2020 Contest Yachts 59CS

Launched for the 2020 season, the 18.5 metre Contest 59CS with new styling from judel/vrolijk & co continues the refreshing modernity running through the evolving Contest line.

In order and principle, she follows the popular and much praised Contest 57CS but is longer with near plumb bow and extended, broader stern. Interior levels are raised for direct eyeline and outlook through the panoramic windows, which sit below a smart, newly styled superstructure. The super graceful contours of this go hand in hand with the pacy performance that the new judel/vrolijk modelling brings, including optimised foils and lowered centres of gravity and effort, for both efficiency and sea-kindliness.

This all connects with the way of our larger yachts, and continues through to the interior with similar superyacht theme to the furnishings and advanced engineering systems.

Intended for friends and family operation, sailing systems and deck management are easily handled, and the varied three and four cabin arrangements enable very personal choice, including workshop and a crew cabin if that is wished.

A truly powerful bluewater sail plan always allows for continuing sailing through light as well as stiff breeze, and the Contest 59CS is well set for this. Sheeting arrangements are also simple and to hand, on properly specified, powerful winches and ancillary hardware.

Decks are in Contest’s signature vacuum bonded, substantial quality teak, and working space is uncluttered yet well sorted with handholds well planned, including high rails and plentiful clipping-on points. The two-section cockpit, dividing lounging and control, separates function but maintains social flow between all aboard, and access to deck is excellent with clear walkway through aft.

There’s a huge sail locker forward and a sizeable lazarette aft. A hydraulic bathing platform can be set into the stern. Forward you’ll see the optional bowsprit for eased flying of reaching and downwind sails. And above all, the two helm stations with control consoles and wonderfully sculptural ergonomic seats provide an excellent view forward at all angles of heel, which with the judel/vrolijk touch remain within safe and pleasant cruising comfort.

Styled by Wetzels Brown Partners, the Contest 59CS clearly shares the themes and detailing of our larger yachts, bringing the enjoyment of exquisitely contoured and fashioned furnishings and finishes, and the concealed but easily revealed inner systems that make this yacht a joy to go long term cruising or shorter stay regatta racing.

Set for both modes, the pictures here tell a true story. And in operation the Contest 59CS is one of the quietest and smoothest yachts ever of her size and class. That reflects the core quality. At Contest we consider engineering equal to styling in our design.