Contest 28 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Contest 28 is characterized by a high displacement-to-length ratio, which provides a level of stability and momentum rarely found in modern 28-footers. Featuring a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, the boat tracks with remarkable precision, a hallmark of Dick Zaal Yacht Design. On the water, the vessel feels purposeful; it is not a light-air racer, but rather a "small big boat" that handles a blow with composure.

In heavy weather, the hull’s deep V-sections forward help to mitigate slamming when punching into a head sea. While the masthead sloop rig is relatively conservative by modern standards, the boat’s stiffness allows it to carry full sail longer than its lighter contemporaries. According to historical technical data from the designer, the boat was offered with different keel options, including a shallower draft for coastal cruising, though the standard 1.50-meter fin keel provides the best upwind performance. Owners frequently report that the steering is heavy but communicative, providing a sense of safety when the wind rises above 20 knots.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel of its era, the Contest 28 offers an impressively voluminous interior, largely due to its generous beam and relatively high topsides. The layout is traditional: a V-berth forward, a full-width head compartment (often featuring a pull-out sink), and a main salon with facing settees. The mahogany joinery is of a caliber that helped establish the "Dutch Quality" reputation the builder still enjoys today.

During its production run, several variations were introduced to optimize the living space. The most notable difference across the fleet is found in the galley and navigation station arrangements. Early models featured a more cramped galley, while later "Mark II" versions often incorporated more ergonomic storage solutions and improved lighting. The cabin offers approximately 1.85 meters (6'1") of headroom in the main salon, which was exceptional for a 28-foot boat in 1975. The presence of a dedicated quarter berth to starboard provides a secure bunk for off-watch crew during passages, a feature that reinforces its identity as a miniature offshore voyager.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Contest 28 should prioritize a thorough inspection of the following technical areas:

• Deck Delamination: Like many boats of this era, the Contest 28 used a balsa-cored deck. Moisture ingress around stanchion bases or the mast step can lead to core rot. Soft spots underfoot are a common "gotcha" that requires expensive surgical repair.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: While the construction is generally overbuilt, the keel bolts should be inspected for "weeping" or rust, which may indicate the need for re-torquing or gasket replacement.
• Original Engines: Many units were originally fitted with Volvo Penta MD-series engines. While robust, these are now reaching the end of their service life, and sourcing parts can be difficult. Buyers should check for excessive smoking or "Volvo drip" at the stern gland.
• Osmosis: While Conyplex was known for high-quality resin work, nearly any hull from the 1970s is susceptible to osmotic blistering if the gelcoat has not been protected with an epoxy barrier coat.
• Wiring and Plumbing: The original electrical panels and plumbing hoses are often outdated and may not meet modern safety standards, particularly concerning the gas (LPG) locker venting.

Community & Resources

The legacy of the Contest 28 is preserved by the Contest Yachts Owners Association, which provides a platform for owners to share technical manuals and restoration advice. This global community is particularly active in the Netherlands and Germany, where many of these boats still cruise the North and Baltic Seas. Technical drawings and historical specifications are often archived through the designer’s portfolio at Dick Zaal Yacht Design.

The Verdict

The Contest 28 remains a premier choice for the solo sailor or couple looking for a seaworthy, well-built classic that punches well above its weight class in terms of safety and interior comfort.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: Robust fiberglass layup and high-end mahogany interior joinery.
• Sea-Kindliness: Heavy displacement and skeg-hung rudder provide stability in rough conditions.
• Headroom: Surprising interior volume for a sub-30-foot vintage cruiser.
• Timeless Design: Dick Zaal’s lines remain aesthetically pleasing and functional.

Cons:

• Light Air Performance: Struggles to maintain speed in under 8 knots of wind due to its weight.
• Aging Systems: Original engines and wiring often require significant investment.
• Maintenance of Brightwork: The extensive use of exterior teak (on some models) and interior wood requires consistent upkeep.