Contest 48 CS Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Contest 48 CS emerged from a rich heritage stretching back to 1959, when Ed Conijn founded Conyplex, the precursor to Contest Yachts. Over six decades and three generations, Contest has evolved from building Olympic-class dinghies to specializing in semi-custom luxury yachts, always maintaining a commitment to quality and a "Dutch approach to performance bluewater sailing." During the production run of the 48 CS, Contest Yachts focused on meticulous attention to detail and robust construction techniques, using solid fiberglass for both the hull and deck to ensure durability.

The Contest 48 CS was the collaborative design of esteemed naval architects Dick Zaal and Georg Nissen. Designers: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 10, 11, 12 Dick Zaal is particularly known for his designs of "proper designed heavy displacement yachts" that are "ideal for the long distance cruiser, taking a lot of stores and gear," emphasizing a cruising pedigree that prioritizes comfort and carrying capacity over outright racing speed. Georg Nissen, also a prolific designer of cruising yachts, brought his expertise to the collaboration, further solidifying the 48 CS's credentials as a seaworthy and well-proportioned vessel. This partnership ensured the 48 CS was engineered for reliable performance and enduring comfort, reflecting Contest's manufacturing ethos of building robust, well-found performance bluewater cruisers.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Contest 48 CS is engineered for thoughtful handling and dependable performance on long passages. With a length overall of 48.39 feet and a waterline length of 40.68 feet, she maintains a good cruising speed. Her displacement of 33,730 pounds and a bulb keel, drawing 6.73 feet, contribute to a stable and seakindly motion. The ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 38% indicates good inherent stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a fair amount of wind and maintain its sail plan effectively.

The displacement-to-length ratio (DLR) of approximately 224 categorizes the Contest 48 CS as a moderate-to-heavy cruiser. This suggests a yacht with a comfortable motion in a seaway, capable of carrying significant stores for extended voyages, rather than a light, high-performance racer. While the specific total sail area was not readily available, the vessel's cutter rig configuration is known for its versatility, offering various sail combinations to adapt to changing wind conditions. Owners frequently praise the 48 CS for its good sailing performance and ease of handling, often attributed to modern features like hydraulic furling sails for both the genoa and main, and electric winches, which make managing the sail plan achievable even for a small crew.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Contest 48 CS is typically characterized by a classic teak finish, reflecting the builder's commitment to luxurious craftsmanship and a warm, inviting atmosphere. While specific headroom figures are not provided in the primary data, the design emphasizes spaciousness and ample stowage, essential for extended cruising.

Most Contest 48 CS models feature a well-appointed three-cabin layout, offering considerable privacy for owners and guests. This arrangement usually includes a comfortable V-berth forward, a spacious main salon, and typically two to three heads, often with separate shower cabins, providing excellent amenities at sea. The galley is generally comprehensively equipped, often featuring an electric cooker, oven, and microwave, catering to the needs of liveaboards and those undertaking long-term cruising. Custom two-cabin configurations were also available, allowing for even larger private spaces for owners and their guests. Thoughtful design ensures good ventilation and natural light throughout the living areas, enhancing comfort during extended stays onboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Contest 48 CS consistently laud its robust construction, thoughtful design, and reliable performance, cementing its reputation as a favoured bluewater cruiser. Many examples are noted for being "extremely well kept" and "immaculately maintained," reflecting the high-quality initial build and the dedication of their owners. The yacht's comprehensive equipment, often including hydraulic furling sails, electric winches, and bow thrusters, is frequently highlighted as a major strength, significantly enhancing ease of handling for a small crew. The Contest 48 CS is widely regarded as an "excellent yacht" and a luxury cruising vessel with a CE certification class (A), signifying its capability for navigating in open ocean conditions. Its appeal lies in its blend of bespoke luxury, exceptional performance, and robust bluewater capability, fulfilling the dreams of discerning sailors.