Comet 460 Information, Review, Specs

Rooted in the Comet 13 hull, the 460 combines Finot's performance-oriented philosophy with Comar's commitment to quality craftsmanship. This model represents a period of significant growth and innovation for Comar Yachts, solidifying its reputation in the international sailing community.

History and Design

The Comet 460 entered production in 1987, emerging from Comar Yachts during a period of considerable expansion for the Italian shipyard. The late 1980s saw Comar invest in a new 43,000 square meter facility, employing 160 workers and achieving an impressive production capacity of 145 boats per year. During this era, Comar was at the forefront of adopting advanced production techniques, including balsa and Termanto cored sandwich construction and vacuum lamination, all aimed at enhancing the strength and lightness of their vessels.

The design of the Comet 460 was entrusted to Jean Marie Finot of Groupe Finot, a partnership that proved to be both fruitful and enduring for Comar. Finot's design philosophy typically emphasized creating yachts that combined elegant aesthetics with high performance, ensuring they were both fast and comfortable. The Comet 460 reflects this ethos, designed as a large sailboat capable of spirited cruising.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Comet 460 is engineered for a balanced blend of performance and stability, making it well-suited as a fast cruiser. With a reported sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 22.56, she is indicative of a vessel capable of performing well in lighter air conditions, making the most of minimal breezes. This relatively high ratio suggests an eagerness to accelerate and maintain speed.

Her ballast to displacement ratio of around 34.7% indicates reasonable stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up to a good amount of wind without excessive heeling. The Comet 460's displacement to length ratio of approximately 202.1 places it firmly in the category of a moderately heavy performance cruiser. This combination points to a yacht that provides a comfortable motion in a seaway while still offering an engaging sailing experience. Anecdotal descriptions suggest the Comet 460 offers an average comfort value compared to similar sailboats of its class. The design incorporates a fractional sail plan and can feature hydraulic assistance for primary maneuvers, enhancing its usability and making it manageable even with a reduced crew. It is also noted for its excellent righting capability.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Comet 460 reflects a classic layout, designed to maximize comfort and utility for extended cruising. The typical arrangement includes three private cabins and two heads, providing ample space for owners and guests. A V-shaped owner's cabin with a dedicated bathroom is traditionally situated in the bow, offering privacy and comfort. Aft, there are usually two double cabins, each with access to a shared or dedicated bathroom.

The main salon is described as spacious, providing a comfortable area for dining and relaxation. While specific details on materials are limited in available data, Comar Yachts is known for its "distinctive Italian classical style" and for producing "high-quality sailing yachts," suggesting a well-finished interior with attention to detail in joinery and materials, aligning with the standards of performance cruisers of its era. The generous water capacity of 100 gallons further supports its suitability for comfortable long-distance cruising.