Contest 46 Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Contest 46 by Dick Zaal marked a significant offering in the bluewater cruising market of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Zaal's design philosophy for this model centered on crafting a "classic blue water cruiser" built to rigorous "Lloyds specifications", emphasizing an inherently sturdy and ocean-going vessel. During this period, Contest Yachts, operating as Conyplex under the leadership of Fritz Conijn, was evolving its focus from serial production to specializing in semi-customized luxury yachts typically ranging between 40 and 65 feet. This strategic shift allowed for heightened craftsmanship and greater personalization for individual owners. The Contest 46 notably featured a wing keel, showcasing Contest's innovative spirit, which included an early adoption of this technology after its success in the America's Cup. The hull itself was constructed with a round-bilged sandwich hull in GRP (polyester). While there were no distinct MkI or MkII designations, individual yachts often featured factory-installed options and upgrades, such as electric in-mast furling, hydraulic bow thrusters, and hard dodgers, allowing for a degree of customization in sail handling and on-deck comfort.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Contest 46 is designed for dependable performance and comfortable handling, particularly suited for extended cruising. With a displacement of 33,960 lbs and a length on the waterline of 38.92 feet, her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 576.4 classifies her as a heavy displacement vessel. This substantial weight contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway, prioritizing seakindliness over outright speed. Her ballast-to-displacement ratio, a significant 40.25% (13,668 lbs of ballast to 33,960 lbs displacement), indicates a very stiff and stable yacht, capable of standing up to significant wind and maintaining a comfortable angle of heel. While the exact total sail area is not readily available in the provided data to calculate a precise Sail Area to Displacement ratio, anecdotal evidence suggests she is a "keen sailor" offering "excellent performance in all weather conditions". Owners often report that the Contest 46 is "easily sailed single handed from the cockpit," a testament to its well-thought-out deck layout and robust sail handling systems, which frequently included in-mast furling and electric winches as options. Her theoretical hull speed is calculated at 8.36 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Contest 46 is known for its "spacious interior layout," designed to provide a "comfortable stay on board for 6 persons". Typically, these yachts feature three cabins and large heads, often including a "dedicated owners cabin". The quality of the build, consistent with Contest's reputation, ensured a high standard of finish. While specific details on wood trim or material use require individual boat inspection, the construction to Lloyds specifications underscores a commitment to durability and solid engineering throughout. Amenities such as air conditioning were often installed as options, further enhancing onboard comfort. On deck, the option of a factory-installed fixed dodger provided additional protection and comfort in the cockpit, an important feature for bluewater sailing.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Contest 46 consistently praise its robust construction and solid blue water capabilities. Many describe it as a "true example of a classic blue water cruiser," built to the high standards of "Lloyds specifications". The "sturdy way Contest yachts are used to" is a frequently cited strength, affirming its reliability as a "fantastic, strong, solid oceangoing design". The yacht's comfort and ability to handle various sea states are highly valued, with many noting that it "has only been strengthened and improved over time" through careful maintenance. The ease of handling, even for "solo sailed with ease" or by a couple, is a significant advantage highlighted by owners, making it suitable for both extended voyages and shorter cruises. No frequently reported common weaknesses or recurring maintenance issues were found in the available owner reviews, suggesting a generally high level of satisfaction with the model's design and build quality.