CONTEST 35
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 34.94 ft |
| LWL | 29.16 ft |
| Beam | 11.65 ft |
| Draft | 5.41 ft |
| Displacement | 15,212 lb |
| Ballast | 6,944.3 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.2 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 41.25 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 12.25 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 46 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 16.92 ft |
About the CONTEST 35
With modified deck and some other updates, reintroduced as CONTEST 36S (1984).
The Contest 35 is a fractional sloop designed by D. Zaal and built by Conyplex between 1981 and 1983. With a displacement of 15212.0 lb and a comfort ratio of 28.92, this vessel is characterized as a heavy, stable cruiser, though the exact number of hulls built remains unconfirmed.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for coastal and offshore cruisers who prioritize stability and comfort over high-speed performance, particularly those willing to manage potential structural maintenance.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 1.88 and a D/L ratio of 273.89, the Contest 35 exhibits strong offshore stability and seakeeping characteristics suitable for bluewater passages.
- Comparables:
- Comparable vessels include other heavy-displacement European cruisers from the early 1980s, such as the Hallberg-Rassy 35 or the Beneteau 36, which share similar fractional rig configurations and substantial ballast ratios.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the CONTEST 35 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 34.94ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
6 reported issues across 5 systems for the CONTEST 35, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a CONTEST 35? 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 6 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 35?
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 — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the CONTEST 35
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…