CONTEST 30
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 30 ft |
| LWL | 24.92 ft |
| Beam | 9 ft |
| Draft | 4.33 ft |
| Displacement | 8,820 lb |
| Ballast | 3,999.9 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.7 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 35.8 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 11.7 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 30 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 10.2 ft |
| FLforestay | 11.7 ft |
| Mainsail | 374.7 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 209.4 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 356 sq ft |
About the CONTEST 30
The Contest 30 is a classic cruising sloop designed by Dick Zaal and built by Coniplex between 1974 and 1978, with a total production run of 80 hulls. It is recognized for its robust construction and comfortable interior, though owners report significant maintenance challenges related to age and specific structural vulnerabilities.
- Best for:
- This boat suits experienced coastal cruisers and those seeking a traditional, heavy-displacement vessel for protected waters, provided they are prepared for intensive structural maintenance and potential keel repairs.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 8820.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 1.75, the boat possesses the stability and mass for offshore passages, but its bluewater readiness is heavily contingent on verifying the integrity of the keel attachment and rudder assembly.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats from this era include the Cal 30 and O'Day 30, which share similar beam dimensions and cruising-oriented layouts, though the Contest 30 distinguishes itself with a higher displacement and heavier ballast ratio.
Performance
Market Price
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 30ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
15 reported issues across 7 systems for the CONTEST 30, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a CONTEST 30? 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 15 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
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your CONTEST 30?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Atomic 4, Beta Marine, Universal — is it one of these?
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the CONTEST 30
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…