Sparkman & Stephens S&S 47 Sloop Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the S&S 47 is a powerful, "long-legged" cruiser that excels on reaches. With a displacement-to-length (D/L) ratio of approximately 266 and a ballast ratio of 45%, the boat is remarkably stiff and capable of carrying sail well into the upper wind ranges. Owners often report that the hull’s sharp entry and low deadrise allow it to slice through heavy chop without the pounding typical of modern, flat-bottomed designs. According to technical reports from the Sparkman & Stephens Association, the Stevens 47 version typically utilizes a cutter rig, which provides exceptional flexibility in heavy weather and light-air performance that keeps the boat moving when others have started their engines.

The handling is noted for its predictability; however, the elongated fin keel and skeg-hung rudder—while excellent for tracking in a seaway—can make close-quarters maneuvering under power a challenge. As noted in editorial tests by Cruising World, the boat has a significant turning radius and can be prone to backing into the wind when in reverse, leading many owners to retrofit bow thrusters for modern marina life.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the S&S 47 is designed for life at sea rather than marina-hopping. The Stevens 47 layout is famous for its three-stateroom configuration, featuring a large, separate aft master cabin with a dedicated head and access from both sides of the companionway. This layout was considered revolutionary for the 1980s and continues to be a favorite for liveaboard families. High-quality teak joinery is a standard feature, with solid teak-and-holly soles and ample handholds throughout the cabin.

A notable variation is the Swan 47, which, while sharing the 47-foot length, often featured a more performance-oriented layout including pilot berths in the saloon. The Swan variant was also produced in a centerboard version (the Swan 47-2, or NYYC 48) to cater to East Coast U.S. sailors seeking shallower drafts. In both the Stevens and Swan versions, the galley is typically located in a secure passageway to port, providing a safe "working" area even in a heavy seaway, while the engine is centrally located under the cockpit for optimal weight distribution.

Popular Mentions & Media

The S&S 47 (specifically the Stevens 47) gained modern fame through the voyage of the boat Totem. Behan and Jamie Gifford and their three children spent over a decade circumnavigating on their 1982 Stevens 47, documenting the boat’s durability and maintenance in detail for Cruising World and their extensive cruising blog. Their experiences have solidified the model's status as the quintessential "family bluewater boat." Additionally, the Swan 47 remains a cult favorite in European racing, frequently appearing in the "S&S Class" of the Rolex Swan Cup.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

• Chainplates: In older Stevens 47 models, the chainplates were often fiberglassed into the hull structure. This can lead to hidden corrosion where the metal meets the resin; surveyors recommend a thorough inspection, and many owners have undergone the invasive process of cutting them out and replacing them with external or accessible internal tangs.
• Deck Core: Like many balsa-cored designs of this era, the S&S 47 is susceptible to "spongy" decks if moisture has penetrated through unsealed hardware. Particular attention should be paid to areas around the windlass and stanchion bases.
• Fuel and Water Tanks: The original black iron or aluminum fuel tanks are nearing the end of their service life and may develop leaks. In the Stevens 47, these tanks are often located under the cabin sole or settees, making replacement a labor-intensive project.
• Hull Flex/Oil Canning: In very high-mileage examples, some "oil canning" or waviness has been noted near the bow. Experienced owners of the model, such as the crew of Totem, have addressed this by reinforcing the interior hull with additional glass and stringers.
• Rudder Bearings: The large skeg-hung rudder exerts significant pressure on its bearings. Prospective buyers should check for play in the rudder stock, as worn bearings can lead to heavy steering or "thumping" at sea.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and historical records is the Sparkman & Stephens Association, which maintains a registry of owners and original design drawings. Owners of the Swan variant also utilize the Classic Swan Association, which provides a wealth of information on refitting S&S-era Nautor hulls.

The Verdict

The S&S 47 is a "sailor’s boat" that prioritizes seaworthiness and speed over interior volume. It remains one of the few older production yachts that is consistently considered a viable platform for a safe, comfortable circumnavigation in the modern era.

Pros:

• Exceptional Motion: The hull design and heavy displacement provide a gentle motion in a seaway that modern light-displacement boats cannot match.
• Pedigree: Designed by the most famous naval architecture firm of the 20th century, ensuring strong resale value and aesthetic timelessness.
• Layout: The three-cabin, two-head layout (especially on the Stevens 47) is ideal for families or those hosting guests.

Cons:

• Maintenance Intensity: Extensive teak decks and interior joinery require significant upkeep.
• Maneuverability: The long keel and high displacement make the boat difficult to handle in tight slips without a bow thruster.
• Refit Costs: Many units require "second-generation" refits, including tankage and chainplate replacement.