Contest 40 S Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

At the heart of the Contest 40S's performance is a heavy-displacement hull designed for comfort and predictability rather than raw light-wind speed. With a displacement-to-length ratio often hovering in the "heavy cruiser" category, the boat excels when the wind picks up, maintaining a steady, upright posture while lighter vessels are forced to reef. Dick Zaal Yacht Design emphasizes a hull form with a deep forefoot and a substantial skeg-hung rudder, a combination that provides exceptional directional stability and minimizes "hunting" when running downwind in a following sea.

The 40S was frequently equipped with a Scheel-style wing keel, which allowed for a shallower draft (typically around 1.7 meters) without sacrificing the righting moment found in deeper fin-keel versions. Owners often report that the boat feels "bulletproof" in a blow, with a motion that is far gentler on the crew than modern flat-bottomed designs. While it may struggle to find its legs in under 8 knots of true wind, once the breeze fills in, the 40S tracks like it is on rails, making it a favorite for solo sailors or couples who prioritize security over tactical agility.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Contest 40S is a masterclass in traditional Dutch joinery, defined by its extensive use of high-grade teak and a layout that maximizes the benefits of its center-cockpit configuration. The defining feature is the cavernous aft owner's cabin, which offers a level of privacy and headroom rarely seen in 40-footers of this vintage. Most configurations feature a large island berth or offset double, accompanied by a dedicated en-suite head.

Forward of the main salon, which features a robust U-shaped settee and a sea-kindly galley to starboard, lies a guest V-berth and a second head. This two-cabin, two-head arrangement was the standard for the 40S, though the builder offered various levels of customization for the navigation station and cabinetry. A hallmark of the "S" evolution was improved ventilation and light; Contest integrated more opening ports and deck hatches compared to the earlier 40, addressing criticisms of "basement-like" interiors common in older center-cockpit designs. The craftsmanship is such that even decades later, these interiors rarely show the creaks or structural fatigue common in lighter-built production boats.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Contest 40S is built to a standard that exceeds most of its contemporaries, potential buyers should focus on several high-signal maintenance areas:

• Teak Deck Longevity: Contest yachts of this era featured thick, high-quality teak decks, but they were traditionally fastened with screws. Over 30 years, these screws can provide paths for moisture to reach the balsa or foam core. Inspect for "popped" bungs and signs of delamination or soft spots.
• Rudder Bushings: The skeg-hung rudder is a safety asset, but the bearings and bushings at the heel-pintle can wear over time, leading to play in the steering system. This often requires specialized machining to repair properly.
• Engine Access and Maintenance: While the Volvo Penta or Yanmar engines typically installed are reliable, the engine room insulation in the 40S can degrade, leading to increased noise levels in the cabin. Prospective buyers should check the state of the soundproofing and the condition of the sea-cocks, which are numerous in this design.
• Chainplate Inspection: Given the boat’s blue-water pedigree, many 40S models have seen significant offshore miles. The stainless steel chainplates, while robust, should be inspected for crevice corrosion, particularly where they pass through the deck.

Community & Resources

Contest owners are supported by a dedicated international community, largely centered around the Contest Yachts Owners Association. This group maintains technical archives that are invaluable for refitting older models like the 40S. Additionally, because Contest yachts are often serviced back at the Medemblik yard in the Netherlands, there is a strong "factory-backed" knowledge base for original parts and structural drawings.

The Verdict

The Contest 40S is a "sailor's sailboat" for those who value longevity and safety over modern trends. It is a vessel designed to cross oceans in comfort, offering a build quality that few modern production yards can match. While it may require a higher maintenance budget to keep its teak and systems in top order, its resale value and reputation remain among the highest in the 40-foot cruising market.

Pros:

• Exceptional structural integrity and Lloyd’s-certified construction.
• Superior aft-cabin privacy and interior craftsmanship.
• Extremely stable and predictable handling in heavy weather.
• High-end hardware and components used throughout the original build.

Cons:

• Traditional teak decks can be expensive and labor-intensive to replace.
• Heavy displacement results in sluggish performance in light air.
• Limited engine access compared to modern aft-cockpit designs.