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Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027

Curated byKory White · Fractional CRO · Maryland

📖 2,941 words🗓️ Published Aug 8, 2026

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Direct Answer

The 10 best contender boat models 2027 are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

1. Contender 39 FA

Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027 — figure 1

The Contender 39 FA ranks first because it delivers the most complete balance of offshore range, seakeeping, fishability, and rigging headroom in the lineup. Its 39-foot stepped-V hull carries a 535-gallon fuel capacity and supports up to quad 450-hp outboards for 1,800 total horsepower, with a starting MSRP of $1,095,000. The wraparound Fish Around bow opens 360-degree fighting room, and the helm features triple multifunction displays and a hardtop with rocket launchers.

This boat is for hardcore offshore crews running long canyon and tournament miles, not casual bay users. It trades away affordability and modest operating costs, as quad-engine fuel burn and dock fees are substantial. Compared to the 44 FA below it, the 39 FA is more maneuverable and easier to manage while still offering the same 1,800-hp ceiling, making it the better all-around choice for most serious anglers.

2. Contender 35 ST

Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027 — figure 2

The Contender 35 ST ranks second because it offers tournament-bred speed and fishability in a more manageable package than the flagship 39 FA. Its 35-foot stepped hull reaches top speeds past 60 mph with triple 300-hp outboards, carries 400 gallons of fuel, and starts at $695,000. The layout includes a wide bow casting platform, insulated fish boxes, and twin transom livewells, while the helm supports dual large-format MFDs under a fishing hardtop.

This boat is for tournament teams who want flagship capability without the 39's seven-figure price and 11-foot-6-inch beam. It trades away some fuel capacity and cockpit space compared to the 39 FA, but it runs harder and handles more nimbly. Compared to the 32 ST below it, the 35 ST offers significantly more speed and range, justifying its higher cost for crews that travel to distant fishing grounds.

3. Contender 32 ST

Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027 — figure 3

The Contender 32 ST ranks third because its 32-foot stepped hull is arguably the most respected in the Contender catalog, earning a reputation for slicing through chop. Rigged with twin or triple 300-hp outboards, it pushes past 55 mph while carrying 300 gallons of fuel, with a starting MSRP of $439,000. The cockpit features a transom livewell, in-deck fish boxes, and a hardtop with rod storage, plus an enclosed console head for longer days.

This boat is for serious anglers wanting offshore reach in a 32-foot hull that's easier to own than the 35 ST. It trades away some top-end speed and fuel capacity compared to the 35 ST, but it's more affordable and trailerable. Compared to the 30 ST below it, the 32 ST offers a larger beam and more fuel, making it better suited for true bluewater runs rather than nearshore mixed use.

4. Contender 30 ST

Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027 — figure 4

The Contender 30 ST ranks fourth because it delivers the stepped-hull formula at a 30-foot size that balances offshore capability with easier ownership. Twin 300-hp outboards push it past 55 mph, it carries 252 gallons of fuel, and it starts at $319,000. The clean fishing deck includes a transom livewell, in-deck fish storage, and a hardtop with rocket launchers, while the console offers storage and an optional head.

This boat is for anglers who fish a mix of nearshore reefs and offshore structure and want a faster, more capable boat than the 28 Sport. It trades away the 32 ST's larger fuel capacity and enclosed head, limiting its true long-range potential. Compared to the 28 Sport below it, the 30 ST offers a bigger fuel tank and more speed, making it a better pick for those who regularly run 20-plus miles offshore.

5. Contender 28 Sport

Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027 — figure 5

The Contender 28 Sport ranks fifth because it provides a versatile 28-foot deep-V center console that handles a range of conditions from inlets to moderate offshore structure. Twin 250-hp or 300-hp outboards deliver speeds near 50 mph, it carries 200 gallons of fuel, and it starts at $229,000. The layout includes a transom livewell, in-floor fish boxes, and bow casting room, with dry storage and an optional portable head in the console.

This boat is for versatile anglers who trailer their boat and fish varied water, from bays to nearshore reefs. It trades away the 30 ST's top speed and fuel capacity, making it less ideal for long offshore runs. Compared to the 25 Bay below it, the 28 Sport offers a deeper-V hull and more range, but it costs significantly more and draws more water, so it's less suited for skinny-water flats fishing.

6. Contender 25 Bay

Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027 — figure 6

The Contender 25 Bay ranks sixth as the best value pick because it brings Contender's offshore-grade build quality to a shallow-draft bay hull at a starting MSRP of just $159,900. A single or twin 300-hp outboard setup pushes it near 55 mph, it carries 96 gallons of fuel, and it draws a skinny 1 foot 1 inch for poling shallow flats. The layout features fore and aft casting platforms, a recessed transom livewell, and elevated console storage.

This boat is for inshore and skinny-water anglers who want Contender quality on a budget, but it's not built for serious bluewater runs. It trades away the 28 Sport's offshore range and deep-V ride, limiting its use to flats and nearshore reefs.

7. Contender 44 FA

Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027 — figure 7

The Contender 44 FA ranks seventh because it is the largest and longest-range center console Contender builds, with a 44-foot hull carrying 620 gallons of fuel. Quad 450-hp outboards deliver 1,800 total horsepower, and the boat starts at $1,495,000, the highest price in the lineup. The wraparound Fish Around cockpit, expanded console with a full head and berth, triple MFD helm, and oversized transom livewell system make it a marlin-class tournament rig and long-range cruiser.

This boat is for big-money crews who prioritize outright size and range over every other factor, and it demands a large slip and crew to run. It trades away the 39 FA's maneuverability and lower operating costs for a larger cockpit and overnight capability. Compared to the 39 FA above it, the 44 FA offers 85 more gallons of fuel and a berth, but its higher price and bulk make it less practical for most tournament teams.

8. Contender 38 ST

Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027 — figure 8

The Contender 38 ST ranks eighth because it offers flagship-grade speed and range in a 38-foot stepped hull that slots between the 35 and 39. Triple 350-hp or 400-hp outboards push it past 60 mph, it carries 475 gallons of fuel, and it starts at $795,000. The deep, dry cockpit includes twin transom livewells, insulated fish boxes, and a fishing hardtop carrying dual large MFDs. It seats 11 and draws about 2 feet 2 inches.

This boat is for tournament crews who want the 39 FA's pace without its full price, and it's a serious bluewater platform for long runs. It trades away the 39 FA's 360-degree Fish Around bow and 60 additional gallons of fuel, making it slightly less versatile for live-bait fishing. Compared to the 33 Tournament below it, the 38 ST offers significantly more speed and range, but it costs over $300,000 more, so it's for crews with bigger budgets.

9. Contender 24 Sport

Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027 — figure 9

The Contender 24 Sport ranks ninth because it is the most trailerable offshore-style pick, with a 24-foot deep-V hull that handles nearshore chop well above its size. A single or twin outboard setup up to 300 hp delivers speeds near 50 mph, it carries 130 gallons of fuel, and it starts at $139,900. The simple, fishing-first deck includes a transom livewell, in-floor fish boxes, and dry storage, with an optional portable head in the console.

This boat is for anglers wanting a trailerable, fishable deep-V on a tighter budget, and it's easy to tow with a standard pickup. It trades away the 25 Bay's shallow draft and casting platforms, making it less suited for flats fishing. Compared to the 33 Tournament below it, the 24 Sport is far more affordable and manageable, but it lacks the range and tournament-grade bait systems, so it's best for nearshore days rather than serious offshore competition.

10. Contender 33 Tournament

Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027 — figure 10

The Contender 33 Tournament ranks tenth because it is a purpose-built live-bait tournament machine with oversized pressurized livewells and a clean wraparound cockpit. Its 33-foot stepped hull carries 320 gallons of fuel and runs past 55 mph on triple 300-hp outboards, with a starting MSRP of $469,000. The layout emphasizes bait systems, in-deck fish boxes, and a hardtop with rocket launchers and dual MFDs, while the console houses an enclosed head.

This boat is for live-bait tournament anglers who prioritize competition layout over family versatility, and it trades away day-cruising comfort for single-purpose fishing. Compared to the 24 Sport above it, the 33 Tournament offers far more range and bait capacity, but it costs over $300,000 more and demands triple-engine maintenance. It's a dedicated tool for serious competitors, not a casual all-rounder.

How we ranked these

We measured each Contender model against six weighted criteria: build quality and reliability (25%), on-water performance and seakeeping (20%), value and price (15%), comfort and layout (15%), fishing features and tech (15%), and resale value (10%). Data came from published reviews by Boating Magazine, BoatTEST, boats.com, Salt Water Sportsman, Discover Boating, and Contender's official build sheets.

Models that excelled in rough-water capability and fishability ranked highest, while those with weaknesses in these areas dropped despite other strengths.

We deliberately ignored marketing-driven metrics like top speed bragging rights and engine-count prestige. For most offshore anglers, a few extra miles per hour matter less than fuel range, livewell capacity, and a dry, soft ride in a head sea. We also excluded subjective lifestyle factors like watersports or cruising comfort, since this ranking targets serious bluewater fishermen and tournament crews. The focus remained on real-world offshore utility and long-term ownership value.

What to look for

When choosing between these Contenders, prioritize hull design and seakeeping above all. The stepped-V hulls like the 32 ST and 35 ST run faster and drier offshore, while the bay hull of the 25 Bay trades that for shallow draft. Match engine rigging and fuel capacity to your typical runs—the 39 FA and 44 FA carry 535 and 620 gallons for canyon trips, but the 24 Sport's 130 gallons suits nearshore days.

Check livewell volume, pressurization, and fish-box insulation, especially for tournament work.

The biggest mistake buyers make is chasing headline top speed or maximum engine count. For most crews, fuel range, livewell capacity, and a comfortable ride in a head sea determine fishing success far more than a few extra mph. Another common error is ignoring resale value—Contender hulls hold value strongly, but options like quad engines or oversized fuel tanks can hurt resale if they limit the buyer pool. Buy on hull design, range, and fishing systems, not bragging rights.

FAQ

Which Contender model is the best overall for 2027?

The Contender 39 FA earns our top spot, balancing offshore range, quad-engine power up to 1,800 hp, a 535-gallon fuel capacity, and a 360-degree Fish Around cockpit with no real weakness on big water.

What is the best value Contender?

The Contender 25 Bay, starting near $159,900, brings Contender's offshore-grade hull quality to a shallow-draft bay boat for less than a fifth of the flagship's price.

Which Contender is best for tournament fishing?

The Contender 33 Tournament is purpose-built for live-bait competition with oversized pressurized livewells, while the 35 ST and 38 ST add speed and range for traveling tournament crews.

Which Contender has the longest range?

The Contender 44 FA carries 620 gallons of fuel with quad 450-hp outboards, giving it the longest offshore reach in the lineup, followed by the 39 FA at 535 gallons.

Are Contender boats good in rough water?

Yes. Contender's deep and stepped-V hulls are widely respected for slicing through a head sea, with the 32 ST in particular earning a reputation for sharp rough-water seakeeping.

Which Contender is easiest to trailer?

The Contender 24 Sport at 24 feet and the 25 Bay at 25 feet are the most trailerable, while the 28 Sport remains towable for buyers with the right rig.

What is the starting price of the Contender 44 FA?

The Contender 44 FA starts at $1,495,000, making it the most expensive model in the lineup. It offers the largest hull, 620 gallons of fuel, and quad 450-hp outboards for extreme range and size.

How many people can the Contender 39 FA seat?

The Contender 39 FA seats up to 12 people, making it suitable for day runs with a full crew. Its 11-foot-6-inch beam provides ample space, and the Fish Around bow design offers 360-degree fighting room.

What engines are available on the Contender 32 ST?

The Contender 32 ST can be rigged with twin or triple 300-hp outboards, pushing it past 55 mph. It carries 300 gallons of fuel and offers flexibility for buyers who want a balance of speed and efficiency.

Does the Contender 25 Bay have a casting platform?

Yes, the Contender 25 Bay features fore and aft casting platforms, making it ideal for sight fishing on shallow flats. It draws only 1 foot 1 inch, allowing access to skinny water, and seats up to 6 people.

Sources

flowchart TD S["Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027"] S --> N0["1. Contender 39 FA"] N0 --> N1["2. Contender 35 ST"] N1 --> N2["3. Contender 32 ST"] N2 --> N3["4. Contender 30 ST"]

flowchart LR C["Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027"] C --> H0["9. Contender 24 Sport"] C --> H1["10. Contender 33 Tournament"] C --> H2["How we ranked these"] C --> H3["What to look for"]

Related on PULSE

[More contender boat models 2027 rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
[PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
[Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

Download:

## Direct Answer

The 10 best contender boat models 2027 are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

## 1. Contender 39 FA

![Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027 — figure 1](/assets/qa/bt0135-b1.jpg)




```mermaid
flowchart TD
  S["Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027"]
  S --> N0["1. Contender 39 FA"]
  N0 --> N1["2. Contender 35 ST"]
  N1 --> N2["3. Contender 32 ST"]
  N2 --> N3["4. Contender 30 ST"]
```


The Contender 39 FA ranks first because it delivers the most complete balance of offshore range, seakeeping, fishability, and rigging headroom in the lineup. Its 39-foot stepped-V hull carries a 535-gallon fuel capacity and supports up to quad 450-hp outboards for 1,800 total horsepower, with a starting MSRP of $1,095,000. The wraparound Fish Around bow opens 360-degree fighting room, and the helm features triple multifunction displays and a hardtop with rocket launchers.

This boat is for hardcore offshore crews running long canyon and tournament miles, not casual bay users. It trades away affordability and modest operating costs, as quad-engine fuel burn and dock fees are substantial. Compared to the 44 FA below it, the 39 FA is more maneuverable and easier to manage while still offering the same 1,800-hp ceiling, making it the better all-around choice for most serious anglers.


## 2. Contender 35 ST

![Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027 — figure 2](/assets/qa/bt0135-b2.jpg)




```mermaid
flowchart LR
  C["Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027"]
  C --> H0["9. Contender 24 Sport"]
  C --> H1["10. Contender 33 Tournament"]
  C --> H2["How we ranked these"]
  C --> H3["What to look for"]
```


The Contender 35 ST ranks second because it offers tournament-bred speed and fishability in a more manageable package than the flagship 39 FA. Its 35-foot stepped hull reaches top speeds past 60 mph with triple 300-hp outboards, carries 400 gallons of fuel, and starts at $695,000. The layout includes a wide bow casting platform, insulated fish boxes, and twin transom livewells, while the helm supports dual large-format MFDs under a fishing hardtop.

This boat is for tournament teams who want flagship capability without the 39's seven-figure price and 11-foot-6-inch beam. It trades away some fuel capacity and cockpit space compared to the 39 FA, but it runs harder and handles more nimbly. Compared to the 32 ST below it, the 35 ST offers significantly more speed and range, justifying its higher cost for crews that travel to distant fishing grounds.

## 3. Contender 32 ST

![Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027 — figure 3](/assets/qa/bt0135-b3.jpg)




The Contender 32 ST ranks third because its 32-foot stepped hull is arguably the most respected in the Contender catalog, earning a reputation for slicing through chop. Rigged with twin or triple 300-hp outboards, it pushes past 55 mph while carrying 300 gallons of fuel, with a starting MSRP of $439,000. The cockpit features a transom livewell, in-deck fish boxes, and a hardtop with rod storage, plus an enclosed console head for longer days.


This boat is for serious anglers wanting offshore reach in a 32-foot hull that's easier to own than the 35 ST. It trades away some top-end speed and fuel capacity compared to the 35 ST, but it's more affordable and trailerable. Compared to the 30 ST below it, the 32 ST offers a larger beam and more fuel, making it better suited for true bluewater runs rather than nearshore mixed use.

## 4. Contender 30 ST

![Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027 — figure 4](/assets/qa/bt0135-b4.jpg)




The Contender 30 ST ranks fourth because it delivers the stepped-hull formula at a 30-foot size that balances offshore capability with easier ownership. Twin 300-hp outboards push it past 55 mph, it carries 252 gallons of fuel, and it starts at $319,000. The clean fishing deck includes a transom livewell, in-deck fish storage, and a hardtop with rocket launchers, while the console offers storage and an optional head.


This boat is for anglers who fish a mix of nearshore reefs and offshore structure and want a faster, more capable boat than the 28 Sport. It trades away the 32 ST's larger fuel capacity and enclosed head, limiting its true long-range potential. Compared to the 28 Sport below it, the 30 ST offers a bigger fuel tank and more speed, making it a better pick for those who regularly run 20-plus miles offshore.

## 5. Contender 28 Sport

![Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027 — figure 5](/assets/qa/bt0135-b5.jpg)




The Contender 28 Sport ranks fifth because it provides a versatile 28-foot deep-V center console that handles a range of conditions from inlets to moderate offshore structure. Twin 250-hp or 300-hp outboards deliver speeds near 50 mph, it carries 200 gallons of fuel, and it starts at $229,000. The layout includes a transom livewell, in-floor fish boxes, and bow casting room, with dry storage and an optional portable head in the console.


This boat is for versatile anglers who trailer their boat and fish varied water, from bays to nearshore reefs. It trades away the 30 ST's top speed and fuel capacity, making it less ideal for long offshore runs. Compared to the 25 Bay below it, the 28 Sport offers a deeper-V hull and more range, but it costs significantly more and draws more water, so it's less suited for skinny-water flats fishing.

## 6. Contender 25 Bay

![Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027 — figure 6](/assets/qa/bt0135-b6.jpg)




The Contender 25 Bay ranks sixth as the best value pick because it brings Contender's offshore-grade build quality to a shallow-draft bay hull at a starting MSRP of just $159,900. A single or twin 300-hp outboard setup pushes it near 55 mph, it carries 96 gallons of fuel, and it draws a skinny 1 foot 1 inch for poling shallow flats. The layout features fore and aft casting platforms, a recessed transom livewell, and elevated console storage.

This boat is for inshore and skinny-water anglers who want Contender quality on a budget, but it's not built for serious bluewater runs. It trades away the 28 Sport's offshore range and deep-V ride, limiting its use to flats and nearshore reefs.


## 7. Contender 44 FA

![Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027 — figure 7](/assets/qa/bt0135-b7.jpg)




The Contender 44 FA ranks seventh because it is the largest and longest-range center console Contender builds, with a 44-foot hull carrying 620 gallons of fuel. Quad 450-hp outboards deliver 1,800 total horsepower, and the boat starts at $1,495,000, the highest price in the lineup. The wraparound Fish Around cockpit, expanded console with a full head and berth, triple MFD helm, and oversized transom livewell system make it a marlin-class tournament rig and long-range cruiser.

This boat is for big-money crews who prioritize outright size and range over every other factor, and it demands a large slip and crew to run. It trades away the 39 FA's maneuverability and lower operating costs for a larger cockpit and overnight capability. Compared to the 39 FA above it, the 44 FA offers 85 more gallons of fuel and a berth, but its higher price and bulk make it less practical for most tournament teams.


## 8. Contender 38 ST

![Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027 — figure 8](/assets/qa/bt0135-b8.jpg)




The Contender 38 ST ranks eighth because it offers flagship-grade speed and range in a 38-foot stepped hull that slots between the 35 and 39. Triple 350-hp or 400-hp outboards push it past 60 mph, it carries 475 gallons of fuel, and it starts at $795,000. The deep, dry cockpit includes twin transom livewells, insulated fish boxes, and a fishing hardtop carrying dual large MFDs. It seats 11 and draws about 2 feet 2 inches.

This boat is for tournament crews who want the 39 FA's pace without its full price, and it's a serious bluewater platform for long runs. It trades away the 39 FA's 360-degree Fish Around bow and 60 additional gallons of fuel, making it slightly less versatile for live-bait fishing. Compared to the 33 Tournament below it, the 38 ST offers significantly more speed and range, but it costs over $300,000 more, so it's for crews with bigger budgets.

## 9. Contender 24 Sport

![Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027 — figure 9](/assets/qa/bt0135-b9.jpg)




The Contender 24 Sport ranks ninth because it is the most trailerable offshore-style pick, with a 24-foot deep-V hull that handles nearshore chop well above its size. A single or twin outboard setup up to 300 hp delivers speeds near 50 mph, it carries 130 gallons of fuel, and it starts at $139,900. The simple, fishing-first deck includes a transom livewell, in-floor fish boxes, and dry storage, with an optional portable head in the console.


This boat is for anglers wanting a trailerable, fishable deep-V on a tighter budget, and it's easy to tow with a standard pickup. It trades away the 25 Bay's shallow draft and casting platforms, making it less suited for flats fishing. Compared to the 33 Tournament below it, the 24 Sport is far more affordable and manageable, but it lacks the range and tournament-grade bait systems, so it's best for nearshore days rather than serious offshore competition.

## 10. Contender 33 Tournament

![Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027 — figure 10](/assets/qa/bt0135-b10.jpg)




The Contender 33 Tournament ranks tenth because it is a purpose-built live-bait tournament machine with oversized pressurized livewells and a clean wraparound cockpit. Its 33-foot stepped hull carries 320 gallons of fuel and runs past 55 mph on triple 300-hp outboards, with a starting MSRP of $469,000. The layout emphasizes bait systems, in-deck fish boxes, and a hardtop with rocket launchers and dual MFDs, while the console houses an enclosed head.


This boat is for live-bait tournament anglers who prioritize competition layout over family versatility, and it trades away day-cruising comfort for single-purpose fishing. Compared to the 24 Sport above it, the 33 Tournament offers far more range and bait capacity, but it costs over $300,000 more and demands triple-engine maintenance. It's a dedicated tool for serious competitors, not a casual all-rounder.

## How we ranked these

We measured each Contender model against six weighted criteria: build quality and reliability (25%), on-water performance and seakeeping (20%), value and price (15%), comfort and layout (15%), fishing features and tech (15%), and resale value (10%). Data came from published reviews by Boating Magazine, BoatTEST, boats.com, Salt Water Sportsman, Discover Boating, and Contender's official build sheets.


Models that excelled in rough-water capability and fishability ranked highest, while those with weaknesses in these areas dropped despite other strengths.

We deliberately ignored marketing-driven metrics like top speed bragging rights and engine-count prestige. For most offshore anglers, a few extra miles per hour matter less than fuel range, livewell capacity, and a dry, soft ride in a head sea. We also excluded subjective lifestyle factors like watersports or cruising comfort, since this ranking targets serious bluewater fishermen and tournament crews. The focus remained on real-world offshore utility and long-term ownership value.

## What to look for

When choosing between these Contenders, prioritize hull design and seakeeping above all. The stepped-V hulls like the 32 ST and 35 ST run faster and drier offshore, while the bay hull of the 25 Bay trades that for shallow draft. Match engine rigging and fuel capacity to your typical runs—the 39 FA and 44 FA carry 535 and 620 gallons for canyon trips, but the 24 Sport's 130 gallons suits nearshore days.


Check livewell volume, pressurization, and fish-box insulation, especially for tournament work.

The biggest mistake buyers make is chasing headline top speed or maximum engine count. For most crews, fuel range, livewell capacity, and a comfortable ride in a head sea determine fishing success far more than a few extra mph. Another common error is ignoring resale value—Contender hulls hold value strongly, but options like quad engines or oversized fuel tanks can hurt resale if they limit the buyer pool. Buy on hull design, range, and fishing systems, not bragging rights.

## Related questions

### What is the best Contender boat for offshore fishing?

The Contender 39 FA is the best overall for offshore fishing in 2027, with a 39-foot hull, quad-engine power up to 1,800 hp, and 535 gallons of fuel. Its 360-degree Fish Around cockpit provides unmatched fighting room, and the deep stepped-V hull delivers proven rough-water seakeeping. It's built for long canyon runs and tournament miles.

### What is the most affordable Contender boat?

The Contender 24 Sport is the most affordable offshore-style Contender, starting at $139,900. It offers a 24-foot deep-V hull, 130 gallons of fuel, and speeds near 50 mph with a single or twin outboard setup. It's highly trailerable and fishable nearshore, making it an excellent entry point into the brand.

### Which Contender has the longest range?

The Contender 44 FA has the longest range in the lineup, carrying 620 gallons of fuel with quad 450-hp outboards. This allows for extreme offshore crossings and extended trips. The 39 FA follows with 535 gallons, and the 38 ST offers 475 gallons, all suitable for serious canyon fishing.

### Are Contender boats good in rough water?

Yes, Contender boats are widely respected for rough-water performance. Their deep and stepped-V hulls are designed to slice through head seas, with the 32 ST earning particular acclaim for its seakeeping. Models like the 35 ST and 39 FA also deliver dry, stable rides in challenging offshore conditions.

### What is the difference between Contender ST and FA models?

ST models feature a stepped hull design for speed and a drier ride, with a wide bow casting platform. FA (Fish Around) models have a wraparound bow that opens 360-degree fighting room, ideal for tournament fishing. ST models prioritize speed and casting, while FA models focus on fishability and cockpit space.

### Which Contender is best for bay and flats fishing?

The Contender 25 Bay is the best choice for bay and flats fishing, with a 25-foot hull, 1-foot-1-inch draft, and fore and aft casting platforms. It handles chop better than most flats boats and can do double duty—flats in the morning, nearshore reefs by afternoon. It's the best value at $159,900.

### How much does a Contender 39 FA cost?

The Contender 39 FA starts at approximately $1,095,000. This price includes the 39-foot hull, quad-engine capability up to 1,800 hp, 535 gallons of fuel, and a full fishing package with triple MFDs, hardtop, and transom livewells. It's a premium investment for serious offshore anglers.

### What is the top speed of a Contender 35 ST?

The Contender 35 ST can reach top speeds well past 60 mph when rigged with triple 300-hp outboards. Its stepped hull is designed for speed and efficiency, making it one of the fastest mid-large center consoles in Contender's lineup. It also carries 400 gallons of fuel for offshore range.

## FAQ

**Which Contender model is the best overall for 2027?**

The Contender 39 FA earns our top spot, balancing offshore range, quad-engine power up to 1,800 hp, a 535-gallon fuel capacity, and a 360-degree Fish Around cockpit with no real weakness on big water.

**What is the best value Contender?**

The Contender 25 Bay, starting near $159,900, brings Contender's offshore-grade hull quality to a shallow-draft bay boat for less than a fifth of the flagship's price.

**Which Contender is best for tournament fishing?**

The Contender 33 Tournament is purpose-built for live-bait competition with oversized pressurized livewells, while the 35 ST and 38 ST add speed and range for traveling tournament crews.

**Which Contender has the longest range?**

The Contender 44 FA carries 620 gallons of fuel with quad 450-hp outboards, giving it the longest offshore reach in the lineup, followed by the 39 FA at 535 gallons.

**Are Contender boats good in rough water?**

Yes. Contender's deep and stepped-V hulls are widely respected for slicing through a head sea, with the 32 ST in particular earning a reputation for sharp rough-water seakeeping.

**Which Contender is easiest to trailer?**

The Contender 24 Sport at 24 feet and the 25 Bay at 25 feet are the most trailerable, while the 28 Sport remains towable for buyers with the right rig.

**What is the starting price of the Contender 44 FA?**

The Contender 44 FA starts at $1,495,000, making it the most expensive model in the lineup. It offers the largest hull, 620 gallons of fuel, and quad 450-hp outboards for extreme range and size.

**How many people can the Contender 39 FA seat?**

The Contender 39 FA seats up to 12 people, making it suitable for day runs with a full crew. Its 11-foot-6-inch beam provides ample space, and the Fish Around bow design offers 360-degree fighting room.

**What engines are available on the Contender 32 ST?**

The Contender 32 ST can be rigged with twin or triple 300-hp outboards, pushing it past 55 mph. It carries 300 gallons of fuel and offers flexibility for buyers who want a balance of speed and efficiency.

**Does the Contender 25 Bay have a casting platform?**

Yes, the Contender 25 Bay features fore and aft casting platforms, making it ideal for sight fishing on shallow flats. It draws only 1 foot 1 inch, allowing access to skinny water, and seats up to 6 people.

## Sources

- https://www.boatingmag.com
- https://www.boattest.com
- https://www.boats.com
- https://www.saltwatersportsman.com
- https://www.discoverboating.com
- https://www.yachtingmagazine.com
- https://www.powerandmotoryacht.com
- https://www.sportfishingmag.com
- https://www.contenderboats.com

## Related on PULSE

- [More contender boat models 2027 rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
- [PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
- [Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

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Top 10 Contender Boat Models 2027

1. Contender 39 FA

2. Contender 35 ST

3. Contender 32 ST

4. Contender 30 ST

5. Contender 28 Sport

6. Contender 25 Bay

7. Contender 44 FA

8. Contender 38 ST

9. Contender 24 Sport

10. Contender 33 Tournament

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What to look for

Related questions

What is the best Contender boat for offshore fishing?

What is the most affordable Contender boat?

Which Contender has the longest range?

Are Contender boats good in rough water?

What is the difference between Contender ST and FA models?

Which Contender is best for bay and flats fishing?

How much does a Contender 39 FA cost?

What is the top speed of a Contender 35 ST?

FAQ

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