Comet 701 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Comet 701 commenced in 1979 and continued until 1985, with Comar Yachts building 257 units during this period. The design came from the renowned hand of Jean Marie Finot, whose work with Groupe Finot significantly influenced Comar's portfolio of successful models. This era saw Comar expanding its offerings, building on the success of earlier Finot collaborations, and embracing advanced fiberglass construction techniques. Notably, another boat of the identical design was produced in Germany by Wegu bootswerft, known as the WEGU 701. The Comet 701 was explicitly designed as a cabin cruiser, suitable for both extended day cruises and shorter voyages.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a compact masthead sloop with a length overall of 22.97 feet, the Comet 701 offers a lively sailing experience. Its fin keel and transom-hung rudder contribute to a responsive feel at the helm, allowing for nimble maneuvering. While performance ratios are typically applied to larger vessels, the Comet 701's design suggests a focus on balanced performance for its size. Jean Marie Finot is recognized for designing small sailboats, implying a design ethos that prioritizes efficiency and seaworthiness within a compact footprint. Its modest displacement of 3086 lbs and a maximum draft of 4.76 feet indicate a boat capable of reasonable speed and stability for its class, making it enjoyable in various wind conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact dimensions, the Comet 701 was designed to offer practical accommodations for cruising. The interior typically features a forward cabin and a saloon area, providing a versatile living space. The layout commonly includes a lockable two-person cabin, supplemented by additional berths in the saloon, often accommodating a total of two fixed berths and up to three additional berths. Basic amenities for a small cruiser are present, such as a two-burner gas stove in the galley area, allowing for simple meal preparation. While specific details on headroom and finish materials are not widely available, boats of this era from Comar Yachts generally featured functional and robust interiors, in line with their reputation for solid construction.