Contest 57CS Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Contest 57CS is defined by its immense stability and "big boat" feel, a result of its nearly 28-ton displacement and a generous ballast ratio of approximately 39%. During sea trials documented by Yachting World, the vessel demonstrated a remarkable ability to carry sail in heavy air, maintaining a stiff, upright posture that minimizes crew fatigue. The hull’s deep V-shaped bow sections are designed to slice through chop without the pounding often associated with flatter-bottomed modern cruisers.

The steering is typically geared to provide high levels of feedback through a twin-wheel configuration, despite the mechanical complexity of a center-cockpit linkage. While it is not a light-air flyer, the 57CS utilizes its waterline length effectively; once the wind exceeds 12 knots, the yacht settles into a powerful groove. Owners frequently opt for the cutter rig configuration, which allows for a versatile sail plan—including a self-tacking staysail—making the boat exceptionally easy to handle for a couple during overnight passages.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the 57CS is a masterclass in Dutch joinery and ergonomic design, designed to feel like a "home at sea." The standard layout features a three-cabin arrangement, with the pièce de résistance being the massive full-beam master suite aft. This cabin benefits from the center-cockpit design, offering a large island berth, extensive storage, and an ensuite head with a separate shower stall. According to an editorial review by Sail Magazine, the use of vertical hull ports and the panoramic deck saloon windows creates an exceptionally bright living area, a departure from the "cave-like" feel of traditional bluewater boats.

Variations on the hull include a four-cabin layout, which incorporates a bunk-room to starboard, often used for children or as a dedicated sea berth for professional crew. The galley is located in the walkway to the aft cabin, providing a secure, U-shaped workspace that is ideal for cooking while underway. Materials range from traditional teak to modern washed oak, all finished to the exacting standards of the Conyplex yard.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Contest 57CS gained significant industry recognition shortly after its launch, being nominated for the prestigious European Yacht of the Year award in the Luxury Cruiser category. Its reputation as a "mini-superyacht" has been bolstered by its frequent appearances at the Boot Düsseldorf and Cannes Yachting Festival, where it has been cited as a benchmark for semi-custom interior finishes. The model is also a frequent subject of technical studies regarding vacuum infusion processes, as Contest was one of the first major yards to receive Lloyd’s Register certification for their hull infusion methods.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the 57CS with an eye toward the complexity of its systems, which are more akin to a 70-foot yacht than a standard 50-footer.

• Hydraulic Systems: Most 57CS models are equipped with extensive Lewmar hydraulic packages for furling and winches. A thorough inspection of the hydraulic manifold and hose fittings for leaks or pressure drops is essential.
• Teak Deck Bonding: While Contest moved to vacuum-bonded teak decks (which eliminates thousands of screw holes), buyers should inspect the seams for "proud" caulking or thinning of the wood, particularly on boats that have spent significant time in tropical environments.
• Rudder Bearings: Given the high displacement and loads, the large spade rudder can put significant stress on the bearings. Check for play in the steering and any signs of weeping around the rudder post seal.
• Generator and Watermaker Access: Because the engine room is centrally located beneath the cockpit, it is exceptionally well-insulated, but the density of machinery can make servicing the secondary components (like the back end of the generator) difficult. Verify that all service intervals have been logged for these high-wear items.

Community & Resources

Owners of the 57CS benefit from the Contest Yachts Owners Association, an active global community that organizes rallies and technical symposiums. This group is a vital resource for sharing information on refits and long-distance cruising preparations. Furthermore, because Contest maintains a "hull file" for every vessel ever built, owners can contact the yard directly in Medemblik for original wiring diagrams and technical specifications.

The Verdict

The Contest 57CS is a quintessential "lifetime boat" for the sailor who prioritizes safety and craftsmanship over raw racing speed. It is a vessel designed to be lived on for months at a time, providing a level of security in blue water that few production yachts can match.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: Lloyd’s certified vacuum-infused hull provides immense structural integrity.
• Superyacht Aesthetics: Interior design and finish quality are significantly higher than standard production yachts.
• Short-handed Capability: Well-engineered sail handling systems allow a couple to manage the boat safely.

Cons:

• High Complexity: The density of hydraulic and electronic systems requires a diligent maintenance schedule.
• Displacement: The heavy-set hull is less rewarding in very light winds (under 8 knots) compared to performance cruisers.
• Price Point: As a semi-custom Dutch build, the entry price and refit costs are substantially higher than mass-market alternatives.