Contest 38 S Information, Review, Specs

The Contest 38 S entered production in 1980 and continued until 1992, with 90 units built during its run. The design, attributed to Dick Zaal, reflects the era's emphasis on seaworthy, well-appointed cruising yachts. During this period, Contest Yachts, under the guidance of Fritz Conijn, was transitioning from serial production towards specializing in semi-customized yachts, though the 38 S predates their primary focus on vessels over 40 feet. Nevertheless, the 38 S embodies the core Contest ethos of building robust, well-found performance bluewater cruisers with meticulous attention to design and engineering, 15].

The 38 S model, specifically denoting the centre-cockpit configuration, stands apart from its aft-cockpit sibling, the Contest 38. While primarily offered as a ketch, a sloop rig option was also available. Furthermore, the vessel offered keel variations, with a standard fin keel providing a maximum draft of 6.42 feet and an optional wing keel reducing the draft to 4.5 feet, enhancing access to shallower anchorages.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Contest 38 S is unequivocally a heavy-displacement cruiser, designed for comfort and stability rather than outright racing speed. With a length overall of 37.25 feet and a waterline length of 29.83 feet, her substantial displacement of 19,285 pounds gives her a displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 324. This high ratio signifies a boat that will carry sail well in a breeze, offer a comfortable motion in a seaway, and be forgiving to handle, though not particularly spirited in light air.

Her sail area to displacement ratio of about 12 suggests that while she is well-powered for her displacement, she will perform optimally in moderate to strong winds and will require a good breeze to achieve her hull speed of 7.32 knots. The ballast-to-displacement ratio of nearly 39.4% is a strong indicator of her inherent stability and stiffness, enabling her to stand up to significant wind without excessive heeling. The fin keel provides good upwind performance and directional stability, while the skeg-hung rudder offers excellent protection and robust control in varying conditions. Owners consistently describe the Contest 38 S as a very seaworthy yacht, making it a dependable choice for bluewater passages.

Accommodations and Layout

The defining feature of the Contest 38 S is its centre-cockpit configuration, which allows for a remarkably spacious and private aft cabin, often with en-suite facilities. This layout, combined with the substantial beam of 12.0 feet, contributes to a luxurious and comfortable interior atmosphere.

Owners praise the "beautiful craftsmanship of the interior," characterized by high-quality cabinetry and joinery, typically in teak, complemented by teak and holly soles. The interior is intelligently designed with "ample stowage space and headroom," creating a smart and effective layout particularly well-suited for an owner's couple seeking extended cruising comfort. Typical arrangements often include a forward V-berth, a main salon with settees and a dining area, a well-equipped galley, and a navigation station, leading aft to the private master cabin. The overall finish and attention to detail reflect Contest Yachts' reputation for quality and refined luxury.