Contest Yachts: A Legacy of Craftsmanship at Autumn Boat Shows

Contest Yachts, a name synonymous with deep family values and exceptional craftsmanship, is set to make a significant impact at this autumn’s boat shows across Europe and the USA. The Dutch semi-custom yacht builder will showcase four of its most celebrated models at three key events, highlighting its commitment to quality and innovation in the yachting world.

A Showcase of Excellence

At the Cannes Yachting Festival, running from September 9-14, Contest Yachts will present the award-winning Contest 63CS, alongside its smaller sibling, the Contest 49CS. Meanwhile, the Southampton International Boat Show (September 19-28) will feature the multi-award-winning Contest 55CS. Across the Atlantic, the Annapolis Sailboat Show will mark the US debut of the Contest 50CS, which is also participating in the prestigious Cruising World Boat of the Year 2026 program.

Cannes Yachting Festival: Contest 63CS & 49CS

A Blend of Luxury and Performance

The Cannes Yachting Festival will spotlight the Contest 63CS, recently crowned the European Yacht of the Year 2025 in the luxury category. Designed by the renowned judel/vrolijk & co, with interiors crafted by superyacht specialists Wetzels Brown, this 19-meter luxury cruiser has garnered widespread acclaim. Its standout features include an innovative transformable aft social deck and mirror-image VIP guest suites, a layout that is both unique and functional.

The 63CS is not just about aesthetics; its performance and bluewater pedigree have also received high praise. Reviewers have noted its ease of handling and impressive performance even in light winds, thanks to high-spec systems like electric winches and hydraulic furlers. The tranquil ambiance below decks, enhanced by expansive coachroof glazing, creates a serene environment for relaxation.

Family-Friendly Design: Contest 49CS

Complementing the 63CS at Cannes will be the Contest 49CS, the yard’s first model in the 50-foot sector. This model features a cabin arrangement that includes twin aft cabins and a forward owner’s suite, making it ideal for family cruising or sailing with friends. The 49CS retains Contest’s hallmark dual-cockpit style, offering a spacious aft deck and a fold-down bathing platform, all while ensuring a secure twin-helm position.

Built with the same high-spec composite construction as its larger counterpart, the 49CS delivers exceptional volume and ergonomics, making it a superb family cruiser with elegant detailing and impressive performance credentials.

Southampton International Boat Show: Contest 55CS

Award-Winning Bluewater Cruiser

At the Southampton International Boat Show, Contest Yachts will present the Contest 55CS, a bluewater cruiser that has already earned accolades such as the European Yacht of the Year and British Yachting Awards in the luxury performance category. At 17 meters, the 55CS embodies the power, performance, and build ethos that Contest is known for.

Designed by judel/vrolijk & co and crafted to Lloyd’s Register standards, the 55CS combines sumptuous styling with exceptional ergonomics. Light-filled cabins with expansive hull windows and thoughtful interior styling create a practical yet opulent atmosphere. The yacht features intuitive control systems, powered systems at fingertip reach, and automated conveniences, ensuring ease of operation for owner-sailors.

Annapolis Sailboat Show: USA Premiere of the Contest 50CS

A New Generation of Cruisers

The Annapolis Sailboat Show will mark the American debut of the Contest 50CS, a new generation dual centre cockpit yacht that revitalizes the concept with superyacht-inspired volume and assured performance. Designed for both upwind and downwind sailing, the 50CS offers remarkable ease of handling, making it suitable for confident single-handed sailing.

With a modern hull form and light-filled interiors, the 50CS balances luxury and practicality. It features a generous aft master suite, a welcoming forward guest cabin, and the option for a third cabin. On deck, safety and control are prioritized with twin helms and power-assisted sail handling, while below, extensive noise-damping measures ensure a calm onboard experience.

A Rich Past, A Promising Future

As the autumn 2025 show season unfolds, Contest Yachts is poised to present a fleet that bridges its rich heritage with forward-looking design. The 63CS exemplifies superyacht finish in a manageable length, while the 49CS introduces a family-friendly platform. The 55CS continues to embody award-winning performance, and the 50CS signals Contest’s growing presence in North America.

With a legacy of craftsmanship and innovation, Contest Yachts is not just showcasing its latest models; it is also reaffirming its commitment to inspiring sailors on both sides of the Atlantic. As Yachting World’s Toby Hodges aptly noted, “Contest Yachts is a yard with a rich past and a promising future.” This autumn, that future is on full display, inviting enthusiasts to experience the excellence that defines Contest Yachts.