Contest 55CS Information, Review, Specs

The vessel is constructed using Contest’s proprietary vacuum-infusion technique, which ensures a high glass-to-resin ratio and structural integrity far superior to traditional hand-laid laminates. This 17-meter yacht is part of a cohesive family of modern "CS" (Carbon Series/Custom Series) models, sitting strategically between the Contest 50CS and the larger, more crew-dependent Contest 59CS. While the 55CS is large enough to offer genuine luxury, it remains engineered for short-handed sailing, allowing a couple to manage the vessel without professional crew.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The influence of Judel/vrolijk & co is immediately apparent in the hull’s performance characteristics. Unlike older center-cockpit cruisers that prioritized volume over velocity, the 55CS features a modern, balanced hull form with a broad stern and twin rudders. This configuration provides exceptional grip and control, even when the boat is pressed hard in a gust. According to technical reviews by Yachting World, the twin rudders allow for a lighter touch on the helm, reducing the physical demand on the autopilot and the helmsman during long offshore passages.

The sail plan is designed for versatility. Most hulls are equipped with a carbon rig and a simplified control system where all lines lead to winches positioned within reach of the twin steering pedestals. The standard setup often includes an in-mast furling mainsail and a slightly overlapping genoa, but many owners opt for a fixed bowsprit to fly a Code 0 or asymmetric spinnaker. This allows the 55CS to maintain impressive speeds in light air—a historical weakness of heavy-displacement cruisers—while the hull’s displacement provides the necessary momentum to power through choppy, head-sea conditions without slamming.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the Contest 55CS benefits from a collaboration with Wetzels Brown Partners, resulting in an interior that feels more like a custom apartment than a traditional boat cabin. The center-cockpit layout is utilized to its full potential, creating a massive owner’s suite aft that spans the full beam of the boat. This cabin typically features a large island berth, extensive storage, and an en-suite head with a separate shower stall.

The saloon is characterized by the "Contest flush look," where the deck is nearly level, and the large wraparound windows provide an unobstructed view of the horizon even while seated. The galley is a deep, secure U-shape or a corridor-style walkthrough to the aft cabin, designed specifically for use at sea with high fiddles and robust handholds. While the standard layout includes three cabins—the master aft, a VIP guest cabin forward, and a bunk room to starboard—the semi-custom nature of the builder allows for variations. Some owners have configured the third cabin as a dedicated office or a workshop for extended global cruising. High-quality hardwoods, such as oak or teak, are finished to a furniture-grade standard, reflecting the builder’s timber-yard origins.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Contest 55CS gained significant traction in maritime media upon its release, largely due to its sweep of the 2021 awards season. It was featured extensively in Sail Magazine as a standout example of contemporary European design philosophy. Beyond awards, the 55CS has become a frequent subject for sailing documentarians and luxury reviewers who highlight the "silent mode" technology integrated into newer hulls. This system utilizes large lithium-ion battery banks to run air conditioning and appliances overnight without the need for a generator, a feature that has become a benchmark for the model in the luxury cruising community.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Contest 55CS is a contemporary model with high build standards, prospective buyers and current owners should focus on the following technical areas:

• Complex Systems Integration: The 55CS utilizes sophisticated PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) digital switching systems. Buyers should ensure the software is updated and that the interface between the navigation electronics and the yacht's power management is seamless.
• Hydraulic Furlers and Winches: Given the push-button nature of this yacht, the hydraulic power pack is under significant load. Check for any weeping at the seals of the furling motors or hydraulic rams.
• Sealant and Gaskets: The large, distinctive panoramic windows are a highlight but require meticulous inspection. Over time, the sealant on these large surface areas can be stressed by the natural flexing of the hull; look for signs of salt crystallization on the interior sills.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: Although Contest uses a robust "integral" feel for their structures, the 55CS uses a high-performance bulb keel. A survey should include a detailed inspection of the torque on the keel bolts and the fairing around the joint, especially if the vessel has been campaigned in regions with known grounding risks.

Community & Resources

Owners of the 55CS are typically members of the Contest Yacht Club, an active international association that organizes rallies and technical symposiums at the Medemblik shipyard. This community provides a direct line to the factory’s engineering team. For technical documentation, the Contest Yachts Technical Wiki (accessible to owners via the builder's portal) remains the primary source for wiring diagrams and plumbing schematics tailored to each semi-custom hull.

The Verdict

The Contest 55CS is a masterclass in modern semi-custom yacht building, offering a refined balance between high-end luxury and legitimate blue-water capability. It is best suited for experienced couples who want the "big boat" feel of a 60-footer without the logistical headaches of a professional crew.

Pros:

• Exceptional build quality and structural rigidity via vacuum infusion.
• State-of-the-art "easy sailing" systems that allow for genuine short-handed operation.
• The aft owner’s cabin is among the best in its size class for light and ventilation.
• Strong resale value supported by a prestigious brand reputation.

Cons:

• High complexity of onboard systems requires a steep learning curve for maintenance.
• Significant initial investment compared to mass-production cruisers of similar length.
• The twin-rudder setup, while great for sailing, requires active use of the thrusters for tight-quarters docking.