Sailing Performance & Handling
The sailing characteristics of the Contest 58 are defined by its significant displacement—approximately 27 tons—and its high ballast ratio. This combination results in a remarkably "stiff" boat that maintains a vertical posture long after lighter cruisers are forced to reef. While the hull is available in several configurations, many were equipped with a wing keel, a technology Contest famously adopted following its success in the America's Cup. This allows for a moderate draft without sacrificing the lift and upwind efficiency required for deep-ocean passages.
Handling the 58 requires an understanding of its momentum. While it is not a "light-air flyer," once the wind exceeds 12 knots, the hull settles into a powerful groove. The yacht was most commonly rigged as a ketch, a choice that provides a versatile sail plan for short-handed crews. By utilizing the "mizzen and jib" configuration in heavy weather, owners report the boat remains exceptionally balanced and easy for an autopilot to manage. The center-cockpit design keeps the crew high and dry, well-protected from green water, which is a frequent praise in Contest Yachts' historical design summaries.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the Contest 58 is a masterclass in traditional Dutch joinery, typically finished in high-grade Burmese teak or light oak. Because Contest moved toward a semi-custom model during this yacht's production run, several interior configurations exist. The most common layout features a massive full-beam master stateroom aft, accessible via a walkthrough gallery that often houses the engine room access and a dedicated navigation station.
The main saloon is characterized by its generous headroom and the "raised" seating area that allows for excellent visibility through the wrap-around cabin windows. Forward of the mast, the boat usually offers two guest cabins—one with a double berth and another with bunk beds—sharing a head. A rare four-cabin variant was also produced to accommodate larger families or professional crews. This sibling logic extends to the Contest 60, which shares much of the 58's DNA but offers an extended aft deck and larger lazarette storage. The quality of the insulation and mechanical installations in these vessels is often cited as a benchmark for the industry, ensuring the interior remains quiet even while motoring through heavy chop.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
While the Contest 58 is built to an incredibly high standard, the age of these vessels necessitates a specific inspection protocol. Prospective buyers should focus on the following high-signal areas:
- Teak Deck Integrity: Contest utilized thick teak planks, but after three decades, the screw-down method used in that era can lead to moisture ingress in the sub-deck. A professional moisture meter test of the balsa-cored deck is essential.
- Keel-to-Hull Joint: Given the heavy ballast and the wing keel's leverage, the stainless steel keel bolts should be inspected for "smile" cracks at the leading edge or signs of galvanic corrosion.
- Rigging and Chainplates: On ketch-rigged versions, the complexity of the standing rigging is doubled. Specifically, the chainplates are often glassed into the hull structure; any signs of weeping or rust staining near the deck glands require immediate investigation.
- Hydraulic Systems: Many 58s were fitted with early Lewmar or Navtec hydraulic systems for furling and backstay tensioning. These systems are prone to seal failure and can be expensive to overhaul if parts are no longer in production.
Community & Resources
Owners of the Contest 58 benefit from one of the most dedicated manufacturer-supported communities in the sailing world. The Contest Yacht Owners Association provides a technical bridge between the shipyard and legacy owners, offering access to original blueprints and parts sourcing. Additionally, the Dutch heritage of the boat means that many technical queries can be resolved through direct contact with the Makkum-based shipyard, which still prides itself on servicing its vintage fleet.
The Verdict
The Contest 58 is a "sailor's yacht" built for those who value safety and craftsmanship over contemporary minimalist design. It remains a premier choice for couples planning to live aboard and cruise remotely.
Pros:
- Exceptional heavy-weather stability and "big boat" feel.
- World-class interior joinery that resists the creaks and groans of cheaper liners.
- True bluewater capability with redundant systems and massive tankage.
Cons:
- Heavy displacement makes it sluggish in light winds (under 8 knots).
- High maintenance costs associated with older teak decks and complex ketch rigging.
- The large physical footprint and displacement make it difficult to find suitable berths in older, smaller marinas.
