CONTEST 48
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 48.23 ft |
| LWL | 37.57 ft |
| Beam | 14.14 ft |
| Draft | 6.42 ft |
| Displacement | 37,883 lb |
| Ballast | 12,168 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 8.2 kn |
About the CONTEST 48
The Contest 48 is a rare, heavy-displacement ketch designed by Dick Zaal and built by Conyplex between 1976 and 1978, with only 5 hulls produced. Its substantial displacement of 37883.0 lb and high comfort ratio of 42.18 reflect a design prioritizing seakeeping and stability over speed.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for experienced bluewater cruisers who value offshore capability and comfort, as well as those willing to manage the maintenance demands of a rare, aging vessel with specific structural vulnerabilities.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 37883.0 lb, a capsize ratio of 1.69, and a fin keel, the Contest 48 is inherently stable and well-suited for offshore passages, though its age requires rigorous structural verification.
- Comparables:
- Comparable vessels include other heavy-displacement ketches from the 1970s such as the Hallberg-Rassy 43 or Oyster 435, which share similar build quality, displacement characteristics, and offshore cruising roles.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the CONTEST 48 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 48.23ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
10 reported issues across 7 systems for the CONTEST 48, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a CONTEST 48? 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 10 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 48?
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: Perkins, Yanmar — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the CONTEST 48
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…