7 Reasons why the Contest 63CS is a True Bluewater Yacht
In recent years, the market for sailing yachts designed for ocean cruising—commonly known as bluewater yachts—has seen a steady influx of new models. Among these, the Contest 63CS from the Dutch yard Contest Yachts stands out for its features designed to meet the demands of those sailing in open waters, even on extended passages. It’s no coincidence that the Contest 63CS recently won the prestigious European Yacht of the Year 2025 award in the bluewater category, a recognition granted by leading European yachting journalists. Let’s take a closer look at the strengths that make the Contest 63CS a yacht truly built for the oceans.
1. Build quality and safety
Contest Yachts has always been known for the robustness and high construction quality of its boats. The Contest 63CS is built in composite, with reinforced structures and meticulous control throughout every stage of production. This ensures safety and reliability even in the most demanding weather conditions.
2. Naval architecture by Judel/Vrolijk
The Contest 63CS was designed by Judel/Vrolijk, one of the most respected naval architecture firms worldwide. The result is a yacht that delivers excellent sailing performance, with hull lines that provide comfort even when the sea turns rough.
3. Designed for short-handed sailing
A key aspect of bluewater yachts is the ability to be easily managed by a reduced crew. The Contest 63CS fully meets this requirement, with streamlined sail handling systems and an efficient deck layout that allow a couple or a small family crew to sail the boat safely and without undue effort.
4. Unique interior layout
One of the defining features of the Contest 63CS is its unique interior layout, available in 3, 4, or 5-cabin configurations. Particularly in the 3 and 4-cabin versions, there are two identical VIP suites forward of the saloon, each with en-suite facilities. This is a rare setup for yachts under 70 feet, significantly enhancing the onboard experience for guests during long passages.
5. Comfort and habitability
The interiors of the Contest 63CS, designed by Wetzels Brown Partners, are conceived to ensure habitability and comfort on long journeys. Spacious communal areas, abundant natural light, and high-quality materials make the Contest 63CS a pleasant yacht to live aboard daily, even during extended offshore cruising.
6. Technological innovation for safety
Safety during bluewater cruising also depends on the reliability of onboard systems. The Contest 63CS is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, with intuitive and dependable instruments for monitoring and controlling the yacht in all conditions.
7. Balanced performance in all conditions
The Contest 63CS is designed to handle both light winds and tougher conditions, thanks to a well-thought-out balance between sail area, keel, and rudder. This versatility makes it a strong choice for those sailing in diverse waters without compromising performance or safety.
Our conclusion
The Contest 63CS is not designed for everyone, whether due to price or its specialized features. It is instead a yacht for serious sailors, those seeking a reliable, comfortable, and high-performance solution for long-distance cruising. This is precisely what makes the Contest 63CS a true bluewater yacht.