Contest 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Contest 27 is characterized by its heavy displacement and a high ballast-to-displacement ratio (typically exceeding 35%), which translates to a stiff, predictable motion in a seaway. Unlike many modern light-displacement cruisers that "skitter" over the surface, the 27 sits deep in the water, slicing through chop with minimal slamming. Its underwater profile features a deep fin keel and a substantial skeg-hung rudder, a combination that provides exceptional directional stability.

In his archival notes, designer Dick Zaal emphasizes that the hull was intended for North Sea conditions, where tracking and sea-kindliness are paramount. Owners frequently report that the boat feels significantly larger than 27 feet when the wind picks up, holding its canvas long after lighter boats have been forced to reef. While it is not a "light air" specialist—the wetted surface area is relatively high—the Contest 27 comes alive in Force 4 and above. The tiller steering is communicative but heavy, reflecting the boat's solid engineering. It is a "momentum boat"; once it reaches its hull speed of approximately 6.2 knots, it maintains its pace through gusts with little drama.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 27-foot vessel designed five decades ago, the interior of the Contest 27 is remarkably functional, benefiting from the high-quality joinery that Contest Yachts has maintained throughout its history. The layout typically includes a V-berth forward, a central saloon with two settee berths, and a compact galley and navigation station flanking the companionway.

The MkI version is noted for its classic, somewhat more utilitarian feel, whereas the MkII maximized the "big boat" sensation by refining the headroom and cabin lighting. The use of solid mahogany and teak veneers throughout the cabin is a hallmark of the Conyplex yard, providing a warmth and durability rarely seen in modern boats of this size. Most versions feature a dedicated head compartment located between the saloon and the forward cabin, which, while snug, offers a level of privacy that transformed the boat from a daysailer into a legitimate coastal trekker. The storage capacity is also impressive, with deep lockers and under-berth bins designed for owners intending to spend weeks, rather than just weekends, aboard.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Contest 27 should approach the purchase with an eye toward the age of the fiberglass and original mechanical systems. While the hulls are thick, they were built before the industry fully mastered resin-to-glass ratios.

1. Osmotic Blistering: Like many yachts built in the 1970s, the Contest 27 is prone to osmosis. A survey should include a moisture meter test, particularly around the waterline and the rudder skeg.
2. Deck Core Integrity: The decks are often sandwich construction using balsa or foam. Water ingress around older deck hardware (cleats, stanchion bases) can lead to delamination and "soft spots."
3. Engine Longevity: Many original 27s were fitted with Farryman or older Volvo Penta diesel engines. While reliable in their day, parts are increasingly difficult to source. Buyers should prioritize hulls that have been repowered with modern Yanmar or Beta Marine units.
4. Rigging and Chainplates: The robust rig is a strength, but the original stainless steel chainplates are now well beyond their intended lifespan and should be inspected for crevice corrosion.
5. Rudder Bearings: The skeg-hung rudder is sturdy, but the bushings and bearings can wear, leading to vibration or "play" in the tiller that requires haul-out service to rectify.

Community & Resources

The Contest 27 is supported by a dedicated community of Dutch and international owners. The most prominent resource is the Contest Yachts Owners Association, which provides technical support and archival documents for legacy models. Because the boat was built by a yard that transitioned into the superyacht tier, the technical pedigree of the 27 is often better documented than other "orphan" brands from the same era.

The Verdict

The Contest 27 is a "little ship" rather than a mere sailboat. It is an ideal choice for the traditionalist who values build quality and offshore safety over flat-out speed or modern open-plan interiors. While it requires the maintenance typical of a vintage GRP vessel, its structural integrity remains a benchmark for the industry.

Pros:

• Exceptional build quality with high-grade Dutch joinery.
• Extremely seaworthy for its size, capable of handling heavy weather with ease.
• Excellent tracking and stability due to the skeg-hung rudder and deep fin keel.
• Strong resale value among enthusiasts of classic GRP cruisers.

Cons:

• Heavier and slower in light air compared to modern 27-foot designs.
• Original engines and plumbing systems likely require significant updating.
• Maintenance of the high-quality wood interior can be labor-intensive.