Contest 34 S Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Contest 34 S is a quintessential heavy-displacement cruiser, characterized by its steady motion and predictable handling in a seaway. With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the heavier side of the spectrum, the boat does not "surf" or accelerate rapidly in light airs; however, once the wind reaches 12–15 knots, the hull finds its groove. The design features a deep fin keel and a substantial skeg-hung rudder, a combination that provides exceptional directional stability. This tracking ability is frequently noted by owners as a primary benefit during long offshore passages, as it reduces the workload on both the helmsman and the autopilot.

Under sail, the 34 S feels stiff and secure. According to technical archives from the Dick Zaal Design Office, the hull was shaped to maintain a high ballast ratio—often exceeding 40%—which allows the boat to carry its canvas longer than lighter contemporary designs before requiring a reef. The sloop rig is stout, typically featuring a masthead configuration that handles a large genoa well. While it may not win around-the-buoys races against modern performance cruisers, its ability to maintain a consistent 5.5 to 6 knots in heavy weather while the crew remains dry in the cockpit is its true selling point.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Contest 34 S is a testament to the woodworking heritage of the Conijn family. Stepping below, the immediate impression is one of warmth and solidity, with extensive use of high-quality teak joinery that is rarely found in modern production boats of this size. The aft-cockpit layout of the "S" model allows for a more open and traditional saloon compared to its center-cockpit sibling, which often felt segmented by the engine compartment and walkway.

The layout typically features a V-berth forward with ample storage, followed by a full-width head compartment. The main saloon consists of a U-shaped settee to port and a straight settee to starboard, with a large folding table between them. A key variation in the 34 S is the galley and navigation station arrangement; the galley is usually positioned to starboard of the companionway, while a generous chart table sits to port, leading back to a sizeable quarter berth. Headroom is a notable highlight, with the builder managing to maintain nearly 6'3" (1.9m) throughout the main cabin. Because the 34 S shares its hull with the center-cockpit Contest 34, buyers may encounter minor variations in cabinetry and tankage placement depending on the specific year of production and the original owner’s requirements.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a Contest 34 S, the primary focus should be on the longevity of its original systems and the condition of its sandwich-constructed decks.

• Deck Delamination: While the hull is solid fiberglass, the decks utilize a balsa or foam core for stiffness. Over four decades, moisture can ingress through poorly bedded deck hardware (cleats, stanchions, or the toe rail). A percussion test (hammer sounding) or a moisture meter is essential to identify soft spots, particularly around the mast step.
• Original Teak Decks: Many 34 S models were delivered with teak-over-fiberglass decks. If these have not been replaced or professionally refurbished, the screws may have breached the sub-deck, leading to the aforementioned core saturation. Replacing a teak deck on a boat of this value can be a significant percentage of the purchase price.
• Rudder Skeg Integrity: The skeg-hung rudder is a safety feature, but the mounting bolts and the lower pintle can suffer from galvanic corrosion or wear. Buyers should check for excessive "play" in the helm and inspect the skeg-to-hull joint for any signs of stress cracking.
• Engine Service Life: These boats were often fitted with Volvo Penta or Bukh diesel engines. While robust, parts for older Bukh units can be expensive and difficult to source. Check for evidence of "weeping" at the manifold or signs of cooling system scale.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Contest 34 S benefit from one of the most organized owner associations in Europe. The Contest Yachts Owners Association provides a wealth of technical data, original manuals, and a forum for discussing specific maintenance tasks. Furthermore, Contest Yachts maintains an active heritage archive, occasionally assisting owners of classic models with original blueprints or construction details, a rarity in the world of vintage yachting.

The Verdict

The Contest 34 S is a "sailor's sailboat," built for those who value the journey as much as the destination. It trades the nimble speed of modern light-displacement boats for a level of security and craftsmanship that is increasingly hard to find. It is an ideal candidate for a couple or small family looking for a classic yacht capable of crossing oceans or comfortably exploring coastal waters.

Pros:

• Exceptional Dutch build quality with Lloyd’s Register certification.
• Superb heavy-weather tracking thanks to the skeg-hung rudder.
• High-quality teak interior that remains durable and aesthetically pleasing decades later.
• Significant headroom and storage for a 34-foot vessel.

Cons:

• Heavy displacement results in sluggish performance in light winds (under 10 knots).
• Potential for high maintenance costs if the original teak decks are failing.
• The aft-cockpit design, while traditional, lacks the massive "great cabin" feel of the center-cockpit variant.