With the Dusseldorf boat show called “boot Dusseldorf” set to open at the end of the month, all eyes are turning to the new designs that will be introduced there. Dutch builder Contest will not disappoint with the introduction of their new 56 CS, aft-cockpit, aft-cabin performance cruising sloop.
Contest is a venerable brand and known for designing and building luxury, spacious cruisers in the Scandinavia style that are stellar performers and capable world girdlers. The 56 CS will be no exception. In fact, as it follows in the wake of the successful 55 CS, the new hull, rig and accommodations plan make the boat a true evolution of excellence.
There are several improvements that have been built into the 56. Noticeable is the higher level of the transom which makes for a roomier dinghy garage under the cockpit. The retracting passarelle has been moved to one side to make room for a larger folding stern platform or garage door.
Following a recent trend, the 56 is offered with an optional cockpit arch with an almost full length T-top. The arch is a graceful shape and provides the base for the main sheet.
I like having the traveler and main sheet up top like this where it is no danger to the crew. The T-top will provide weather and sun protection and isinglass panels can be zipped into place on three sides to prove full protection.
The standard layout below decks has the master suite aft under the cockpit and this has been provided with huge hull windows that admit tons of natural light. The sea-going galley is in the passageway aft and is extremely well equipped for living aboard, cooking at sea and feeding numerous crew.
Forward, there is a guest double cabin in the fore peak and a bunk-berth cabin for two just aft of it. There is even room for a second bunk-berth cabin inside this voluminous hull so you could cruise comfortably with eight souls on board.
The saloon is spacious, full of natural light and finished with that unique, understated Scandinavian blend of light colored woods, handsome paneled floors and warm fabrics. The dinette table is in an L-shaped settee and under the table there are ottoman-style seats that will make dining for up to eight possible.
The quality that goes into every Contest yacht is mega-yacht-style with a very high degree of finish and systems that you will see on 100-footers.
The 56CS is sure to make a splash at boot Dusseldorf.
