The new Contest 50CS has the perfect balance of sailing ease, performance and onboard comforts

exterior

The looks are all ‘Contest’ with lines evolved as ever from the learnings and leanings of each preceding model while introducing new thinking also. Which means the new Contest 50CS, with its deep sides and broader deck plan ably incorporates now even more of the styling and detailing of the larger yachts in the range. The brings a low sleek coachroof sweeping aft into the two-section cockpit with deep seated and curved-for-comfort leisure cockpit forward. Behind, the twin helm stations are framed by surrounding coamings for that extra sense of ocean safety, yet with simple central walkthrough easing and making safe deck entry and exit. Again, it’s that balance, an elegance that works – in every sense of the word.

Just as aesthetics must work well, the practicalities of yacht operations are paramount. That has long been the mantra at Contest Yachts and the advanced systems and arrangements for the Contest 50CS make for much eased handling and management. Sheets, lines and halyards are led unobtrusively to stout winches well positioned for both short and fully crewed handing. The expansive flush deck spaces are made sensibly safe with well-placed handholds and grab points and the sturdy, tall guardrails all around. The flying of asymmetric sails is simplified with the A-frame set-up, and the stowage of sails and kit is made easy with sensibly proportioned deck lockers and hatches. All planned to make voyaging always enjoyable.