Cobra 850 Information, Review, Specs

The Cobra 850 emerged from the stable of Cobra Yachts (UK), a shipyard founded by John Rockwood in 1975, whose operations spanned a concentrated period of fiberglass boat building until 1982. Introduced in 1976, the Cobra 850 quickly gained traction in the market. Its design, by David Feltham, aimed to produce a practical and forgiving boat suitable for coastal sailing and leisure. Feltham was particularly adept at designing twin-keel vessels, a popular configuration in the UK for its ability to access shallow waters and dry out on tides. While primarily known for its twin keel version, a single fin keel option was also made available, offering variations in draft and potentially different handling characteristics. The enduring popularity of the Cobra 850, with hundreds still sailing today, is a testament to the solid, heavy-duty construction techniques employed by Cobra Yachts during this era, 16].

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cobra 850's design priorities favored stability and comfort over outright speed. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.6, it indicates moderate performance, suggesting it is not a light-air flyer but performs adequately across a range of conditions. Its high Ballast to Displacement ratio of 0.45 signifies excellent initial stiffness and stability, enabling it to stand up well to a breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 325 places the Cobra 850 firmly in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, contributing to its solid feel on the water.

Anecdotal reports from owners generally describe the Cobra 850 as a "steady, sedate and spacious, but slightly sporty" performer. While the twin keel version, which many units feature, sails well, it is noted that it points effectively but may exhibit some leeway when racing. Overall, owners praise its seaworthy nature and reasonable sailing performance for a boat designed primarily for comfortable cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of 28.5 feet, the Cobra 850 is praised for its surprisingly spacious and voluminous interior. The internal layout is designed to maximize usable space, making it a comfortable family cruiser. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design generally offers ample space below decks for a vessel of its size, creating a practical and comfortable environment for extended periods on board.

Typical interior arrangements often include a forward V-berth, a main saloon with opposing settees that can convert into berths, a galley area, and a dedicated head compartment. Owners frequently commend the comfortable accommodation and good storage options found throughout the boat. The finish quality, consistent with the era, often features a blend of fiberglass surfaces with warm wood trim, creating a durable and inviting interior. Reviews and photographic evidence suggest a well-appointed living space, emphasizing functionality and comfort for cruising families.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cobra 850 consistently express strong satisfaction with their vessels, often highlighting their robust construction and overall reliability. The solid build is a frequently praised attribute, contributing to a sense of security and a comfortable motion even in choppy conditions. Many consider it a "good reliable all rounder with no really bad points," appreciating its enduring design and performance as a family cruiser. The spacious interiors and dependable performance are core reasons for its continued popularity on the used boat market.

However, like many older yachts, certain common maintenance points have been noted by the owner community. A recurring issue identified in discussions among owners is the potential for rudder cracks or "bad rudder" problems, which may require attention. While not universally reported, some owners of similar vintage boats have also mentioned sagging headlinings as a potential area for refurbishment. Despite these minor age-related concerns, the active community of owners, exemplified by groups like the Cobra and Seawolf Owners Association, underscores the enduring appeal and support for these classic British yachts.