The new Contest 63CS offers a semi-custom fitout and while it may not quite be superyacht size, it’s definitely got the quality What a beauty! This Judel Vrolijk shape is now familiar to the range from the Dutch family-run yard. This first hull is tricked up with an optional deeper 3.4m keel and a taller carbon mast with in-boom furling as its owner wants to do the odd regatta in between cruising with family.
\nThe Contest 63CS is right on the size limit of being manageable by an owner-operator \u2013indeed this first one has a crew cabin. Powered systems that are easy to operate from the helm pedestals are key, and include the neat furling system integrated in the bowsprit for the Code or Helix sails. Further headsail options include, genoa, self-tacking jib and inner staysail.
\nThe design of the twin helm seats is a commendable feature as these both swivel and slide to help create a lounge area around the huge aft deck. A collapsible table which stows in the aft hatch lid helps to make the most of what is often a flat, unused sun pad space.<\/p>\n
Step below decks and you find a seriously impressive, tasteful interior by Wetzels Brown Partners offered in teak or oak. (Contest\u2019s long-term design partners are currently working on the 85m sloop in build at Royal Huisman.)
\nThe semi-custom layout revolves around the raised saloon and deep, long passageway galley \u2013 a two-sided format Contest always prefers for safety when sailing. \u201cThe master aft cabin is what we think will be the most popular, the galley and saloon stays and you can play with the rest,\u201d Contest\u2019s CEO Arjen Conijn tells me.
\nEnter the aft cabin and you can see why he can have conviction in such a statement. It includes Contest\u2019s aft facing window, which comes into play when the swim platform is lowered.
\nThe Contest63CS is available with four or five cabins, three of them en suite. The show boat\u2019s portside forward cabin links to a forepeak skipper\u2019s cabin via the shower compartment. This can be a large sail locker, a utility work room or crew cabin.
\nContest uses the term superyachting in its literature, referring to the size and sailing with a paid crew. But it\u2019s the finish quality that smacks of superyacht class.
\nContest 63CS specifications
\nLOA: 19.29m 63ft 3in
\nLWL: 17.85m 58ft 7in
\nBeam (Max): 5.85m 19ft 2in
\nDraught: 2.90m 9ft 6in
\nDisp (lightship): 31,900kg 70,327lb
\nStandard Sail Area: 113m2 1,216ft2
\nEngine: 168hp Volvo Penta
\nWater: 1,150lt 253gal
\nFuel: 1,560lt 343gal
\nPrice: (ex VAT) from \u20ac2.9m
\nDesign: Judel Vrolijk
\nPriced from: \u20ac2.9m ex VAT.
\nBuilder: contestyachts.com<\/p>\n
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The post Contest 63CS first look: New superyacht quality 63 footer appeared first on Yachting World.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
The new Contest 63CS offers a semi-custom fitout and while it may not quite be superyacht size, it’s definitely got the quality What a beauty! This Judel Vrolijk shape is now familiar to the range from the Dutch family-run yard. … <\/p>\n