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Sailboat Specifications

Contest 37

Masthead Sloop · Fin With Rudder On Skeg

Designed by Dick Zaal · Built by Contest Yachts · First built 1995

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LOA 37.66 ft  ·  Beam 11.98 ft  ·  Displacement 21,059.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 840.66 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin With Rudder On Skeg
About the Contest 37 Sailboat

Built during Contest Yachts' golden era of the mid-1990s, this Dutch-designed cruiser represents the shipyard's commitment to quality construction and seaworthy performance. Designer Dick Zaal created a balanced platform that excels in both coastal and offshore sailing, with proportions that favor comfort and stability over outright speed. With only 16 hulls completed between 1995 and 1997, the Contest 37 remains a relatively rare find on the market. The masthead sloop configuration and moderate displacement make it well-suited for serious cruising couples or small families who prioritize build quality and sea-keeping ability. The fin keel with rudder mounted on a skeg provides good directional stability while maintaining reasonable performance. Contest's reputation for exceptional fiberglass construction and attention to detail shines through in this model. The comfort ratio of 36.03 indicates a motion that's easy on crew during extended passages, while the capsize screening value of 1.74 suggests good stability characteristics for offshore work. The substantial ballast-to-displacement ratio contributes to confident handling in challenging conditions. This yacht appeals to sailors seeking a well-built European cruiser with the pedigree and craftsmanship that Contest Yachts is renowned for delivering.

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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 37.66 ft / 11.48 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 31.14 ft / 9.49 m
Beam 11.98 ft / 3.65 m
Max Draft 6.73 ft / 2.05 m
Displacement 21,059.00 lb / 9,552 kg
Ballast 6,393.00 lb / 2,900 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 840.66 ft² / 78.10 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Dick Zaal
Builder Contest Yachts
First Built 1995
Last Built 1997
Number Built 16
Owner Reviews

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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Volvo Penta
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 50
Fuel Capacity 40 gals / 150 L
Water Capacity 62 gals / 234 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Contest 37's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Contest 37 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 17.71. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Contest 37's comfort ratio?

The Contest 37 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 36.03. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Contest 37 safe for offshore sailing?

The Contest 37 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.74. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Contest 37?

The theoretical hull speed of the Contest 37 is 7.48 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Contest 37 weigh?

The Contest 37 has a displacement of 21,059.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 37.66 ft.

Who designed the Contest 37?

The Contest 37 was designed by Dick Zaal, first built in 1995.