Contest 42 CS Information, Review, Specs

The Contest 42 CS was introduced to the market in 2013, marking a significant addition to Contest Yachts' range of luxury sailing vessels. The design, penned by Georg Nissen, aimed to create a modern performance bluewater cruiser, emphasizing exceptional seakeeping abilities and a blend of sporty handling with full touring suitability. This philosophy aligns perfectly with Contest Yachts' long-standing ethos, which, under the leadership of the third-generation Conijn family, prioritizes semi-custom yachts, bespoke luxury, and robust bluewater capability through meticulous attention to design and engineering.

During its production, the Contest 42 CS earned the nickname "Option 42" due to the extensive customization available to owners. This included up to 45 variations for the interior layout and five distinct cockpit configurations, allowing owners to tailor the yacht precisely to their sailing and cruising needs. Furthermore, the yacht offered various rigging options, including choices between aluminum or carbon masts, and in-mast or in-boom furling systems, enhancing its versatility.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Contest 42 CS is engineered to deliver a superior sailing experience, balancing stability with performance. With a displacement of 29,762 pounds and a waterline length of 38.19 feet, the yacht has a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 238.4, positioning it as a moderate displacement vessel capable of both comfortable cruising and respectable performance. Her ballast-to-displacement ratio of around 0.377 (37.7%) contributes to a stable and stiff motion, allowing her to stand up well to wind.

The reported sail area of 1,086 square feet, in conjunction with her displacement, yields a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 18.06. This relatively high ratio suggests good performance, particularly in lighter air conditions. Owners and reviewers consistently describe the 42 CS as a very solid boat, free from creaks or groans, and possessing exceptional seakeeping abilities. She offers a "big boat feel" and is praised for her ease of handling and trimming, often configured with electric winches and furling systems for shorthanded sailing. While noted as not being the nimblest on the water, her overall sailing characteristics prioritize comfort, stability, and the ability to cover distances efficiently.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Contest 42 CS is highly customizable, with a significant number of layout variations available to cater to individual owner preferences. Typical arrangements include a spacious owner's cabin forward and either two double cabins or one double and one single guest cabin aft, along with a well-appointed salon, galley, and head(s).

The finish quality is consistently described as first-class, featuring vacuum-bonded eco-decking, high-specification hardware from top brands, and clever design detailing throughout. Natural light is a prominent feature, enhancing the spacious feel of the interior. Owners can specify materials such as oak and white surfaces, allowing for a personalized aesthetic. While the yacht offers impressive interior volume, some reviews have noted a potential lack of cross-ventilation as a minor design consideration.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and marine journalists alike consistently laud the Contest 42 CS for its robust construction, comfort, and exceptional seakeeping abilities, which contribute to a solid and reassuring motion offshore. Its design for effortless and shorthanded handling, often equipped with electric winches and furling systems, is a frequently praised feature, making it accessible for a wide range of sailors. The extensive customization options, allowing for personalized interior layouts and rigging, are also highly valued by discerning buyers.

The 42 CS was recognized as the European Yacht of the Year in the luxury class in 2014, further cementing its reputation for excellence. While generally celebrated for its performance and comfort, some anecdotal observations suggest that while stable and capable, she might not be the most agile boat in certain conditions. A recurring comment, though not universally cited as a "problem," points to the limited cross-ventilation in some interior configurations. Overall, the Contest 42 CS is seen as a premium, well-engineered yacht that delivers on its promise of a high-quality bluewater cruising experience.