CONTEST 42
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 41.33 ft |
| LWL | 32.83 ft |
| Beam | 12.67 ft |
| Draft | 6.42 ft |
| Displacement | 24,230 lb |
| Ballast | 10,141.3 lb |
| Material | 42’ 2”12.85 m |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.7 kn |
Accommodation
| Cabins | 2 |
| Berths | 4 |
| Heads | 1 |
| Water | 100.6 L |
| Fuel | 23.2 L |
| CE category | N/A€ |
About the CONTEST 42
Wing Keel version draft:5.58'.
The Contest 42 is a robust, heavy-displacement ketch designed by Dick Zaal and built by Conyplex between 1977 and 1985, with a total production run of 32 hulls. Its substantial displacement of 24230.0 lb and high comfort ratio of 35.97 reflect a design philosophy centered on stability and seakeeping rather than planing speed.
- Best for:
- This vessel is ideally suited for experienced coastal cruisers and bluewater passagemakers who prioritize comfort and stability over high-performance racing. Its masthead ketch rig and heavy displacement make it particularly well-matched for single-handers or couples seeking a manageable, safe offshore platform.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 24230.0 lb and a low capsize ratio of 1.75, the Contest 42 is inherently stable and well-suited for offshore passages, though owners report structural concerns regarding keel smiles that must be addressed for serious bluewater use.
- Comparables:
- Comparable vessels include the Hallberg-Rassy 42 and the Oyster 42, as they share similar heavy-displacement characteristics and ketch or cutter configurations aimed at offshore cruising. The Contest 42 also aligns with the Cape Dory 36 in terms of its conservative, safe handling traits, though with significantly greater length and volume.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the CONTEST 42 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 41.33ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
5 reported issues across 4 systems for the CONTEST 42, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a CONTEST 42? 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 5 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 42?
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, Universal, Perkins — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the CONTEST 42
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