Contest 40 S Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Contest 40 S falls within a pivotal period for Contest Yachts. Under the leadership of Fritz Conijn, the builder had transitioned from serial production to specializing in semi-customized yachts, a move that allowed for greater craftsmanship and tailored solutions for individual owners. The 40 S, with 30 units built during its production run, reflects this commitment to quality and bespoke luxury.

Dick Zaal's design philosophy for the Contest 40 S aimed to refine Contest's offerings, creating a vessel that was "finer and lower than her predecessors" yet still maintained substantial interior volume. This approach aligned with Contest's broader ethos of building robust, well-found performance bluewater cruisers with a meticulous attention to design and engineering., 15] The construction to Lloyds specifications further underscored the builder's dedication to high standards of integrity and safety.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Contest 40 S is characterized by its balanced sailing attributes, designed for comfortable and confident passage-making. With a displacement of 26,000 lbs and a waterline length of 30.8 feet, she is a moderately heavy displacement cruiser. The robust ballast of 10,000 lbs, representing approximately 38.5% of her total displacement, contributes significantly to her stiffness and stability, enabling her to stand up well to a breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. This robust build aligns with Contest's reputation for yachts emphasizing comfort and safety.

Her reported total sail area of 767 square feet, combined with a masthead sloop rig, suggests a sail plan optimized for reliable performance across a range of wind conditions. Owners have noted her "ideal sailing characteristics" and describe her as being "easy to handle with two persons, as well as single-handed," showcasing her accessibility for a variety of crew configurations. The Contest 40 S is well-regarded for her combination of comfort, safety, and sea-keeping abilities.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite her performance aspirations, the Contest 40 S delivers a "well thought out and spacious interior," a hallmark of the builder's approach. The interior, often finished in classic Burma teak, exudes a timeless marine elegance. As a center-cockpit design, the Contest 40 S typically features a generous aft cabin, which often includes an en-suite head with a separate shower, a highly prized amenity for extended cruising.

The layout generally comprises a comfortable saloon, a functional galley, and two cabins, offering four primary berths with potential for additional capacity. Skylights in each area contribute to good natural light and ventilation. The emphasis on high build quality extends to the interior, where the thoughtful development and engineering of every detail are designed to enhance the ownership experience.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Contest 40 S consistently praise her solid construction and the comfortable motion she provides in various sea states, a testament to her robust design as a bluewater cruiser. Many examples are found in very good, turn-key condition, indicating dedicated care by their owners. The ease of handling, even for a couple or single-handed sailor, is a frequently lauded characteristic. The spacious deck layout and well-maintained teak decks are also commonly highlighted positive aspects. While specific recurring issues are not widely reported in owner forums or reviews, the general consensus reinforces the Contest 40 S's reputation as a reliable, comfortable, and well-built yacht, capable of both coastal enjoyment and more ambitious offshore voyages.