Contest 34 Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Contest 34 falls within the early decades of Contest Yachts' history, a period when the builder, originally Conyplex, focused on producing expertly built, first-class vessels. The company, founded by Ed Conijn in 1959, had already established a reputation for quality through models like the successful Contest 25. The Contest 34, launched in 1976, embodied this commitment to robust construction and performance. It was designed by Dick Zaal, a prominent Dutch naval architect known for creating seaworthy and comfortable yachts. Zaal's philosophy for the Contest 34 emphasized stability and a protected feel, even in rougher conditions, aiming for a boat that was "good-natured" and dependable.

While the standard Contest 34 featured a fin keel with a skeg-hung rudder, providing good maneuverability, there was also a "Contest 34 S" variant built with a long keel, which would offer enhanced directional stability at the expense of some agility. This reflected a thoughtful approach to meeting varied sailing preferences within the model's production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Contest 34's design ratios underscore its identity as a heavy-displacement, stable cruising yacht rather than a light-air performer. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 12.03, the boat requires a decent breeze to get moving efficiently. However, this characteristic also contributes to its admirable behavior in heavier weather, where it is known to be solid and capable.

Its impressive ballast-to-displacement ratio of 43.2% highlights exceptional stiffness and stability, enabling the Contest 34 to stand up well to strong winds and provide a secure, comfortable ride. This high stability is a key factor in its reputation as a seaworthy cruiser. Further emphasizing its robust nature is a displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 346.3, classifying it as a heavy displacement vessel. This translates into a comfortable motion in a seaway, making long passages more tolerable, a quality frequently praised by owners. Anecdotal evidence suggests the Contest 34 feels protected even in adverse conditions and offers a "good-natured" handling experience, reassuring for both experienced and less seasoned sailors. It has been noted as offering a level of comfort surpassing 90% of similar sailboat designs.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Contest 34 is celebrated for its classic spaciousness and traditional aesthetic, often featuring warm mahogany finishes. Owners frequently praise the generous amount of space available below deck, which contributes to its appeal as a family cruiser. The general layout typically includes a functional salon, a galley, and comfortable sleeping arrangements. A notable feature is the "own world in the aft ship," suggesting a distinct and private aft cabin or berth area. However, some owners have noted that the headroom in the aft cabin can be somewhat limited.

The build quality extends to the interior, with the Contest 34 typically featuring solid laminate construction throughout, without balsa core, contributing to its durability and structural integrity. While specific details on ventilation and storage may vary between individual boats and their upkeep, the overall impression is one of a well-appointed and practical cruising interior designed for extended stays aboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently commend the Contest 34 for its solid construction and robust build quality, often highlighting its full laminate hull with no balsa core as a significant advantage for longevity and peace of mind. Many appreciate its seaworthiness and comfortable motion, particularly in rougher conditions, making it a trusted vessel for coastal cruising and even more ambitious passages. The boat is frequently recommended as an ideal entry-level boat for families due to its forgiving nature and ample interior space.

However, common considerations noted by owners often revolve around maintenance and the boat's design compromises. Given its age, issues with original deck fittings developing leaks are not uncommon, a problem for which designer Dick Zaal himself reportedly recommended re-bedding with epoxy filler. While lauded for its stability, the Contest 34 is generally not considered a racing boat, with some owners noting features, such as an unusual behind-the-mast furling mainsail arrangement on some models, that can detract from outright performance. The low headroom in the aft cabin is another frequently mentioned minor drawback. Despite these points, the overwhelming sentiment from owners is that the Contest 34 represents a safe, comfortable, and capable cruising yacht.