Contest 31 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Contest 31 commenced in 1971 and continued until 1974, with approximately 110 units built during this period. The yacht emerged from a time when Contest Yachts, founded by Ed Conijn, was transitioning from building Olympic-class dinghies to establishing its name in cruising yachts. Uus van Essen's design philosophy for the Contest 31 aimed for a "slightly more speedy hull design," reflecting the company's broader commitment to performance bluewater sailing, comfort, and safety.

During the 1970s, Contest Yachts maintained a meticulous manufacturing ethos, emphasizing robust construction and attention to detail. While the primary Contest 31 was designed by Uus van Essen, a notable variation, the Contest 31 HT, was also produced, designed by Dick Zaal, and was often regarded as a more performance-oriented "racer" version. The standard Contest 31, however, remained a testament to solid Dutch craftsmanship, with its hull and deck constructed from solid fiberglass.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Contest 31 is widely regarded as a good-natured tourer, prioritizing stability and comfort over outright speed. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 12.87, she is not a light-air flyer but performs reasonably well in moderate to strong winds. This ratio suggests a yacht that needs a bit more breeze to get going but will then carry its sail comfortably.

A significant characteristic of the Contest 31 is its exceptional stability, underscored by a high ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.53. This substantial amount of ballast, combined with a fin keel and skeg-hung rudder, contributes to a very stiff and stable boat that can stand up to heavy weather with confidence. Owners and reviewers frequently describe her as a "strong seaworthy cruiser" and "built like a tank," capable of handling demanding sea states.

Her displacement to length ratio, a high 365, further reinforces her identity as a heavy, traditional cruiser. This means the Contest 31 offers a comfortable motion in a seaway, cutting through waves rather than being tossed about. The skeg-hung rudder provides good directional stability, making for a steady helm and a predictable ride. The relatively small cockpit is noted by some owners as being ideal for open ocean sailing, enhancing safety by reducing the volume that could be inundated by a wave.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Contest 31 is characterized by a fully-fitted and well-built arrangement, typical of yachts from the early 1970s. The joinery is predominantly mahogany, a common and highly regarded material of the era, providing a classic and warm aesthetic. While not exceptionally spacious by modern standards, the layout is functional and designed for comfortable cruising.

The typical interior arrangement includes a V-berth forward, followed by a head compartment. The main salon usually features settees that can convert into berths, often with a folding table. The galley is generally positioned aft, providing essential amenities for cooking while underway or at anchor. Ample storage and adequate ventilation were also considerations in the design, contributing to the yacht's liveability for its size. The emphasis was on durable construction and efficient use of space, reflecting the builder's commitment to quality throughout the vessel.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Contest 31 consistently praise its robust construction and seaworthiness. Many attest to the boat's ability to handle challenging conditions, with anecdotal evidence even citing a Contest 31 enduring multiple knockdowns from substantial waves. The solid fiberglass hull and overall build quality contribute to a sense of security and a comfortable motion in a seaway, making it a favored choice for those seeking a reliable cruising platform.

However, like many yachts of its vintage, the Contest 31 may present some common maintenance considerations for prospective owners. Older Contest models can sometimes exhibit osmosis issues, a common concern for fiberglass boats of that era. Additionally, some screws in the interior were occasionally laminated over from the inside during construction, which can make certain repairs or modifications more challenging. Despite these potential points, the Contest 31 is generally considered a "good-natured tourer" that, depending on its condition, can be a cost-effective option for those willing to undertake some do-it-yourself maintenance.