2021 Contest Yachts 49CS

This is the eagerly awaited, first aft cockpit model touching the 50-foot market that Contest has served so specifically well for many decades with centre cockpit yachts. And she arrives with a flourish as clients long appreciating the approach of the aft cockpit Contest 42CS now have a bigger sister to enjoy. The all-new model Contest 49CS is already in build and being a Contest extends new levels of comfort and reliability into the open aft cockpit sector. And looking to environmental considerations, options include an all-electric propulsion system, renewable energy sources and teak deck replacement.

This completely new and innovative design also brings not only huge leisure areas both forward and aft of the neatly planned inboard twin helms stations, but down below unusually spacious mirrored twin aft cabins, plus large master suite forward. It is a new scale of interior plan, with a three-cabin arrangement perfect for safe, performance family sailing. It also brings the benefits of space for a tender garage as well as a submersible bathing platform.

The stepped aft cockpit with forward steering positions innovates a whole new approach. So much safer, more comfortable and practical than the usual stripped-down Med-style, which conventionally sees driver and wheels forced back into the transom guardrails. Here aboard the Contest 49CS there is a secure environment for everyone and every activity from lazing on bean bags on the wide aft deck to perfect captaincy with uninterrupted view of rig and sails right through to headsail tell-tales. Sustainability is clearly in sight too with photovoltaic solar cell array seamlessly integrated into the sleek coachroof and under foot there is the option of synthetic, teak-like decking.

The integral carbon fibre A-frame forward has an incorporated hydraulic furler for easy, optimised off-wind sailing. Aft the winching and sheeting all remains immediately to hand for short-handed helm or crew, for simple operation and involved, hands-on sailing. As with all Contest yachts, the arrangement includes a forward leisure cockpit for relaxation clear of all the action. A tender garage then keeps decks uncluttered without need of davits. In so doing, this also keeps weight down low for increased stability, safety and, of course, style.

Meeting the family call for more equally sized cabins, the Contest 49CS does so with real flair. Not just in the latest Contest interior styling and outfitting, but in footprint and headroom. The newly drawn hull delivers so much more with a wide waterline beam and tall topsides aft boosting both interior space and form stability under full sail. A great combination with wide ranging options including a double as well as twin berths in the unusually tall and open aft cabins. And where before has an aft cockpit design ever offered a two-sided longitudinal corridor galley? This is true cruising innovation.