Contest in Cannes

Both feature sophisticated short-handed sailing systems and demonstrate the finest Dutch engineering and outfitting, as well as full Lloyd’s Register certification.

CONTEST 49CS

With our history at this size rich in fine centre cockpit yachts with master suites aft, in the 15-metre Contest 49CS we have developed something new.

Different yet reassuringly consistent with Contest credentials, the Contest 49CS is for sailors preferring their master suite forward and two twinned family or guest cabins in the back. And what cabins these are, they’re huge for this end of the 50-foot sector.

In addition, there’s a very impressive tender garage, spacious aft deck, and loads of storage throughout the cabins which enjoy the latest design-styling from the Wetzels Brown studio, introducing new super-ergonomic luxury furnishings from the clever sofa and recliner arrangement to joinery detailing including optional ribbed timber bulkheads, a feature shared with the 63CS also on show.

CONTEST 63CS

With all the space, comforts and featuring that larger yachts enable, the 19-metre Contest 63CS remains at a size still well suited to owner and family operation yet with the cabin facility for professional crew should helping hands be preferred. The Contest 63CS is also the 2025 Luxury European Yacht of the Year.

Built to the exacting standards the world has learned to expect from the best of Dutch shipyards, the Contest 63CS is not just a beautiful and very capable yacht, but one of the most technically advanced for her size, both in design and engineering of structure and onboard systems.

And the innovation continues in the achievement of such simple management of otherwise complex systems, and a level of quietness rarely experienced in a yacht this size, whether in hotel mode or cutting through a big seaway.

“The definitive luxury cruiser for 2025,” said the European Yacht of the Year judges about the Contest 63CS.

The version on show in Cannes has a three-cabin arrangement with vast master suite aft, and two identical mirrored guest double suites forward of the very comfortable, big saloon, plus enormous stowage and workshop area leading forward into the bow.

There are many variants on this arrangement, including a fourth cabin either midships or in the bow. Interior styling is by Wetzels Brown and detailing includes clever space-mirroring trompe l’oeil effect in an already daylight-bright interior.

Externally, further ingenuity is evident in practical solutions such as the rotating helm seats which transition the aft deck into a wonderful third dining and socialising area.

Naval architecture for both yachts is by celebrated design house judel/vrolijk & co who worked also on the evolution of house style for the external appearance, keeping each of these yachts immediately identifiable within the brand while advancing modernity with more vertical ends, raised topsides and altered sheerline.

Designed for low angles of heel, the sailing is more comfortable, and with the structural stiffness and lighter weights achieved through the precision single-shot vacuum resin infusion, sailing efficiency is improved in both light and heavier winds. More sail time, less engine time. It’s a win-win!

Cannes Yachting Festival runs 9 to 14 September. Contest Yachts will exhibit at Port Canto, Berth Sail 054.

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