Contest 42 CS Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Designed by Georg Nissen, the Contest 42CS is engineered for a balanced, "all-rounder" performance that favors stability and predictability in heavy weather without sacrificing light-air agility. The hull features a moderate beam carried well aft and a high-aspect-ratio spade rudder that provides exceptional grip when heeled. According to technical reviews by Yachting World, the boat exhibits a "big boat" feel, remaining remarkably composed and quiet even when punching through a chop.

The standard configuration includes a fractionally rigged Selden mast with a tapered top, though many owners opted for the carbon rig for enhanced performance. The Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio sits in a range that qualifies it as a medium-displacement cruiser, providing the momentum needed for ocean passages while the sail area-to-displacement ratio (roughly 21.5 depending on the sail plan) indicates a yacht capable of maintaining high average speeds. The twin-wheel steering system is geared for tactile feedback, allowing the helmsman to feel the nuances of the hull's trim, a characteristic often lost in larger, heavier cruising vessels.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior, styled by Wetzels Brown Partners, departs from the traditional "dark wood" aesthetic often associated with older Dutch yachts, opting instead for a modern, light-filled environment. One of the most distinctive features of the 42CS is its layout versatility. Contest offered three primary "packages": the "Shallow Draught" for coastal cruising, the "Performance" version with a deeper keel, and various cockpit layouts including a "Shorthanded" version where all lines lead to winches within reach of the helm.

Internally, the yacht typically features a three-cabin or two-cabin layout. In the two-cabin "Owner’s" version, the space usually reserved for a third cabin is converted into a large technical room or a massive cockpit locker, accessible from both the galley and the deck. Headroom is generous throughout, often exceeding 6'6" in the main saloon. The joinery is a standout feature, utilizing a sandwich construction for locker doors to save weight, finished with high-grade veneers that maintain the builder's reputation for cabinetry excellence.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Contest 42CS gained substantial international attention during its debut, notably featured as a "Best Boat" winner by Sail Magazine. Its media presence is largely defined by its success in the European luxury market, where it was frequently used as the benchmark for comparing the "semi-custom" build approach against mass-production luxury boats. While it has not been the subject of a single high-profile circumnavigation book, it is a staple in high-end yachting journals as an example of the "pocket superyacht" philosophy.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While Contest yachts are built to a higher standard than most production vessels, the 42CS has specific areas that require scrutiny during a pre-purchase survey:

1. Complex Systems Integration: As a semi-custom yacht, many 42CS models were fitted with complex Mastervolt digital switching systems (CZone or similar). Prospective buyers should ensure the software is updated and that all modules are communicating correctly, as troubleshooting these systems requires specialized knowledge.
2. Vacuum Infusion Voids: While the "one-shot" infusion is superior for strength, any subsequent hull damage that was poorly repaired can lead to localized delamination. A professional moisture meter reading and percussion testing of the laminate are essential.
3. Saildrive Diaphragm: Most 42CS units are powered by a Yanmar engine with a saildrive. The rubber seals (diaphragms) have a manufacturer-recommended replacement interval (usually 7–10 years). On older 42CS models, check if this service has been performed.
4. Teak Deck Condition: Contest uses thick, vacuum-bonded teak. While more durable than screwed decks, buyers should check for "silvering" or thinning of the wood in high-traffic areas, which may indicate aggressive cleaning with power washers in the past.

Community & Resources

Owners of the 42CS benefit from the Contest Yacht Club, a well-organized international association that hosts rallies and technical symposiums. The builder, still family-owned, maintains an extensive archive of every hull produced, providing owners with direct access to original wiring diagrams and build specifications via their headquarters in Medemblik.

The Verdict

The Contest 42CS is an elite-tier cruiser for the sailor who prioritizes build integrity and "Dutchness"—that specific blend of conservative engineering and modern aesthetic—over the lower price point of high-volume manufacturers.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: Lloyd's certified vacuum-infused hull offers superior strength-to-weight ratio.
• Customization: Rare level of interior and cockpit layout flexibility for a 42-foot boat.
• Resale Value: Strong brand prestige and limited production runs help maintain high secondary market prices.
• Sailing Dynamics: Provides a sophisticated, responsive helm feel usually reserved for pure racing yachts.

Cons:

• Premium Price: Initial and secondary market costs are significantly higher than competitors like Hallberg-Rassy or Beneteau.
• System Complexity: The high level of onboard technology may be intimidating for the DIY-oriented cruiser.
• Draft Sensitivity: The performance-oriented keel is deep; buyers in thin-water areas like the Chesapeake or Bahamas must specifically seek out the shallow-draft variant.