The Lagoon 52 F 2012 vs Lagoon 52 S 2012 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story: intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department - Lagoon 52 F 2012 at 52,0 ft versus Lagoon 52 S 2012 at 52,0 ft. At 57 386 lbs and 57 386 lbs respectively, both sit in a similar weight class - either should pair comfortably with most mid-size SUVs and half-ton trucks, though always confirm your specific tow rating with the motor added.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 80 hp, the Lagoon 52 S 2012 has a 23-hp advantage over the Lagoon 52 F 2012's 57-hp ceiling - enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Lagoon 52 S 2012 carries 262 gallons versus 58 gallons in the Lagoon 52 F 2012. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 15 passengers - a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
Both boats sit in a similar displacement bracket - 57 386 lbs for the Lagoon 52 F 2012 and 57 386 lbs for the Lagoon 52 S 2012. Comparable displacement means broadly similar seakeeping behaviour and load capacity, though hull form and ballast ratio will still produce noticeably different sailing characteristics.
Both boats draw a similar depth - 5,1 ft and 5,1 ft respectively. Marina access and anchorage options should be broadly equivalent between the two.
The Lagoon 52 F 2012 uses fractional_rig_sloop rigging. Helm style differs too: the Lagoon 52 F 2012 uses a Single wheel versus a 1 wheel on the Lagoon 52 S 2012. Wheel helms give better leverage and visibility on larger boats; tillers offer direct feedback and simplicity on smaller ones. For auxiliary power the Lagoon 52 S 2012 carries a 80-hp engine against 57 hp on the Lagoon 52 F 2012. Motoring range and ability to punch through a foul current or enter a tight marina under power will favour the more powerful installation.
Bottom line: The Lagoon 52 F 2012 and Lagoon 52 S 2012 are closely matched on paper. A sea trial on both in representative conditions is the only reliable way to find which one suits your sailing style, home port, and intended cruising ground.