1983 Contest 42 Center Cockpit Ketch Sold Boat in Panama City, FL US
42 Center Cockpit Ketch
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42 feet
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Fiberglass/Reinforced
Beautiful Classic Lines, Solid Construction, Loaded With Cruising Equipment
Major Refit 2012-2014
Be sure to watch the walkthrough video above to see for yourself!
This venerable blue water cruiser was designed by Dick Zaal and built in Holland by Conyplex Marine (Contest Yachts). Contest still builds iconic and sought-after sailing yachts today. All Contest Yachts are built to Lloyds standards and are comparable in quality to any domestic high-end boutique builder. Contest's of this era are very similar to many Hallberg Rassy designs.
"Borne Free" is a real beauty with her classic lines and decadent high gloss teak interior. Her balanced sail plan and powerful hull shape are easy to manage and comfortable in heavy seas.
This handsome ketch has undergone an almost complete restoration over the past 5 years. Her owners have poured their heart and soul into transforming this stunning cruiser into one of the prettiest and best-equipped boats on the market today.
Her teak decks have been removed and recored with foam and epoxy. She has all new electronics, new electrical, fresh Awlgrip paint, new fuel tank, and was re-powered in 2004. She is neat as a pin, and gleams inside and out.
This vessel is loaded with new and upgraded equipment. Take a close look at the full specs to get a complete understanding of everything this cruiser has to offer.
Highlights Included:
- 200 Gallons of Fresh Water, 90 Gallons Diesel
- Yanmar Diesel installed in 2004 (1500 hours)
- All New Raymarine Electronics in 2014! (entire list in full specs)
- New Corian Counters
- Navy Blue Awlgrip Hull Paint 2012
- Two Reverse Cycle Air Conditioners (16,000 and 10,000 BTU)
- Teak Decks Removed, and Re-cored With Structural Foam, Painted with Awlgrip (2014)
- 2000W/100A Freedom Inverter/ Charger
- Gimbaled Main Salon Table
- High Output Alternator w/ Spares
- (4) Four 8D House Bank (800AH Total)
- New 90 Gallon Stainless Fuel Tank
- Separate 12V Refrigerator and Freezer
- Bottom Painted Sept 2016
- New Cutlass Bearing and Drive Shaft 2017
Beautiful Classic Lines, Solid Construction, Loaded With Cruising Equipment
Major Refit 2012-2014
Be sure to watch the walkthrough video above to see for yourself!
This venerable blue water cruiser was designed by Dick Zaal and built in Holland by Conyplex Marine (Contest Yachts). Contest still builds iconic and sought-after sailing yachts today. All Contest Yachts are built to Lloyds standards and are comparable in quality to any domestic high-end boutique builder. Contest's of this era are very similar to many Hallberg Rassy designs.
"Borne Free" is a real beauty with her classic lines and decadent high gloss teak interior. Her balanced sail plan and powerful hull shape are easy to manage and comfortable in heavy seas.
This handsome ketch has undergone an almost complete restoration over the past 5 years. Her owners have poured their heart and soul into transforming this stunning cruiser into one of the prettiest and best-equipped boats on the market today.
Her teak decks have been removed and recored with foam and epoxy. She has all new electronics, new electrical, fresh Awlgrip paint, new fuel tank, and was re-powered in 2004. She is neat as a pin, and gleams inside and out.
This vessel is loaded with new and upgraded equipment. Take a close look at the full specs to get a complete understanding of everything this cruiser has to offer.
Highlights Included:
- 200 Gallons of Fresh Water, 90 Gallons Diesel
- Yanmar Diesel installed in 2004 (1500 hours)
- All New Raymarine Electronics in 2014! (entire list in full specs)
- New Corian Counters
- Navy Blue Awlgrip Hull Paint 2012
- Two Reverse Cycle Air Conditioners (16,000 and 10,000 BTU)
- Teak Decks Removed, and Re-cored With Structural Foam, Painted with Awlgrip (2014)
- 2000W/100A Freedom Inverter/ Charger
- Gimbaled Main Salon Table
- High Output Alternator w/ Spares
- (4) Four 8D House Bank (800AH Total)
- New 90 Gallon Stainless Fuel Tank
- Separate 12V Refrigerator and Freezer
- Bottom Painted Sept 2016
- New Cutlass Bearing and Drive Shaft 2017
Overview from around the web 1983 Contest 42 Center Cockpit Ketch
The 1983 Contest 42 Center Cockpit Ketch has garnered positive feedback from many sailors and boat enthusiasts over the years
Customers often praise its solid build quality and exceptional craftsmanship, which is a hallmark of Contest Yachts. The spacious center cockpit design enhances safety and comfort while underway, making it a popular choice for both long-distance cruising and shorter outings. Users frequently cite the boat's excellent stability and performance under sail, able to handle a variety of sea conditions with ease. The thoughtful layout of the interior provides ample space for living and storage, often highlighting the well-equipped galley and comfortable seating areas. Additionally, many owners appreciate the ketch rigging, which allows for easier handling of sails and better balance in lighter winds. Overall, the Contest 42 is often seen as a reliable and versatile vessel, perfect for serious cruisers looking for a well-engineered boat that doesn't compromise on comfort.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1983 Contest 42 Center Cockpit Ketch is a well-regarded cruising yacht known for its solid construction and seaworthiness. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons to help potential buyers better understand this vessel.
Pros
Robust Build Quality: The Contest brand is renowned for its high-quality craftsmanship, and the 42 Center Cockpit Ketch is no exception. The solid fiberglass hull and reinforced structure offer durability and long-lasting performance.
Seaworthiness: Designed for bluewater sailing, this ketch can handle a variety of sea conditions, making it ideal for long passages and offshore adventures.
Center Cockpit Design: The center cockpit layout provides excellent visibility and a safer environment for those on deck. It also allows for a spacious aft cabin, enhancing privacy and comfort for those on board.
Ample Living Space: With a well-thought-out interior layout, the Contest 42 offers generous living space, including comfortable berths, a functional galley, and a cozy saloon, making it suitable for extended cruising.
Rigging Flexibility: The ketch rig allows for easier handling and sail management, particularly in heavier winds. The smaller mizzen sail can be advantageous for maintaining control.
Storage Capacity: The yacht typically provides good storage options, both in the cabins and throughout the vessel, making it suitable for longer voyages.
Cons
Age of the Vessel: Being a 1983 model, some may find that certain systems or components may require upgrading or replacement, which can incur additional costs.
Ketch Rig Complexity: While the ketch rig provides advantages in sail management, it can also be more complex to rig and de-rig compared to other sailboat types, potentially leading to increased maintenance or operational learning curves.
Performance Trade-offs: Ketches tend to be slower compared to sloop-rigged counterparts, so for those seeking high-speed performance, this could be a drawback.
Rigging and Sail Maintenance: Sail and rig maintenance might require more attention due to the additional sails and components, especially as the vessel ages.
Market Availability: Depending on the region, finding specific parts or refitting options for this model may be more challenging due to its age and potential rarity.
Made For
The 1983 Contest 42 Center Cockpit Ketch is designed for sailing enthusiasts who appreciate a blend of classic craftsmanship and modern functionality. Ideal for experienced sailors and those seeking a reliable, comfortable cruising vessel, this ketch offers versatility with its dual mast rigging, allowing for more manageable sail handling in various wind conditions. Families or couples looking to embark on extended voyages will find the spacious interior thoughtfully designed for comfort and convenience. With its ample storage, well-appointed galley, and inviting living spaces, it’s perfect for long journeys or leisurely weekends on the water. The Contest 42 also appeals to those who enjoy the thrill of long-distance passages, as its sturdy construction and proven seaworthiness provide peace of mind while navigating open waters. Whether you're an adventurous sailor exploring distant shores or a leisurely cruiser enjoying coastal adventures, this boat caters to a wide range of sailing lifestyles.
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Panama City, FL

