CONTEST 28
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 27.92 ft |
| LWL | 22.42 ft |
| Beam | 9.33 ft |
| Draft | 5.33 ft |
| Displacement | 6,173 lb |
| Ballast | 2,910 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.3 kn |
About the CONTEST 28
The Contest 28 is a rare, high-performance cruising sloop designed by Dick Zaal and built by Coniplex between 1976 and 1981, with only 20 hulls produced. Its scarcity and specific build count make it a unique collector's item rather than a mass-market vessel.
- Best for:
- This boat suits experienced sailors seeking a lightweight, responsive coastal cruiser with a masthead sloop rig, particularly those who value performance and are comfortable with a smaller, specialized fleet.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 6173.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 2.04, the boat is moderately stable for coastal passages but its light displacement and short LWL of 22.42 ft suggest it is better suited for protected waters than heavy offshore bluewater cruising.
- Comparables:
- Comparable to other late-1970s European performance cruisers like the Contessa 26 or early O'Day models, though the Contest 28 distinguishes itself with a higher D/L ratio of 244.54 and a more specialized fin keel design.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the CONTEST 28 yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 27.92ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
2 reported issues across 2 systems for the CONTEST 28, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a CONTEST 28? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 2 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
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Which engine powers your CONTEST 28?
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Used sails that fit the CONTEST 28
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