Contest 40 A-B Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Contest 40 A-B in 1972 marked a pivotal moment for Conyplex as they expanded their range beyond smaller successful models like the Contest 25. The yacht was designed by Dutch naval architect Uus van Essen, who aimed for a "slightly more speedy hull design" compared to many of her contemporaries, making her relatively slender for her size. This design philosophy was in line with Contest Yachts' broader commitment to producing performance-oriented blue-water cruisers that emphasized both comfort and safety.

During this era, Contest Yachts, under the guidance of its founder Ed Conijn, was building a reputation for meticulous craftsmanship and robust construction, often utilizing fiberglass techniques learned from early exposure in the United States. The 40 A-B benefited from this ethos, designed and built to endure challenging offshore conditions. While the Contest 40 A-B had a distinct production run, it is important to note that a later, different model, the Contest 40S, was designed by Dick Zaal in the early nineties, featuring its own set of design characteristics and typically a center cockpit configuration.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Contest 40 A-B exhibits characteristics of a capable and stable cruiser, balancing performance with comfort. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 17.6, she suggests decent performance in light to moderate winds, though she is not optimized for pure racing. Her Ballast to Displacement ratio, at around 42%, indicates good stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up to a significant amount of wind and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway. This high ballast ratio is a hallmark of many sturdy blue-water designs, contributing to a secure feel offshore.

The Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at approximately 349, places the Contest 40 A-B firmly in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser. This substantial displacement, combined with a "slimmer" hull design for its time, contributes to its reputation as a solid blue-water vessel known for its ability to maintain speed and comfort in varying sea states. Owners often praise Contest yachts of this vintage for their solid construction and comfortable handling, particularly when making longer passages.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Contest 40 A-B are not widely documented, Contest Yachts of this era were known for their quality joinery and thoughtful use of space, reflecting the "Dutch approach to performance bluewater sailing" that prioritizes both comfort and safety. Generally, a yacht of this size and vintage would typically feature a traditional cruising layout, likely including a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert to berths, a galley, and a navigation station. A head compartment would also be standard.

Owners of Contest yachts from this period often describe the interiors as "comfortably fitted out" and "very solid," indicating a durable and well-finished living space, even if the layouts might be considered unique by modern standards. The emphasis would have been on robust construction and practical functionality for extended periods at sea, using quality materials consistent with Contest's reputation for luxury and durability.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Contest 40 A-B, and Contest yachts of similar vintage, frequently commend the builder's commitment to robust construction and seaworthiness. The boats are generally regarded as "solid blue water cruisers," capable of undertaking significant voyages with a sense of security and comfort. This reputation for being well-built and safe often contributes to a strong sense of pride among Contest owners. While specific model-specific common problems or delights for the 40 A-B are not extensively detailed in general forums, the overall sentiment regarding Contest yachts of the period points to a high level of owner satisfaction with their enduring quality and sailing capabilities. The dedication to thoughtful development, design, and engineering in every detail of Contest yachts aims to enhance the overall ownership experience.