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Contest 35S
Designer: Dick Zaal  ·  Builder: Conyplex  ·  First built: 1988
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About the Contest 35S

Built by the renowned Dutch shipyard Contest Yachts, this 35-footer represents the yard's commitment to quality construction and seaworthy design. Contest has long been recognized for producing solid, well-built cruising yachts that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering, and the 35S continues this tradition. With its moderate displacement and thoughtful proportions, this sailboat is well-suited for coastal cruising and extended passages alike. The design emphasizes comfort and safety over pure performance, making it an excellent choice for couples or small families seeking a reliable cruising platform. Contest's reputation for robust construction means owners can expect a yacht that handles weather well and ages gracefully. The 35S benefits from the yard's experience in building boats for the demanding North Sea conditions, resulting in a sturdy hull and deck structure that inspires confidence in challenging waters. Interior accommodations typically reflect European sensibilities with efficient use of space and quality joinery work. While not a racing machine, the boat offers respectable sailing performance with predictable handling characteristics that make it comfortable for both experienced sailors and those still developing their skills.

Core Dimensions
LOA (Length Overall) 34.58 ft / 10.54 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 28.58 ft / 8.71 m
Beam 11.17 ft / 3.40 m
Max Draft 5.75 ft / 1.75 m
Displacement 13,040.00 lb / 5,915 kg
Ballast 5,513.00 lb / 2,501 kg
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Dick Zaal
Builder Conyplex
First Built 1988
Last Built 1998
Number Built 42
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Performance Ratios
PHRF Rating PHRF (Performance Handicap Racing Fleet) is a national racing handicap measured in seconds per nautical mile. Lower values indicate faster boats. Ratings are sourced from US Sailing's national database (median across 60+ regional fleets).
Under 0 — Ultralight racer0–90 — Performance racer90–150 — Cruiser/racer150–210 — Typical cruiserOver 210 — Heavy/slow cruiser
165
Ballast/Displacement Ballast to Displacement ratio shows what percentage of the boat's total weight is ballast. Higher values generally mean better initial stability and stiffer sail carrying.
30–35% — Typical cruiser35–45% — Stiff performance boatOver 45% — Racing oriented
42.28
Displacement/Length Displacement to Length ratio measures how heavy a boat is relative to its waterline length. Lower values mean a lighter, faster boat.
Under 100 — Ultralight racer100–200 — Light cruiser/racer200–300 — Moderate cruiser300–400 — Heavy cruiserOver 400 — Very heavy
249.37
Pounds/Inch Immersion Pounds per Inch Immersion (PPI) tells you how much weight is needed to sink the boat one inch. Useful for calculating how additional gear and stores affect waterline. 6.84 pounds/inch
Rig Dimensions
I (Foretriangle Height) 19.04
J (Foretriangle Base) 19.78 ft / 6.03 m
P (Mainsail Luff) 657.00 ft² / 61.04 m²
E (Mainsail Foot) 249.37
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