Meteor Class Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Meteor Class begins with Sipla, the precursor to Comar Yachts, which was founded in 1961 in Forlì, Italy. Sipla initially focused on wooden dinghies before transitioning to fiberglass production, laying the groundwork for popular boating in Italy with models like the Meteor. Production of the Meteor Class commenced in 1968, with a significant 1,000 units eventually built, solidifying its status as an active and successful one-design class for many years.

E. G. Van de Stadt, the esteemed designer behind the Meteor Class, adhered to a core design philosophy emphasizing speed, comfort, safety, and quality. For a one-design class like the Meteor, this translated into a design focused on spirited performance within the strictures of class rules, ensuring competitive and equitable racing. Comar Yachts, known for combining elegant design with robust performance, applied its early fiberglass construction expertise to the Meteor, contributing to its durability and widespread appeal. While no significant design variations like MkI or MkII models are widely documented, its consistent design was crucial to maintaining its one-design integrity.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Designed as a racing boat, the Meteor Class is best suited for competitive sailing and offers an engaging experience on the water. Its masthead sloop rig and a length overall of just under 20 feet (19.68 ft) are configured for agile and responsive handling. With a modest beam of 7 feet and a fixed bulb keel drawing 3.22 feet, the Meteor Class provides stability while remaining nimble [3,. While detailed anecdotal accounts of its handling are not extensively documented in public reviews, its longevity as an active one-design class strongly suggests that it is well-balanced and predictable, making it enjoyable for both seasoned racers and those developing their sailing skills. The "fun" and "inexpensive" nature often associated with the Meteor points to a boat that is relatively easy to sail and maintain, contributing to its lasting popularity.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size, the Comar Meteor Class offers a basic interior primarily focused on providing shelter rather than extensive accommodations. With a length overall of under 20 feet, stand-up headroom is not a feature, and the interior layout is minimal, typical for a day sailor or small weekender of its era. Owners can expect a simple cuddy cabin arrangement, likely featuring V-berth style bunks in the bow area, offering a space for storage or a rudimentary overnight stay. Details on specific interior finishes or amenities are scarce, suggesting a utilitarian approach with functionality prioritized over creature comforts, consistent with its role as a competitive one-design and accessible entry-level sailboat.