where condensation can gather. Any sign of standing water or flaking rust in the deep bilge requires immediate investigation.
- Insulation Quality: Early models were sometimes insulated with materials that can absorb moisture over time. Check behind cabinetry for signs of "sweating" or trapped moisture against the hull skin, which can lead to hidden corrosion.
- Teak Deck Integration: Some Skorpions were fitted with teak-overlay decks. If the teak was screwed directly into the steel deck rather than bonded, these screw holes are notorious for allowing water to seep between the wood and steel, leading to localized thinning of the deck plating.
- Rudder and Skeg: Ensure the rudder bearings and the junction where the skeg meets the hull are sound. Given the boat's age, the sacrificial anodes must be checked to ensure the galvanic protection system has been maintained, preventing electrolysis.
Community & Resources
The Skorpion community is deeply rooted in Northern Europe, particularly among German and Dutch blue-water sailors. The most authoritative resource for technical drawings and original build specifications remains the Feltz Werft shipyard itself, which continues to operate in Hamburg and provides support for their legacy fleet. While there is no single international "class association" in the mold of a racing yacht, the "Feltz-Skorpion" owners often congregate on regional cruising forums to share refit advice regarding steel maintenance and repowering.
The Verdict
The Skorpion II MS is a "vessel" in the truest sense of the word—a rugged, dependable, and safe platform for those who value security over speed. It is an ideal choice for a couple planning to transit the Northwest Passage or the Southern Ocean, where hitting a submerged object or a piece of ice in a fiberglass boat would be catastrophic.
Pros:
- Inherent Safety: The steel hull offers immense impact resistance and structural longevity.
- All-Weather Comfort: The pilothouse configuration is a game-changer for long-distance watches in poor weather.
- High Craftsmanship: Built at a time when "over-engineering" was the shipyard standard.
Cons:
- Maintenance Intensive: Requires constant vigilance regarding paint systems and corrosion prevention.
- Light Air Performance: Heavy displacement means the engine is often required when winds drop below 10 knots.
- Market Niche: Its traditional aesthetics and steel construction appeal to a specific subset of long-distance cruisers, which can make resale a slower process.
