Com-Pac 19 Information, Review, Specs

The Com-Pac 19 first entered production in 1979. Designed by Robert K. Johnson, the boat emerged from Com-Pac Yachts' commitment to crafting seaworthy, user-friendly, and value-driven sailboats. The Hutchins Company, which began its foray into sailboat manufacturing around 1970, established the Com-Pac Yachts brand officially in 1974, with a strong focus on high-quality, trailerable boats. The Com-Pac 19 fits perfectly within this ethos, conceived as a compact yet capable cruising vessel that emphasizes convenience and accessibility. While the original design by Bob Johnson laid the foundation, later iterations, such as the Com-Pac 19 Mk 2, have seen design input from figures like W.L. Hutchins Jr., showcasing an ongoing evolution within the model line.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a small sailboat, the Com-Pac 19 is lauded for its straightforward and forgiving sailing characteristics. With its fin keel and transom-hung rudder, she is described by owners as tough, stable, and very seaworthy for her size. The masthead sloop rig provides a balanced sail plan, contributing to her ease of handling. Sailors report that the Com-Pac 19 can offer a "wild ride" in stronger winds, such as 20-knot gusts, indicating her capability to perform capably in varying conditions 7 - from previous search. True to the Com-Pac brand's philosophy, the 19 is designed to be "easy to sail," making it an appealing choice for both novice and experienced sailors seeking a practical vessel for coastal cruising and day sailing.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Com-Pac 19, while compact, is designed to facilitate short trips and overnight stays. The cabin offers a maximum headroom of 46 inches (120 cm), which is respectable for a boat of its length. While specific details on the exact layout can vary or be customized by owners, the design typically features a V-berth forward, providing basic sleeping accommodations for two. Given its purpose as a pocket cruiser capable of "1 or 2 overnighters", the cabin generally includes space for a portable head, and simple amenities such as a small countertop or cooler for provisions, though a dedicated galley is usually minimal or absent. The focus is on maximizing usable space within its nineteen-foot length, offering a dry and sheltered retreat.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Com-Pac 19 frequently praise its exceptional trailerability and ease of launching, which aligns directly with the builder's design philosophy, 4 - from previous search]. This characteristic is a significant draw, allowing owners to easily transport the boat to diverse sailing grounds and store it without needing permanent dockage. The vessel is consistently described as a "terrific trailerable," known for its robust construction, stability, and remarkable seaworthiness for a boat of its size. While overall owner satisfaction appears high, a recurring point of discussion among some owners has been isolated reports of rot issues with interior plywood in older models 5 - from previous search. However, the active Com-Pac Yachts Owners Association (CPYOA) fosters a strong community, providing a platform for owners to share experiences and support each other, further underscoring the enduring appeal and satisfaction derived from owning a Com-Pac 19.