Contest 32 CS Information, Review, Specs

The Contest 32 CS entered production in 1978, continuing until 1985, and was a product of Conyplex (now Contest Yachts), a builder renowned for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship since its founding in 1959. Designed by Dick Zaal, the vessel was intended as a pure cruiser, though its initial design adhered to the International Offshore Rule (IOR) standards, indicating a focus on performance in its class. During this era, Contest Yachts, under the leadership of Fritz Conijn, was transitioning towards specializing in semi-customized yachts, a move that emphasized higher levels of craftsmanship and bespoke features. The 32 CS was built to stringent Lloyd's rules, underscoring the company's unwavering dedication to robust construction and safety.

The model was offered with versatility in mind, available in both sloop and ketch rig configurations, catering to different sailing preferences. A notable variation included an option for a shallow draft of 4.25 feet. Its distinctive center cockpit design, a hallmark of many Contest yachts, became a key feature, balancing sailing performance with enhanced living spaces below deck.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 31.82 feet and a waterline length of 25.66 feet, the Contest 32 CS presents a substantial platform for its size. Its design, characterized by a round-bilged hull, a long fin keel, and a skeg-hung rudder, contributes to a well-mannered performance on the water.

Analyzing its key performance ratios provides further insight into its capabilities. The ballast to displacement ratio, at approximately 0.446 (6,380 lbs ballast for a 14,300 lbs displacement), is notably high, indicating excellent stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to a considerable amount of wind. However, its sail area to displacement ratio of around 10.60 suggests a conservative sail plan relative to its displacement. While this may translate to less spirited performance in very light airs, it strongly points to a boat designed for comfortable and controlled sailing in heavier conditions, prioritizing stability and ease of handling over outright speed. The displacement to length ratio, a high 377.85, further confirms its identity as a heavy, traditional cruiser, promising a comfortable motion in a seaway rather than a light, performance-oriented ride. This combination of characteristics results in a vessel that is often described as predictable and balanced, instilling confidence in its crew, especially on longer passages.

Accommodations and Layout

The Contest 32 CS is widely praised for its remarkably spacious and warm interior, often considered among the most voluminous cruisers in its class. The accommodations typically feature up to seven berths across two cabins, with an impressive amount of headroom throughout the vessel.

The layout commonly includes a V-berth forward, followed by a head compartment. The main salon is generous, offering ample seating and a comfortable dining area. A key feature is a large aft cabin, often configured with a double and a single bunk, providing a private and substantial sleeping area. The interior joinery is consistently described as high-quality teak, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere that reflects Contest's reputation for meticulous finish. Storage is generally ample, a crucial consideration for extended cruising. While specific details on ventilation are not consistently available, the overall design emphasizes a comfortable living environment, making the Contest 32 CS a popular choice for those valuing interior comfort on a 32-foot platform.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Contest 32 CS frequently commend the boat's solid construction and its pedigree as a product of the renowned Dutch Contest Yard, with its build quality adhering to Lloyd's rules. The comfort and spaciousness of the interior are consistently highlighted as major strengths, providing a livable platform for cruising.

However, some owners have noted that the conservative sail plan, as indicated by its low sail area to displacement ratio, can lead to a desire for increased sail area, particularly for those seeking more lively performance in lighter winds. Another recurring observation, especially concerning older models, relates to the original teak decks, which, after decades of service, can sometimes become "marode and undicht" (rotten and leaky), necessitating significant maintenance or replacement. Despite these potential considerations, the Contest 32 CS maintains a loyal following, valued for its robust bluewater capabilities and comfortable, well-appointed living spaces.