Sailing Performance & Handling
Under sail, the Contest 45 CS is characterized by its stiffness and predictable tracking, a byproduct of its moderate displacement and well-engineered lead keel. With a displacement of approximately 13,500 kg and a total sail area of roughly 107 square meters, the yacht possesses a Sail Area/Displacement ratio of approximately 18.5. This allows for respectable light-air performance while ensuring the vessel remains manageable when the wind climbs toward 25 knots.
The Nissen hull design utilizes a deep, balanced spade rudder and a bulb keel, providing a high degree of lift and reducing drag compared to the long-keel configurations of older Dutch cruisers. Editorial reviews from the era noted that the 45 CS feels "planted" in a seaway, with the center-cockpit position offering a dry, commanding view of the rig and surroundings. The yacht is typically rigged as a fractional sloop, often equipped with an in-mast furling mainsail and an electric primary winch package, making it a favorite for short-handed couples who value mechanical assistance over physical muscle.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the 45 CS reflects the "semi-custom" philosophy of the Conyplex yard, where handcrafted joinery—usually in teak or light oak—is executed to a standard rarely seen in mass-production yachts. The primary layout features a two-cabin configuration: a cavernous owner's stateroom aft with a centerline queen berth and private ensuite, and a VIP guest cabin forward. The salon is distinguished by Contest’s signature large deck-house windows, which provide panoramic views and significant natural light, a feature often discussed in Yachting Monthly evaluations of the brand's mid-size range.
While the hull remains consistent across the series, internal variations occasionally appear on the brokerage market. Some hulls were commissioned with a dedicated navigation station that could double as a home office, while others maximized galley storage for long-range provisioning. The engine room, located beneath the cockpit sole, is often cited by researchers as a model of accessibility, featuring heavy-duty soundproofing that allows for quiet motoring during calms.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Purchasing a Contest 45 CS requires a specialized survey focusing on the sophisticated systems inherent to Dutch semi-custom builds. Prospective buyers should prioritize the following areas:
- Vacuum Infusion Integrity: While Contest’s infusion process is world-class, early 2000s models should be checked for any signs of delamination or moisture ingress in the balsa core, particularly around through-hull fittings or aftermarket deck hardware installations.
- Teak Deck Longevity: Contest traditionally utilized thick, vacuum-bonded teak. However, given the age of these vessels, inspectors should look for thinning of the wood or failing sealant (caulking), which can lead to expensive refurbishment costs.
- Electrical Complexity: These boats were often fitted with complex 24V systems and sophisticated Mastervolt power management. Buyers should verify that previous owners have not performed "backyard" modifications to the original factory wiring.
- Standing Rigging: Many 45 CS models are now approaching or have passed the age where a full standing rigging replacement is required for insurance purposes.
Community & Resources
Owners of the 45 CS are supported by the Contest Yachts Owners Association, a robust international community that organizes rallies and shares technical data. Because Contest Yachts remains a family-owned company, the yard in Medemblik often retains the original build records and blueprints for specific hulls, providing a level of manufacturer support that is rare for out-of-production models.
The Verdict
The Contest 45 CS is a quintessential "gentleman’s cruiser," offering a refined balance of modern performance and traditional Dutch robustness. It is ideally suited for a couple looking to cross oceans in comfort without the logistical burden of a larger 50-plus foot vessel.
Pros:
- Exceptional build quality and joinery that holds value over decades.
- The vacuum-infused hull provides a rigid, quiet ride in heavy seas.
- Center-cockpit design offers superior safety and a massive aft stateroom.
Cons:
- Higher entry price compared to production-line cruisers of similar age.
- Maintenance on sophisticated systems (hydraulic furling, complex electrics) can be costly.
- The moderate displacement may feel less "nimble" in extremely light wind compared to modern performance-cruisers.
