New boats A look at the latest launches from around the globe Contest 49CS
Pointer 30 Pointer Yachts is a Dutch company that has a range of compact weekenders that look stylish and have a pleasing turn of speed. The new 30 is the largest in the range. The hull is relatively slender by modern standards and features a generous sail area. Down below there is a double berth forward and two singles aft. The brochure loses something in translation as it states: ‘With the design of the Pointer 30, a comfortable workplace and a nice coffee bar were paramount. An innovative bar with adjustable and rotating armchairs for optimal comfort.’ Anyway, it looks like a fun yacht and if it has a bar too, so much the better.
l Pointeryachts.com
Grand Soleil 40 Performance Grand Soleil is hoping to build on it’s success garnered in the ORC with their new 40 Performance. The boat is designed by Mateo Polli, who designed the ORC World Championship winning 44. The 40 is an evolution of that boat and light air performance is made a priority. The entrance is long and fine with maximum beam – a substantial 4.07m - kept well aft although the run is relatively fine providing relatively low wetted surface area on an even keel. l grandsoleil.net
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JUNE 2022 Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting
Contest Yachts has been providing top end blue water cruisers for decades now and has built a fine reputation. Their latest model sits in that key sub 50’ bracket and looks a strong rival to the newly launched Oyster 495. The boat is a bit of a break for Contest as it is their first sub 50’ yacht with an aft cockpit. Despite this, things are kept relatively snug for the cruiser, as the helms are kept well forward and just abaft a nicely enclosed cockpit that would keep you feeling secure in a gale of wind. The interior is typically classy and standard accommodation features generous berths aft by the standards of most aft cockpit yachts. l contestyachts.com
