Comanche 42 MH (Chris-Craft) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Chris-Craft, a name predominantly associated with iconic American powerboats, ventured into sailboat production from 1962 to 1976, marking a significant transition in its manufacturing history as the marine industry embraced new materials. All Chris-Craft sailboats, including the Comanche 42 MH, were constructed from fiberglass at their Algonac, Michigan facility, reflecting the company's shift from its traditional mahogany hulls. During this period, well-known yachtsman Cornelius Shields was a majority shareholder, influencing the company's direction in sailing. The builder article highlights Chris-Craft's commitment to quality and classic elegance, principles they aimed to carry into their sailboat line through their exclusive collaboration with Sparkman & Stephens.

The design of the Comanche 42 MH by Sparkman & Stephens was meticulous, featuring a fin keel and an integral skeg-rudder configuration. This design was developed through intensive tank testing, akin to the rigorous processes used for America's Cup champions like "Intrepid," another celebrated S&S design. The focus was on creating a light-displacement hull capable of impressive performance. While some Chris-Craft Comanche 42 models may have been offered with different rigging, the "MH" designation in this particular model signifies a masthead sloop rig, optimized for sail area and upwind performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Chris-Craft Comanche 42 MH is categorized as a moderate-weight sailboat, renowned for being a reasonably good performer with excellent stability and stiffness. With a total calculated sail area of approximately 739 square feet on a waterline length of just over 30 feet, the Comanche 42 MH boasts a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of around 17.5. This ratio suggests a boat with good power for its displacement, indicative of solid performance, particularly in lighter air conditions, without being overly sensitive in stronger winds.

Her ballast-to-displacement ratio, a significant 48.92%, underscores her inherent stability and stiffness. This high ratio means the boat is well-equipped to stand up to a breeze, offering a comfortable and secure motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 282 places her in the heavier cruising category, suggesting a solid, capable vessel designed for offshore passages rather than ultralight racing. The combination of these ratios contributes to the Comanche 42 MH's reputation for impressive performance on the water, capable of both racing and comfortable cruising. Her hull speed is calculated at 7.38 knots, a respectable pace for a vessel of her dimensions and design.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts can vary between individual vessels and refits over the years, the Chris-Craft Comanche 42 MH was designed to provide comfortable accommodations befitting a performance cruiser of its size and era. Given Chris-Craft's reputation for classic elegance and quality, the interior would have featured thoughtful design and robust materials.

Typical for a sailboat of this vintage and length, the interior likely includes a forward V-berth, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, and a dining area. A functional galley would have been standard, often equipped with a stove, oven, and refrigeration, with some examples featuring a propane three-burner stove and oven. A dedicated head compartment with a marine toilet and sink would also be present. Storage is generally ample, designed for extended cruising with lockers and shelving throughout the cabin. Water capacity typically stands at 70 gallons, supporting longer voyages. While specific headroom figures are not readily available, the overall design would have aimed for a comfortable living space for crew and guests, consistent with Chris-Craft's commitment to delivering a "first class" experience.