CM 60 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The CM 60 is a masterclass in balanced, high-alpha performance. Because it utilizes a powerful fractional rig and a high-aspect-ratio bulb keel, the boat exhibits the pointing ability of a pure racer with the stability of a much heavier cruiser. According to technical archives from Farr Yacht Design, the CM 60 was specifically optimized for a wide range of conditions, featuring a hull form with a clean exit and significant waterline length to minimize drag.

On the water, the CM 60 is known for its light, responsive helm, often described by helmsmen as feeling like a boat half its size. The steering system—typically twin carbon wheels in later hulls—provides exceptional feedback, allowing the driver to feel the "groove" even in light air. In heavy weather, the hull's generous beam is carried well aft, which provides significant form stability and prevents the "squirrelly" behavior often found in narrower vintage designs when sailing deep downwind. The sail-area-to-displacement ratio is aggressive, necessitating an experienced crew to manage the massive power of the main, yet the deck layout is thoughtfully arranged with powered winches to allow for shorthanded "couple-friendly" cruising when not on the racecourse.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Unlike the stripped-out interiors of Carroll Marine’s pure racing machines, the CM 60 features a richly appointed living space. The standard layout typically includes a sprawling owner’s stateroom forward with a private en-suite head, and two symmetrical guest cabins aft. The use of lightweight interior construction—often utilizing wood veneers over honeycomb or foam-core panels—allowed the builders to maintain a luxury aesthetic without the weight penalty of traditional solid timber.

The main salon is characterized by its open feel, facilitated by a nearly 17-foot beam, featuring a large U-shaped settee and a professional-grade galley capable of catering for long passages. Sibling variants of the CM 60 exist, most notably the transition from the Design 410 "Cruiser" to the more aggressively tuned Design 335 "IMS Racer" variants. While the hull shells share DNA, the interior of the racing-specific siblings often featured modular cabinetry and pipe berths to prioritize weight distribution over aesthetic luxury.

Popular Mentions & Media

The CM 60 gained significant notoriety in the international racing circuit through hulls like Carrera and Hooligan V. These boats became fixtures in high-profile events such as the Newport Bermuda Race and various Mediterranean regattas. The model was frequently highlighted in Sailing World and Yachting World during its production run, cited as a benchmark for the then-emerging "Performance Cruiser" category that sought to bridge the gap between the Swan-style luxury and the raw speed of Grand Prix racers.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective owners of a CM 60 must approach the purchase with the diligence required for a high-tech composite vessel. While the construction is robust, the complexity of the yacht's systems and its racing heritage necessitate specific inspections.

• Core Integrity: Because the hull and deck utilize a foam core, a professional moisture survey and "tap test" (or thermal imaging) are mandatory. Any history of aggressive racing can lead to localized delamination near high-load areas like the chainplates or the mast step.
• Keel Attachment: The CM 60 utilizes a high-draft bulb keel. The "keel sump" area should be inspected internally for any signs of stress cracking or movement, which could indicate a hard grounding.
• Rigging Fatigue: Most CM 60s were equipped with carbon fiber masts and rod rigging. Buyers should budget for a full NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) of the spar and a likely replacement of the standing rigging if it is more than 8–10 years old.
• System Complexity: As a semi-custom yacht, the CM 60 features complex hydraulic systems for backstay tension, vangs, and sometimes winches. These systems require specialized maintenance and should be checked for seal leaks and pressure consistency.

Community & Resources

Owners of Carroll Marine vessels often find technical support and community through the Farr Yacht Design archives, which maintain original sail plans and offsets for their designs. While no formal "CM 60 Owners Association" exists due to the limited production numbers, the broader community of Farr-designed yacht owners provides a wealth of shared knowledge regarding performance tuning and composite repair.

The Verdict

The CM 60 is a "gentleman’s racer" that has aged with remarkable grace. It offers a level of construction quality and design sophistication that is difficult to find in contemporary mass-production yachts.

Pros:

• Exceptional Speed: Genuinely fast in all wind angles; a consistent podium contender in offshore brackets.
• Build Quality: Epoxy/Kevlar construction offers superior strength-to-weight ratios compared to standard polyester boats.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The sleek, low-profile coachroof and Farr-designed lines remain timelessly elegant.

Cons:

• Operational Costs: Maintenance of 60-foot racing systems, carbon spars, and high-performance sails is significant.
• Draft Restrictions: The deep keel (often exceeding 10 feet) limits access to many popular cruising harbors and coastal marinas.
• Crew Requirements: While manageable by a couple in light air, the boat requires a skilled team to be handled safely at its performance limits.