Design and Construction
Zaal's 40 S carries a lead-ballasted fin keel with a 38.46 ballast-to-displacement ratio and a 397 displacement-length ratio that confirm a heavy, seakindly hull form. The 32-foot 10-inch waterline and 6-foot 3-inch draft give a hull speed near 7.4 knots. The skeg-hung rudder and masthead-sloop rig with 767 square feet of sail area round out a conservative offshore configuration.
Rig and Handling
The masthead sloop drives a sail-area-to-displacement ratio of 13.98, modest by racing standards but adequate for a 24,200-pound cruiser. The 1.71 capsize ratio and 40.82 comfort ratio describe a vessel tuned for stability offshore, and the skeg-hung rudder adds protection in following seas.
Accommodations
Below, the 40 S is full-bodied and spacious despite the lower profile. The plan provides lots of stowage, a large aft cabin with en suite heads, a forward guest suite, a large but secure galley, and a chart table sized for ocean passage-planning.
Known Issues
No structural defects or recurring faults specific to this model appear in the available material. A buyer should rely on standard pre-purchase survey practice.
The Verdict
The Contest 40 S evolves the cruising philosophy: lower, finer, quicker, yet with a lead-ballasted solid hull and livable interior.
Pros
- Lower, finer hull than predecessors with intent toward sustained speeds
- Spacious interior with aft cabin en suite and forward guest suite
- Secure galley and ocean-capable chart table
Cons
- Modest sail-area-to-displacement ratio limits light-air acceleration
- Low production run means individual hull history matters more
