Contest 44 CS Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Contest 44 CS falls within a period of significant evolution for Contest Yachts, a company with a heritage spanning over six decades and guided by three generations of the Conijn family. During its production run from 2000 to 2006, Contest Yachts, then under the guidance of Fritz Conijn, had firmly transitioned its focus from serial production to specializing in semi-customized yachts, typically ranging between 40 and 65 feet. This strategic shift allowed for greater customization and a higher level of craftsmanship, directly influencing the detailed construction of models like the 44 CS.

The design by Georg Nissen underscores Contest's "Dutch approach to performance bluewater sailing," which prioritizes meticulous attention to every aspect of design and engineering to enhance the sailing and ownership experience. While specific variations like MkI or MkII are not widely noted for the 44 CS, the builder's semi-custom ethos during this era meant that individual boats could feature tailored options and specifications, enhancing their uniqueness.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Contest 44 CS is engineered for both robust performance and stable handling, a characteristic reflected in its key design ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 19.31, the 44 CS indicates a boat capable of respectable performance across a range of wind conditions, likely offering good speed in lighter airs while still being manageable as the breeze picks up. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of approximately 0.36 signifies a solid level of stability, allowing her to stand up to a significant amount of canvas and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway.

Further emphasizing its blue-water capability, the Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 241 places the Contest 44 CS in the medium-heavy displacement category. This suggests a yacht designed for comfortable cruising with a motion that prioritizes stability and load-carrying capacity over extreme light-air speed, while still maintaining efficient passage-making capabilities. Anecdotal evidence from owner reviews frequently praises the 44 CS for its comfortable and fast passage-making, aligning with a "sporty touring boat" description. Its round-bilged, vacuum-infused GRP hull construction contributes to both stiffness and hull integrity, ensuring a smooth and responsive ride.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts of the Contest 44 CS can vary due to its semi-custom nature, the general arrangement is designed to maximize comfort and functionality for extended cruising. Typical configurations often feature a spacious owner's cabin, frequently located aft, providing privacy and ample storage. The salon typically includes comfortable seating arrangements, a dinette, and a well-appointed galley. Forward, guests usually find a V-berth cabin, often with an en-suite head, or a dedicated guest cabin with twin berths.

The interior finish quality of Contest yachts from this era is generally regarded as high, characterized by the use of quality wood trim, often teak, combined with expertly finished fiberglass components. Storage is typically generous throughout the boat, catering to the needs of long-distance cruisers. Ventilation is addressed through numerous opening hatches and ports, contributing to a comfortable living environment at anchor or in warmer climates. The water capacity of 132 US gallons further supports extended periods away from shore.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Contest 44 CS frequently commend its robust build quality and exceptional seakeeping abilities, often highlighting its suitability for demanding offshore passages. Many praise the yacht for its "craftsmanship, comfort and innovation," which are key attributes consistently associated with Contest yachts. The boat is often described as being "well maintained by her current owner" and continuously upgraded, reflecting the pride of ownership and the yacht's enduring value. The integration of options such as hydraulic in-mast furling, hydraulic genoa furling, generators, and electric winches found on many models further enhances ease of handling and comfort for owners. The global community of Contest owners is well-supported, fostering a positive ownership experience that often includes dedicated after-sales service.