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Exploring the 1987 S2 35C Sailboat

Mar 10, 2025

Lecture Notes: Tour of the 1987 S2 35C Sailboat "Freda Kai"

Introduction

  • Presenter: Jay, boat owner, accompanied by a friend
  • Boat Model: 1987 S2 35C, a 35-foot center cockpit sloop-rigged monohull sailboat
  • Key Specifications:
    • Draft: 6 feet
    • Air Draft: 50 feet
    • Beam: 12 feet 6 inches
    • Engine: 29 horsepower Volvo Penta
    • Capacity: Sleeps 6 people
  • Sailing Experience:
    • Jay has sailed nearly 12,000 nautical miles at an average speed of 5.9 knots.
    • Destinations: Sailed from Texas to Florida, the Bahamas, Newport Rhode Island, down the Caribbean chain, and back.
    • Solo and crew sailing experiences.

Boat Features

Aft Section

  • Dinghy Davit: Aftermarket and beefier for easier lifting.
  • Mini Swim Platform: Sturdy for use.
  • Solar Panels: 720 Watts, adjustable for optimal sun exposure.
  • Battery Capacity: 360 usable amp hours.

Center Cockpit

  • Benefits of Center Cockpit:
    • Provides additional space aft.
    • Offers better leverage and control over the mainsheet.
    • Higher and safer seating during heel.
  • Upholstery: All custom done by Jay, a professional upholsterer.
  • Cockpit downsides: Smaller than aft cockpits but offers more back support.
  • Instruments: Centrally located for ease of use.

Forward Deck

  • Smaller foredeck due to center cockpit design.
  • Anchor System: Uses a CQR anchor with smaller chain.
  • Deck Space: Limited by the storage of portable water and diesel.

Interior Layout

V-Berth

  • Sleeps two, with additional storage.
  • Convertible to a single bed for more space.
  • Well-ventilated with opening port lights.

Salon

  • Features a deck-stepped mast.
  • Navigation station with electronics and storage.
  • Converts to additional sleeping space.

Galley

  • Walk-through style, compact but efficient.
  • Features a refrigerator with freezer, microwave, and gimbaled stove.
  • Excellent use of space for storage and meal prep.

Aft Cabin

  • Primary sleeping quarters with a comfortable mattress.
  • Well-ventilated with side ports and an aft hatch.
  • Features emergency tiller access.

Boat Maintenance and Upgrades

  • Jay has invested in upholstery and other custom improvements.
  • Ongoing maintenance includes potential upgrades to the sail system, battery bank, and standing rigging.
  • Considering installing a water maker.

Sailing Experiences and Reflections

  • Jay has lived aboard for 7 years, traversing significant distances.
  • Biggest challenges include limited space for reefing controls and sail handling.
  • Enjoys the aft cabin and its comfort for long-term living.
  • Scariest Moment: Navigating a narrow cut near Hatchet Bay, Eleuthera.
  • Happiest Memory: Sailing around the Statue of Liberty and under the Brooklyn Bridge.

Future Plans

  • Summer plans in Grenada.
  • Options include returning to the US or exploring Central and South America.
  • Long-term aspirations to potentially upgrade to a larger boat with a similar layout.

Conclusion

  • Jay's tour offers a comprehensive look at life aboard a mid-sized monohull sailboat, emphasizing self-sufficiency, strategic upgrades, and the joy of nautical exploration.

Full transcript