The 50ft centre-cockpit sector has always been the pumping heart of Contest Yachts. Each model over the years the most popular, for the ever-improving balance of sailing ease, performance and onboard comforts. Two big suites and with a third-cabin option, yet still a yacht that can be sailed single-handed. A yacht for all occasions, crossing oceans or leisurely lunching in an idyllic bay. And this most recent 50ft-design from judel/vrolijk opens even more opportunity.

True to say, the new Contest 50CS resets the yard’s own gold standard at this length. The advanced hull-form achieving so well the three most key modern targets.

These are: performance up and down wind, stability for low angles of heel, and huge accommodation. And all accomplished with the inherent sea safety and comfort expected of a Contest. In the newly enabled and scaled deck and cabin plans, this brings also so much more of our larger yacht thinking. Superyacht qualities at 50ft. Also, good sustainable credentials with the option of integrated photovoltaic panels and a range of alternative synthetic teak-style decking.

The looks are all ‘Contest’. Lines evolved as ever from the learnings and leanings of each preceding model while also introducing new thinking. Meaning with this newly configured, deep topsides and beamier deck plan, the Contest 50CS now ably incorporates even more of the styling and detailing of the larger yachts in the range.

Check the low, sleek coachroof sweeping aft into the two-section cockpit with deep-seated and curved-for-comfort leisure cockpit forward. And behind, the twin helm stations framed by surrounding coamings for that extra sense of ocean safety. Yet still a simple central walkthrough easing and making safe deck entry and exit. Again, it’s that balance, an elegance that works – in every sense of the word. Just as aesthetics must work well, the practicalities of yacht operations are paramount.

This has long been the mantra at Contest Yachts and the advanced systems and arrangements here make for much eased handling and management. Sheets, lines and halyards lead unobtrusively to top of the range winches well positioned for both short- and fully crewed handing. The expansive flush deck spaces are made sensibly safe with well-placed handholds and grab points, with sturdy, tall guardrails all around. The flying of asymmetric sails is simplified with the A-frame set-up. The stowage of sails and kit made easy with well-proportioned deck lockers and hatches. All planned to make voyaging always enjoyable.

With wide beam and broad waterline running through to the stern, the increase in interior volume shows immediately below. The saloon proportions simply exceed convention. Not just because of beam and height, but in length. The extension of the aft master suite far into the stern opens so much more of the yacht’s middle for the benefit of saloon and guests.

The longitudinal corridor galley is now also two-sided, so again bigger than in previous 50CS models. A spacious, tall VIP suite forward has an island berth, and an optional third cabin can be had with bunks or as office or workroom. The master suite aft can have the innovative transom window premiered on the Contest 55CS.