Fresh approach

“So, we started to look at our 13-metre 42CS that is so enjoyed for its great cockpit and twin aft cabin plan; to think it a size bigger, and our sketching started to show maybe we could do this differently.”

With long-term design partners judel/vrolijk & co for naval architecture, Wetzels Brown Partners for interiors, and Lloyd’s Register for world-leading compliance and classification, the Contest 49CS not only took shape but started selling off plan.

As Johan Siefer of judel/vrolijk added “It has all been worked with handsome effect. Key throughout design development were interior volumes, stability and simultaneously heightened upwind and light wind performance. And in physical terms we have less heel, less drag, less moment in the waves. So, it is smoother, more comfortable.”

And with Contest Yachts’ single-shot vacuum infusion composite construction technologies uniquely acknowledged by Lloyd’s Register as one-of-a-kind and industry leading, the structure is stiff and strong yet still light for type and comprehensively Lloyd’s certified.

And as with all yachts from Contest, the Contest 49CS will be impeccably quiet, fully freed of intrusive noise and vibration through the company’s renowned, finely engineered outfitting.

High quality build and attention to detail are what separates this model from its rivals. Its difference is also equally clear in the physical arrangement of the twin-cockpit deck and accommodation plans.

First, below decks are the spacious twin cabins aft with exceptionally high ceilings; the unique to sector two-sided corridor galley; the unusually large and freshly styled saloon; and the fully serviced master suite forward, featuring as throughout impeccable cabinetry, lighting, styling and hull glazing.

“With the Contest 49CS it’s a completely different feeling to that of a normal aft-cockpit where everything inside at the back is conventionally relatively low,” said Arjen Conijn.

“This arrangement works really so well for families sailing with children, giving parents private space forward, and two large, equal cabins aft. And with the option of twin beds or double, this works well for guests too. Plus with the 49CS we have a tender garage that’s really handy for quick launch and retrieval. It’s tidier, too.”

Then there is the forward positioning of the twin helm stations, not with wheels so typically seen pushed back into the pushpit area. Instead, on the Contest 49CS the helm is by nature more secure and also more connected with the forward leisure cockpit, which in Contest tradition is deep, comfortable and perfectly set for confidence in all conditions.

Another attractive feature of this arrangement is then a wonderful aft deck for beanbag lounging and a fascinating new take on aft-cockpit sailing.

www.contestyachts.com