Contest 33 now in the online auction. everyone can bid until 24 August 2026.
Classic Contest 33 ready for adventure
Anyone looking for a sailing yacht with character, a proven design and a practical size for both weekend trips and longer voyages will quickly end up with the Contest 33. This 1972 Contest 33, built by Conyplex in Alkmaar, is the kind of boat you look at with confidence: a classic S-shaped hull below the waterline, a pleasant layout and an appearance that suits a true cruising sailor. With her length of 10.00 metres, beam of 3.15 metres and draft of 1.60 metres, she is suitable for a wide range of cruising areas, from coastal waters to inland waterways. Headroom inside is approximately 1.90 metres, which makes staying on board comfortable even for taller people.
The boat has been used at sea and has a special history. A previous owner even sailed her across the ocean to Brazil and back. For that trip, additional diesel tanks were installed at the stern, which were later removed again. That story fits what this type of Contest sailing yacht often evokes: a solid, classic sailing yacht built to cover miles and to be a pleasant home underway.
Contest 33 now in the online auction. Everyone can bid up to and including 24 August 2026.
What makes this Contest 33 interesting for a buyer?
This Contest 33 combines a classic foundation with a lot of technical attention in recent years. She was taken over by the current owner in 2021 and has since been addressed and modernised in several areas. In 2024, the complete rigging was renewed—an upgrade that for many buyers immediately makes a difference in ease of use and confidence underway. In 2025, two batteries were installed, she was hauled out again for maintenance and antifouling was applied. Practical upgrades were also added, such as hot water, an outdoor shower and an electric toilet. For anyone searching for “Contest 33 for saleâ€, “classic 10-metre sailing yacht†or “sailing yacht with new riggingâ€, this is a combination you don’t come across every day.
How does she run and manoeuvre under engine?
Under power she is driven by a Lombardini 1003M inboard diesel engine of 27 hp from 2015, with approximately 2,520 running hours. The engine is operational and suits the size of the boat well. Reported consumption is around 2.2 litres per hour, with a 160-litre diesel tank. Cruising speed is approximately 11.2 km/h and maximum about 12 km/h. Harbour manoeuvring is supported by an electric bow thruster, which is especially pleasant in wind or tight berths. Steering is via a wheel in the cockpit, improving visibility while underway and when docking.
What is the comfort on board like during holidays?
On board she is set up for comfortable stays with four fixed berths. The accommodation includes, among other things, a dinette, cooker and refrigerator, making weekends away or longer holidays very doable. With a 400-litre water tank there is ample capacity for several days on board, especially in combination with hot water and a shower. The toilet is electric and the toilet discharge goes directly overboard. In addition, a 20-litre holding tank is present. This makes her particularly attractive for buyers searching for “sailing yacht with shower and hot water†or “cruising yacht with comfortable interior spaceâ€.
Which navigation equipment and gear are included?
This Contest 33 is equipped with an extensive navigation package, including AIS, radar, VHF radio, GPS and chartplotter, plus autopilot, depth sounder, log and wind instrument. That makes her suitable for those who like to plan longer trips and want to maintain good situational awareness underway. The electrical system includes 12V and 220V, with alternator and solar panel support. Outside you’ll find practical features such as a sprayhood, davits, teak deck, guardrails, swim platform and swim ladder. Safety equipment is present in the form of a liferaft and a self-draining cockpit, supplemented by an electric bilge pump.
What about sailing and rigging?
She has one steel mast and sails with two sails: jib and mainsail. The sail plan is set up practically with an in-mast furling mainsail and a headsail furling system, making reefing and stowing sails easier. The condition of the sails is described as good. The most notable point is that the complete rigging was renewed in 2024—an important plus for anyone looking for a Contest 33 that is ready to sail immediately without first planning a major rigging project.
Finally, documentation is available in the form of proof of purchase. The boat is in reasonable condition and therefore offers an honest basis: a classic GRP sailing yacht with many recent improvements, but also room to further tailor her to your own taste. A great opportunity for anyone wanting to buy a Contest 33 via BoatAuction, with a warm story, practical equipment and an inviting look for many new miles.
