Com-Pac 16 Information, Review, Specs

With its robust fiberglass construction and a design focused on ease of handling, the Com-Pac 16 appeals to both novice sailors looking for a forgiving introduction to the sport and experienced enthusiasts seeking a convenient pocket cruiser for coastal adventures and weekend escapes. Its enduring popularity stems from its practical design, solid build, and the ability to be easily launched and trailered, making diverse cruising grounds readily accessible.

History and Design

The story of the Com-Pac 16 begins in 1972 when it was first built, though the Com-Pac Yachts brand officially launched with this seminal model in 1974. Designed by Clark Mills, known for his work on the popular Optimist Pram and Windmill designs, the Com-Pac 16 was conceived as a small cruiser. Mills' design philosophy for this vessel focused on creating a robust and seaworthy yacht that delivered significant value to its owners, setting the precedent for Com-Pac's future line of compact, capable sailing craft.

During this era, Com-Pac Yachts, under The Hutchins Company, adhered to a manufacturing ethos centered on building high-quality, trailerable sailboats, thereby making sailing more accessible to a broader audience. The company's commitment to creating vessels that are "easy to sail, easy to launch, and easy to trailer" was evident from the Com-Pac 16's inception. Over its production run, later models of the Com-Pac 16 were also made available with a stainless steel centerboard, offering a variation from the standard fixed fin keel to potentially improve performance to weather, a point of criticism for the fixed shoal keel version. There were also some minor differences in sail area and the introduction of a foiled rudder in later models (Mk2) to enhance sailing characteristics.

Sailing Performance and Handling

While the Com-Pac 16, with its length overall of 16 feet and a waterline length of 14 feet, is not designed for breaking speed records, it offers a stable and predictable sailing experience. Owners frequently describe the Com-Pac 16 as "nice and steady," handling more like a larger boat despite its compact size. It is praised for being seaworthy and performing well on reaches and before the wind.

However, the fixed shoal keel version of the Com-Pac 16 has received some criticism regarding its performance to weather, meaning its ability to sail efficiently directly into the wind. This characteristic is common in many small, shoal-draft designs. To address this, some owners have reported noticeably improved performance with aftermarket foiled rudders. Despite this, the Com-Pac 16 is generally regarded as a well-behaved boat, capable of handling significant wind, with one owner noting sailing theirs in 26 knots of wind. Its transom-hung rudder provides direct steering control, contributing to its responsive handling.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Com-Pac 16, while compact, is designed to maximize usable space for its size, offering basic accommodations for overnighting. The headroom is not specified in the data, but as a small boat, it is typical for occupants to primarily sit rather than stand upright in the cabin. The layout typically features a V-berth forward, which serves as a sleeping area, and often includes some form of a head (toilet) beneath or nearby.

The main cabin area usually consists of two settees, often doubling as berths, on either side. Storage is typically found under the bunks and settees. Reviews suggest that while simple, the interior finish generally reflects the builder's commitment to durability, often featuring basic fiberglass surfaces. Ventilation is usually provided by a forward hatch and possibly a companionway. While cozy, the Com-Pac 16's interior provides sufficient shelter for weekend cruising and is often equipped with basic electrical systems for lighting and a bilge pump. Some owners have noted potential issues with the cabin interior, such as a "bubble feel to the fiberglass" between the bunks or concerns about rot in the bunk plywood, particularly in older models.

Owner's Perspectives

Com-Pac 16 owners consistently praise the boat for its solid construction, ease of handling, and suitability as a trailerable pocket cruiser. Many owners appreciate its stability and seaworthiness, often remarking that it feels like a larger boat on the water. The ability to easily launch and retrieve the boat, coupled with its manageable size for trailering, is a significant draw, allowing access to various sailing destinations. The Com-Pac 16 is often recommended for first-time boat owners due to its forgiving nature and straightforward systems.

However, like any boat of its age and type, the Com-Pac 16 does have some common points of discussion among owners. As mentioned, its upwind performance with the standard shoal keel can be a limitation for some sailors. Recurring maintenance issues sometimes noted include the hull-to-deck joint developing leaks due to flex, which may require re-bedding in older vessels. Some owners have also reported issues with water infiltration leading to foam saturation and potential rot in interior plywood components like bunks, particularly on boats over two decades old. Despite these potential issues, the Com-Pac 16 benefits from a strong and active owner community, such as the Com-Pac Yachts Owners Association (CPYOA), where owners share experiences, offer advice, and provide support. This robust community underscores the enduring appeal and satisfaction many derive from owning this classic little cruiser.