Contest 60 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Contest 60 is a quintessential heavy-displacement cruiser, designed more for momentum and stability than light-air agility. With a displacement that typically exceeds 30 tons depending on the load, the hull provides a motion through the water that owners frequently describe as "unflappable." The boat’s tracking is aided by a moderate-to-deep fin keel and a substantial skeg-hung rudder, a configuration that offers exceptional directional stability when running before large ocean swells.

While the sail area-to-displacement ratio is conservative, the 60 was often rigged as a powerful cutter or ketch, allowing for a wide variety of sail combinations to maintain balance in heavy weather. According to historical design notes from Dick Zaal Yacht Design, the hull form was optimized to reduce slamming in a head sea, a common trait in Zaal's work for Contest. Handling the 60 requires respect for its mass; while the hydraulic furling systems standard on many units make short-handed sailing possible, the loads on the sheets and blocks are immense. Under power, the large propeller and significant waterline length allow for efficient passage-making at 8 to 9 knots, though the windage of the high topsides and center-cockpit superstructure necessitates careful maneuvering in tight marinas.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Contest 60 is a masterclass in traditional Dutch cabinetry, characterized by solid teak or mahogany finishes and a layout that prioritizes safety at sea. As a semi-custom build, few 60s are identical, but most follow the classic center-cockpit arrangement which allows for a palatial full-beam master cabin aft. This cabin typically features a centerline queen berth and a private en-suite head with a separate stall shower.

Moving forward, the raised salon provides excellent visibility and a sense of volume that was revolutionary for its era. The "U-shaped" galley is deep and secure, designed for use while heeled. Variations often included a dedicated navigation station that could double as a ship’s office. Forward of the mast, configurations vary from twin guest cabins with bunk berths to a large VIP V-berth, depending on whether the original owner prioritized charter capacity or private family cruising. The headroom is notable throughout, often exceeding 6'6" in the main salon, which contributes to the "ship-like" feel of the interior.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Contest 60 must approach the vessel with an understanding of its age and complex systems. While the hulls are famously stout, the following areas require specific scrutiny:

• Teak Deck Longevity: Contest used thick teak planks, but many of these vessels are now at the age where the original decks may be reaching the end of their service life. Checking for thinning wood or failing caulking is critical, as a full replacement on a 60-foot deck is a significant capital expense.
• Hydraulic Systems: Many 60s were equipped with extensive hydraulic packages for furling and winches. These systems require meticulous maintenance; buyers should check for leaks at the rams and the condition of the power pack.
• Stainless Steel Fuel Tanks: Unlike modern composite tanks, the original stainless or aluminum tanks in these models can suffer from "pitting" or galvanic corrosion if water has sat in the sumps. Access for inspection can be difficult due to the robust interior joinery.
• Rudder Bearing Wear: Given the heavy loads on the skeg-hung rudder, the bearings and bushings should be checked for "slop" or play, which can lead to vibration under power or a heavy feel at the helm.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for owners is the Contest Yachts headquarters in Medemblik, which maintains an impressive archive of original drawings and parts lists for their legacy models. Unlike many builders that have changed ownership, the Conijn family’s continuous stewardship means that technical support for a 30-year-old Contest 60 is often still available directly from the source. Additionally, the Dutch Contest Owners’ Club (Contest Yacht Club) organizes rallies and provides a platform for technical exchange among owners of the larger classic models.

The Verdict

The Contest 60 is a "gentleman’s flagship" that offers a rare combination of old-world craftsmanship and indestructible offshore capability. It is not a boat for those seeking the high-speed planing performance of modern Mediterranean cruisers, but for the sailor intending to cross oceans in absolute security, it has few peers.

Pros

• Exceptional Build Quality: Built to a standard that is rarely replicated in modern serial production.
• Heavy Weather Prowess: A stable, dry, and predictable platform in gale conditions.
• True Bluewater Layout: Ample storage, secure engine access, and a safe center-cockpit design.

Cons

• High Maintenance Costs: Large systems and aging teak decks require a significant annual budget.
• Heavy Handling: The vessel’s mass makes it less rewarding in light airs and demanding during docking.
• Complex Systems: Hydraulic and electrical sophistication from the 1990s can be difficult to troubleshoot without specialist knowledge.