Contest 40 Information, Review, Specs

While many 40-footers of its era prioritized interior volume through wide beams and flat bottoms, the Contest 40 retained a more traditional hull form with deep-V sections forward and a substantial skeg-hung rudder. This design choice ensures the boat remains "sea-kindly," a term used by owners to describe its ability to slice through a chop without the jarring motion typical of flatter-bottomed modern production boats. The Contest 40 was eventually succeeded by the Contest 40S, which utilized the same hull but offered updated rigging and minor interior refinements, and it paved the technical way for the larger Contest 43.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Contest 40 is characterized by its predictable, stable motion at sea. With a high ballast-to-displacement ratio, the boat carries its canvas well into the upper teens of wind speed before requiring a reef. Dick Zaal’s design philosophy emphasized a balanced helm; as a result, the boat tracks exceptionally well, even when pressed in a gust. The presence of a skeg-hung rudder provides significant protection against debris and adds a layer of redundancy that long-distance sailors value.

In terms of handling, the Contest 40 is not a light-air racer. Its displacement means it requires a Breeze (10-12 knots) to truly find its stride, but once moving, it maintains impressive momentum through tacking and heavy swells. Many units were fitted with the then-revolutionary wing keel, a technology Contest Yachts pioneered in production cruisers shortly after its success in the America’s Cup. This allows for a shallower draft without a catastrophic loss of upwind performance, making it an ideal choice for the shallow waters of the Dutch coast or the Bahamas.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Contest 40 is a masterclass in traditional Dutch joinery, typically finished in high-quality teak. The center-cockpit layout is the defining feature of the living space, as it allows for a magnificent, full-width master cabin aft. This cabin usually includes a large double berth and private en-suite access, providing a level of privacy and comfort rarely found in aft-cockpit boats of this size.

The main saloon is designed for both entertaining and safety at sea, featuring handholds integrated into the cabinetry and deep, secure settees. The galley is typically located in the walkthrough to the aft cabin, a "corridor" style layout that provides a safe bracing position for the cook while the boat is heeled. Two primary interior variations exist: a standard version with a V-berth forward and a "Sport" (40S) version that occasionally featured different cabinetry finishes and a slightly more open layout. The 40S variant also often featured a taller rig to appeal to owners seeking better performance in lighter Mediterranean conditions.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a Contest 40, the most critical area is the condition of the teak decks. Like many high-end yachts from the 1980s and 90s, the teak was originally screwed and bonded to the fiberglass. Over decades, these screws can allow moisture to penetrate the balsa or foam core of the deck. Potential buyers should use a moisture meter or look for signs of delamination and "weeping" from the headliner inside.

Another area for scrutiny is the fuel and water tanks. These are often made of stainless steel and can be difficult to access or replace if they develop pinhole leaks due to stagnant water or poor-quality fuel. Additionally, the rudder bearings and the seal on the propeller shaft should be checked; because the 40 uses a robust skeg-hung setup, any stiffness in the steering can indicate an aging bearing that is labor-intensive to replace. Finally, examine the original standing rigging; many Contest 40s still carry their heavy-duty original masts, but the wire rigging itself is often past its 10-to-15-year service life.

Community & Resources

The Contest community is exceptionally well-supported through the Contest Yachts Owners Association. This group maintains a technical repository of manuals, wiring diagrams, and hull-specific data that is invaluable for maintaining older models. Owners frequently gather for "Contest Cups" and rallies, primarily in Northern Europe, where the brand maintains a cult-like following.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: Built to Lloyd’s standards with premium materials and craftsmanship.
• True Bluewater Capability: The center-cockpit and skeg-hung rudder offer superior safety for ocean crossings.
• Comfortable Aft Cabin: Offers a level of luxury and privacy superior to most 40-footers of its era.
• Timeless Aesthetics: The Dick Zaal lines remain elegant and functional decades after production.

Cons:

• Maintenance Heavy: Aging teak decks can be a significant and expensive repair item.
• Light Air Performance: The heavy displacement hull can feel sluggish in winds under 10 knots.
• Access Issues: The "corridor" galley and aft-cabin layout can make access to some mechanical systems cramped.