Com-Pac 23 Mk 3 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The lineage of the Com-Pac 23 begins with the original model, which was first built in 1978 and designed by the celebrated naval architect Clark Mills. The Com-Pac 23 Mk 3, which commenced production in 1991, maintains the same proven hull design while incorporating various enhancements. Com-Pac Yachts, rooted in the Hutchins Company's dedication to quality since 1957, has consistently focused on building high-quality, trailerable sailboats, a core philosophy that defines their manufacturing ethos.

Throughout its production, the Com-Pac 23 saw several refinements. The Mk 3, for instance, introduced tooling upgrades such as the conversion of round port lights to oval, contributing to a more modern aesthetic and improved functionality. Earlier versions, like the Mark I, featured aluminum hardware and mahogany plywood interiors, showcasing the builder's use of classic materials. Notably, the Mk 2 version introduced a hideaway galley, an innovation likely carried forward or improved upon in subsequent models. Around the time of the Mk 3's introduction, Com-Pac also began offering an optional 9 hp Yanmar inboard diesel engine, with approximately 35 units produced with this powerplant, providing an alternative to outboard propulsion.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Com-Pac 23 Mk 3 is characterized by a design that prioritizes stability and a responsive sailing experience. With a reported sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 19.14, she is well-suited for light-air performance, suggesting a lively feel under sail. Her substantial ballast-to-displacement ratio, calculated at around 0.446, indicates a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to significant wind without excessive heel. Despite her compact size, the Com-Pac 23 is considered a heavier displacement vessel for her length, with a displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 365.4, contributing to a comfortable motion in a seaway typical of a traditional cruiser.

Owners and reviewers often describe the Com-Pac 23 as a "fast boat when we have enough wind," praising its "exceptional sailing performance". She is noted for being "livelier under sail" compared to the smaller Com-Pac 16. The design features a masthead sloop rig, which simplifies sail handling and allows for sail area to be carried lower, potentially reducing heeling moment. While generally well-regarded for its handling, some owners have noted a tendency for a strong weather helm, which can often be mitigated by checking mast rake. The hull design is described as being slimmer than many comparable sailboats, hinting at a "slightly more speedy hull design". Overall, the Com-Pac 23 is often lauded for its robust build and reliable performance, with some asserting it as "simply strong".

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its trailerable nature, the Com-Pac 23 Mk 3 offers a surprisingly practical and comfortable interior for a boat of its size, designed to function effectively as a pocket cruiser. The cabin features a maximum headroom of 52 inches (130 cm), providing reasonable space for movement below deck. While specific layouts can vary, the interior typically includes a V-berth forward, a compact galley area, and a main salon that often converts into additional berths. Earlier models, like the Mark I, used mahogany plywood for interior finishes. The Mk 2 variant famously included a hideaway galley, a feature that likely evolved in the Mk 3 to offer efficient use of space. The design of the Mk 3 also incorporated "interior modifications that allow for easier installation" of various components, suggesting a continuous effort to enhance the functionality and flexibility of the cabin. For extended cruising, the Com-Pac 23 Mk 3 typically includes a fresh water tank with a capacity of 14 U.S. gallons (53 L; 12 imp gal).

Owner's Perspectives

Com-Pac 23 Mk 3 owners frequently commend the boat for its robust construction and overall durability, a hallmark of the Com-Pac brand. Many consider it to be "perhaps the most seaworthy 23-foot sailboat on Earth". Owners appreciate the brand's commitment to value, which translates into a vessel that is not only "easy to sail" but also "easy to launch and easy to trailer," aligning perfectly with Com-Pac's overarching design philosophy. This ease of use fosters a strong sense of community among Com-Pac owners, often evidenced by active online forums and owner associations.

However, like any sailboat of its vintage, the Com-Pac 23 Mk 3 can have its specific considerations. Some owners have reported issues with rot in the interior plywood used by Com-Pac, suggesting potential areas for inspection during pre-purchase surveys. Furthermore, as with many boats, the condition of sails is crucial for optimal performance, and older, "blown out" sails are a common point of attention for new owners. The tendency for a strong weather helm, while often manageable, is another characteristic frequently noted by owners.