Comet 28 Race Information, Review, Specs

The Comet 28 Race emerged in 1984, a product of Comar Yachts' successful collaboration with Groupe Finot. During this era, Comar, having cemented its reputation with iconic models like the Comet 910, was expanding its design repertoire and pioneering advanced production techniques. The shipyard utilized balsa and Termanto cored sandwich construction and vacuum lamination to enhance the strength and lightness of its vessels, a manufacturing ethos that would have influenced the build of the Comet 28 Race. Comar's aim during this period was to diversify its offerings with comfortable and fast boats.

Designed by Jean Marie Finot, known for his prolific and successful partnership with Comar, the Comet 28 Race was conceived with a clear focus on performance. Finot's philosophy typically involved creating efficient hulls with good sailing characteristics, and the 28 Race, with its fin keel and spade rudder, reflects this commitment to speed and agility. Production of the model continued for nearly a decade, concluding in 1993.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Comet 28 Race is characterized by its sportive nature and design geared towards racing, while also being suitable for cruising. With a length overall of just over 28 feet and a waterline length of 24.11 feet, it is a light displacement monohull featuring a fin keel and a spade rudder, a configuration indicative of a design focused on maneuverability and responsiveness. The masthead sloop rig, as specified by its I (forestay height) of 29.72 ft and J (foretriangle base) of 10.24 ft, combined with a P (mainsail luff) of 27.56 ft and E (mainsail foot) of 10.66 ft, provides ample sail area to propel its 3770-pound displacement.

Descriptions of the Comet 28 Race consistently highlight its sporty handling. It is often regarded as a boat well-suited for competitive sailing, indicating good performance in various conditions. Its design, featuring a single rudder and a fin keel, suggests quick response to the helm and good upwind ability. While specific ballast weight information is not widely reported, the overall design points to a lively and engaging sailing experience for those seeking a performance-oriented small cruiser-racer.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its racing inclinations, the Comet 28 Race offers a functional and compact interior layout, reflecting its dual-purpose design for both competitive sailing and medium-range cruising. The interior volumes are described as contained, optimizing space within its 8.17-foot beam. Typical configurations include the provision for sleeping up to five people, and a head (bathroom) is incorporated, making it viable for weekend trips and short cruises.

Reports suggest a layout featuring twin settees in the main salon, a practical arrangement for a boat of this size, providing seating and additional berths. While specific details on the finish quality and materials are scarce in general reviews, Comar Yachts during this period was known for its distinctive Italian classical style and high-quality construction. The boat is equipped with an 11-gallon fresh water capacity and a modest 1-gallon fuel tank for its Nanni diesel engine, emphasizing its sailing capabilities.

Owner's Perspectives

Owner discussions regarding the Comet 28 Race are not extensively documented in public forums. However, the general sentiment for Comar yachts from this era often praises their solid construction and robust performance, suggesting a durable build quality. While specific issues for the 28 Race are not commonly highlighted, some owners of similar boats from the period value their Comar yachts for cruising, even if previous owners used them for racing. The Comet 28 Race appears to foster a degree of loyalty, with some owners appreciating its layout for its size.