Contest 58 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Contest 58 emerged during a pivotal period for Contest Yachts, as the company, under the guidance of Fritz Conijn, was transitioning 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, appealing to discerning owners. The collaboration between Douglas Peterson, celebrated for his America's Cup designs, and Dick Zaal, Contest's experienced in-house talent, aimed to combine performance pedigree with bluewater cruising capabilities. Pieter Beeldsnijder's involvement ensured a refined interior aesthetic, aligning with Contest's philosophy of meticulous attention to every aspect of design and engineering to enhance the sailing and ownership experience. The Contest 58, with its limited production run of three units, exemplifies the bespoke approach taken by the shipyard during this era, building yachts that were robust, well-found, and designed for serious offshore use.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Contest 58 is engineered for capable and comfortable passage-making, evident in its design ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 16.8, she is a moderately powered vessel, suggesting a balanced performance profile that is neither overly tender nor sluggish in light air. Her Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.406 indicates good stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up to a significant amount of wind and maintain an upright, comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 272 classifies her as a moderately heavy cruiser, contributing to her solid feel and ability to handle challenging conditions with grace.

Equipped with a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, the Contest 58 offers efficient hydrodynamic performance and predictable handling. The cutter rig, chosen for its versatility, breaks down the sail area into smaller, more manageable units, a common choice for offshore sailing vessels as it simplifies sail handling, especially in heavy weather. Owners consistently note the Contest 58's reputation for "fast passage-making in great comfort," underscoring her ability to cover distances efficiently while providing a stable and secure platform for her crew.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific details of every interior finish may vary due to the semi-custom nature of Contest yachts, the Contest 58 generally follows a well-regarded layout for a yacht of her size, optimized for extended cruising comfort. The interior styling by Pieter Beeldsnijder would have ensured a luxurious and practical living space, utilizing high-quality materials and thoughtful joinery characteristic of Contest Yachts.

A typical arrangement on the Contest 58 includes an owner's cabin located aft, providing a spacious and private retreat, often with an ensuite head. Forward of the main bulkhead, there are typically two guest cabins, offering comfortable accommodations for additional crew or family. Furthermore, a dedicated crew cabin is situated forward, highlighting the yacht's capability for longer voyages and the option for professional assistance. The general impression of Contest interiors from this era is one of robust construction, excellent ventilation, ample storage, and a focus on both aesthetic appeal and practical liveability for long periods at sea.