Contest 25

Contest 25 Sailing Yacht from 1985 – Compact Classic for Recreational SailingGeneral Characteristics of the Contest 25The Contest 25 is a polyester sailing yacht of Dutch manufacture, built in 1985. With a length of 7.50 meters and a width of 2.50 meters, this vessel falls within the category of compact cabin sailboats. The draft is 1.20 meters, making the ship suitable for both inland waters and shallower coastal areas. The clearance height of approximately 10 meters allows it to pass under most high fixed bridges.The hull is made of polyester, a commonly used material in yacht building due to its low-maintenance properties. The boat features tiller steering and a single rudder, providing direct control and easy maneuverability. The steering is located outside in the cockpit.Contest 25 Now in the Online Auction. Everyone Can Bid Until December 15, 2025.Interior and AccommodationInside, the Contest 25 offers four fixed berths, divided between the cabin and the forepeak. The headroom is 1.60 meters, which is typical for a ship of this size. The layout is functional, with a simple stove and mattresses available. The interior is equipped with basic amenities such as a manual toilet, with the discharge going directly into open water. The toilet installation is currently not fully operational and requires attention.The boat comes with a complete interior, including crockery and cutlery. Although the interior is described as dated, it is functional for short stays and weekend trips. Sailing Equipment and RiggingThe Contest 25 is equipped with an aluminum mast and has two sails: a mainsail and a genoa. The foresail is equipped with a furling system, which simplifies reefing and handling the sail. The condition of the sails is described as functional. The rigging is operational and suitable for recreational sailing on inland waters and sheltered coastal areas.The boat is equipped with a sprayhood, fenders, lines, a swim ladder, and a guardrail. The sprayhood and mooring lines need replacement. The navigation lights need to be checked or replaced.Engine and Technical InstallationThe Contest 25 is equipped with a Sole inboard diesel engine of 11 hp. The engine is electrically started and has a consumption of approximately 0.8 liters per hour. The engine has about 350 operating hours and is operational. The fuel tank has a capacity of 40 liters. Onboard instruments include a fuel tank gauge, temperature gauge, and tachometer.The electrical installation includes a battery charger and alternator. The batteries are functional but are no longer in optimal condition. Maintenance and Condition of the BoatThe boat was last taken out of the water for maintenance in 2025. The last antifouling treatment was in 2022. No signs of osmosis have been detected. The boat has some known defects, including a not fully operational toilet, outdated sprayhood and mooring lines, and defective navigation lights.Documentation of the boat is not available. The shipyard where the boat was built burned down in the past, so no construction drawings or history can be requested. The construction number cannot be found.Usage and Sailing ExperienceThe current owner purchased the boat in 2022 in Zeeland and sailed it via the standing mast route to Friesland. Since then, it has been sailed on the Frisian lakes, the IJsselmeer, and the Wadden Sea. The boat has been used for pleasure cruising and weekend trips. According to the owner, the ship is comfortable to use and easy to sail, making it suitable for novice sailors. The sailing characteristics are described as stable and course-steady, without the ship quickly going off course.SummaryThe Contest 25 from 1985 is a compact sailboat with functional equipment and a simple, practical layout. The ship is suitable for recreational use on inland waters and sheltered coastal areas. With a working engine, functional sailing equipment, and basic amenities onboard, this boat offers opportunities for sailors looking for an entry-level model with character. Some parts require attention or replacement, providing room for personalization and improvement.