CONTEST 31
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 31.16 ft |
| LWL | 23.42 ft |
| Beam | 9.33 ft |
| Draft | 4.6 ft |
| Displacement | 10,500 lb |
| Ballast | 5,613.3 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.5 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 36.2 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 12.3 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 29.7 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 11 ft |
| FLforestay | 12.3 ft |
| Mainsail | 399 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 222.6 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 378.5 sq ft |
About the CONTEST 31
Designed by U. van Essen and built by Coniplex between 1971 and 1974, the Contest 31 is a classic masthead sloop with a production run of 110 hulls. This data-driven synthesis highlights that while the boat offers a comfortable cruising platform with a comfort ratio of 32.19, owners report significant structural maintenance challenges, particularly regarding deck cores and rudder systems.
- Best for:
- This boat suits experienced coastal cruisers and those willing to undertake substantial structural repairs, as the high frequency of critical deck and rudder issues demands proactive maintenance rather than turnkey readiness.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 10500.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 1.71, the hull form suggests reasonable offshore stability, but the critical prevalence of rudder and shaft issues (44 mentions) and deck core rot (34 mentions) poses a significant risk to bluewater safety unless comprehensively addressed.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats from this era include the Cal 30 and O'Day 30, which share similar displacement and beam dimensions, though the Contest 31 distinguishes itself with a heavier ballast ratio and a more performance-oriented fin keel design.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the CONTEST 31 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 31.16ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
22 reported issues across 8 systems for the CONTEST 31, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a CONTEST 31? 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 22 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 31?
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, Volvo Penta, Westerbeke, Universal — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the CONTEST 31
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…