Contest 30 Mk I Information, Review, Specs

The Contest 30 Mk I emerged from a period of significant growth and innovation for Conyplex, which began its journey from a timber yard to a renowned yacht builder. Following the international success of their Contest 25, the company continued to expand its fiberglass cruising yacht offerings, 12]. The Contest 30 Mk I, with its production commencing in 1966, was part of this foundational era. Designer Uus van Essen conceived the Contest 30 Mk I as a moderate-weight sailboat engineered for stability and stiffness. While specific design philosophies for this model are not extensively documented, it aligned with Conyplex's overarching ethos of crafting first-class vessels with an emphasis on durable, well-found performance. The hulls were reportedly built in fiberglass in England, with the interior finishing completed by the Dutch builder. There were indeed variations during its production run, notably the Mk II version, also attributed to Uus van Essen by some sources.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Contest 30 Mk I exhibits sailing characteristics well-suited for a stable cruiser. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 13.58, she leans towards a more moderate performance profile, suggesting she may not be a light-air flyer but will handle a breeze with composure. Her Ballast to Displacement ratio is a notable 0.462, indicating a significantly stiff and stable boat capable of standing up to considerable wind and offering a good righting capability. This high ratio contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at around 255.95, places the Contest 30 Mk I firmly in the category of a moderate to heavy cruiser, reinforcing its reputation for solid construction and a steady ride rather than a light, nimble racer. Owners frequently describe the Contest 30 as a "great sail," "very responsive," and "solid as a rock," reflecting its predictable handling and robust feel on the water. Her full fin keel with a skeg-hung rudder provides good directional stability and a positive feel at the helm.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed diagrams are scarce, typical accommodations on a Contest 30 Mk I are designed for comfortable cruising. The interior generally features a classic layout for a boat of its size, including a V-berth forward, which can accommodate two individuals. A head compartment is usually found, along with a salon area that would typically include settees and a table. The galley, though compact, would offer essential amenities for meal preparation while cruising. Anecdotal evidence suggests the interior features "beautiful wood and Dutch tile," contributing to a classic and warm aesthetic. However, some owners have noted that the finish quality might not be consistently fine in all less visible areas behind the primary interior elements.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Contest 30 Mk I generally speak highly of its build quality and sailing performance. It is frequently praised for being "soundly built" and offering a "solid as a rock" feel, particularly in challenging conditions. Many find the boat "very responsive" and a "dream to sail". The robust construction and comfortable motion in a seaway are consistently highlighted as significant strengths.

However, like many older fiberglass boats, some common maintenance issues have been noted. Osmosis, a common condition in older fiberglass hulls, has been a concern for some owners, with instances of boats requiring treatment. There have also been reports of corroded keel bolts and their backings due to moisture in the bilge, an area requiring diligent monitoring in older vessels. While an isolated incident, one owner reported a traveler ripping out in the cockpit, though it was described as a simple repair. These points generally reflect the typical considerations for maintaining a well-loved vessel of its vintage.