Contest 35 S Information, Review, Specs

The Contest 35 S was introduced in 1988 as a successor to the earlier Contest 35, with production running until 1998. During this decade, Contest Yachts, under the guidance of the Conijn family, was recognized for its strategic shift towards specializing in semi-customized yachts and its unwavering dedication to building robust, performance-oriented bluewater cruisers. The company’s philosophy, often characterized as a "Dutch approach to performance bluewater sailing," emphasized meticulous attention to design and engineering to enhance the overall sailing and ownership experience.

Dick Zaal, the prolific designer behind all Contest sailboats of that era, crafted the 35 S with a focus on creating a vessel capable of both coastal and offshore sailing. While the specific design philosophy for the 35 S emphasized a conservative yet highly capable cruiser, Contest Yachts themselves were known for innovation, including an early adoption of the wing keel concept. Notably, the Contest 35 S was available with a wing keel version, reducing its maximum draft from 5.75 feet to 4.42 feet, offering a versatile option for shallower cruising grounds. A total of 42 units of this model were built, each reflecting the renowned Contest quality.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Contest 35 S demonstrates a harmonious balance of performance and stability, making her a pleasure to sail across various conditions. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 18.95, she exhibits good light-air performance for a cruiser of her size, suggesting she can move well even in lighter breezes. Her ballast to displacement ratio of 0.422 is indicative of excellent stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up to a good breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio, around 249.3, places her in the moderate displacement category, signifying a yacht that is more performance-oriented than heavier traditional cruisers, yet still possesses the robust build for offshore work.

Anecdotal reports consistently praise the Contest 35 S for its stable and balanced sailing behavior, outstanding seakeeping, and easy handling characteristics. These qualities make the yacht a well-regarded choice for those seeking a seaworthy vessel that offers both responsive control and a secure feel on the water. The hull is robustly constructed from solid fiberglass, and the rudder is a practical skeg-hung design, a smart feature for a cruising boat that provides protection and reliability.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Contest 35 S is characterized by a straightforward yet thoughtful layout, showcasing the quality craftsmanship expected from Contest Yachts. While specific headroom figures are not available, reviews highlight a spacious accommodation that is tastefully appointed, reflecting a conservative yet elegant Dutch design aesthetic.

The typical interior arrangement would include a comfortable V-berth forward, a functional head, a well-appointed salon, a practical galley, and often a quarter berth or two. Online descriptions and reviews frequently point to a good-sized cockpit complementing the interior space. The finish quality often features a significant use of wood trim, contributing to a warm and classic yachting ambiance, a hallmark of Contest's attention to detail and material selection. Storage is generally ample, a crucial feature for a boat designed for extended cruising, and ventilation is typically well-considered for comfort in various climates.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Contest 35 S frequently commend the yacht's solid construction and the overall high quality for which Contest Yachts is known. The excellent layout, good-sized cockpit, and spacious accommodations are consistently highlighted as strengths, contributing to a comfortable and enjoyable sailing experience. The boat's outstanding seakeeping and easy handling are also points of praise, reinforcing its reputation as a capable and reliable cruiser. Many owners have diligently maintained their vessels, showcasing the enduring appeal and robust build of the Contest 35 S. While individual boats may have unique considerations due to age and usage, the collective sentiment emphasizes the Contest 35 S as a well-regarded and seaworthy yacht.