Contest 42 S Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Contest 42 S is characterized by its "long-legged" performance, favoring consistency and stability over outright sprinting speed. With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the heavier side of the cruising spectrum, the boat excels in moderate to heavy air, where its mass allows it to power through chop without the jarring motion typical of lighter production boats. The high ballast ratio, often featuring a deep fin keel or a wing keel variant, provides excellent righting moments, making the 42 S a very dry boat even when pushed hard on a beat.

The steering is typically geared for long-distance tracking rather than fingertip responsiveness, which is an intentional design choice for a blue water cruiser meant to be handled by a short-handed crew or an autopilot for days on end. The ketch rig was a popular option for this model, allowing owners to "split the tabs" and maintain a balanced sail plan in rising winds, though a sloop rig was also available for those prioritizing upwind efficiency. Because the center cockpit is positioned relatively high and forward of the stern, visibility from the helm is excellent, though it does place the crew further away from the water’s edge, contributing to the yacht’s reputation as a secure "ship-like" platform.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Contest 42 S is a masterclass in traditional joinery, utilizing high-grade teak that has, in many well-maintained examples, aged into a rich, deep honey hue. As a center-cockpit design, the layout is defined by its expansive master aft cabin, which features a dedicated en-suite head and significant standing headroom—a luxury rarely found in 40-footers of the same vintage. The passage from the salon to the aft cabin typically houses a linear galley or a navigation station, depending on the specific owner’s configuration.

The salon is designed with a classic U-shaped settee to port and a straight settee to starboard, centered around a large folding leaf table that can comfortably seat six. Forward, a second guest cabin with a V-berth and a second head compartment provides privacy for visitors. Variations of the 42 S included subtle changes to the cabinetry and the inclusion of a pilot berth in some hulls. While the 42 S is the primary designation, it shares DNA with its slightly larger or smaller siblings of the Zaal era, such as the Contest 40 and 43, which utilized similar hull geometries and interior motifs to offer a consistent "Contest feel" across the range.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Contest 42 S should focus their surveys on several age-related areas common to high-quality yachts of this vintage. While the hulls are generally considered bulletproof in terms of structural integrity, the teak decks are a primary concern. Many 42 S models were delivered with thick, screw-fastened teak; if these have not been replaced or re-caulked in the last 15–20 years, moisture may have compromised the balsa core of the deck.

The rudder bearing assembly on older Contest models can develop play over time, leading to a "thumping" sensation at the helm; this often requires a specialized replacement of the bushings. Additionally, buyers should inspect the stainless steel chainplates, which are glassed into the hull structure; while robust, any signs of weeping or rust streaks require immediate attention to prevent deck rot. Finally, since many of these vessels have spent decades in the Mediterranean or Caribbean, the original gelcoat may show signs of "chalking," though the thickness of the laminate usually allows for a professional cut and polish to restore the shine.

Community & Resources

Owners of the 42 S benefit from a dedicated and technically proficient community. The Contest Yachts Owners Association is the primary hub for technical data, original brochures, and historical records. This group is particularly active in the Netherlands and the UK, providing a wealth of knowledge regarding refits and sourcing original parts from the Conyplex yard, which famously continues to support its heritage fleet.

The Verdict

The Contest 42 S remains a premier choice for sailors who prioritize safety and build quality over modern "condo-maran" interior volumes. It is a purposeful machine built for the North Sea, capable of taking its crew anywhere in the world in relative luxury.

Pros:

• Exceptional Dutch construction with high-grade teak joinery.
• Comfortable and safe motion in heavy seas due to high displacement.
• Spacious master aft cabin providing true live-aboard privacy.
• Strong resale value and active manufacturer support for older models.

Cons:

• Teak deck maintenance or replacement can be a significant capital expense.
• Heavier displacement makes it less agile in light-wind coastal racing.
• The center-cockpit design results in a smaller aft cockpit for social entertaining compared to modern stern-cockpit yachts.