Com-Pac 19 Information, Review, Specs

Over its multi-decade production run, the model transitioned through three primary iterations: the Mk 1, the Mk 2, and the Mk 3. While the hull remained consistent, the Com-Pac Yachts shipyard introduced significant deck and rig refinements with each version. The Mk 2 version introduced a more modern deck mold and improved rigging, while the Mk 3, launched in the early 1990s, featured an enlarged companionway, a redesigned cabin trunk for better airflow, and a more user-friendly cockpit layout.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Com-Pac 19 is characterized by a "stiff" and predictable motion that is uncommon for a vessel under 20 feet. With a displacement-to-length (D/L) ratio typically in the mid-200s, it does not plane, but rather punches through a chop with the momentum of a much larger boat. This "sea-kindliness" is a direct result of Bingham’s design, which emphasizes stability over raw speed. According to archival editorial reviews from Practical Sailor, the boat tracks exceptionally well thanks to its long shoal keel, which minimizes the "skittish" behavior often found in centerboard boats.

Under sail, the boat is most comfortable in 10 to 15 knots of breeze. Because it carries a relatively modest sail area, it can feel sluggish in light air, though the addition of a 150% genoa can significantly improve performance in these conditions. The boat’s 2-foot draft allows it to access extremely shallow anchorages and makes it exceptionally easy to launch from a trailer at most ramps. While it is a sloop rig, many owners opt for a bowsprit (standard on some later versions) which allows for a larger headsail and improves the boat’s overall balance, reducing the weather helm that can develop when the boat is pressed hard.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 19-foot boat, the interior of the Com-Pac 19 is surprisingly functional, though it is limited by its "sitting headroom" of approximately 3 feet 8 inches. The layout is a classic four-berth configuration: a V-berth forward and two long quarter-berths that extend aft under the cockpit seats. In the Mk 1 and Mk 2 models, the interior was somewhat Spartan, emphasizing teak trim and simple fiberglass surfaces. The Mk 3 variant significantly improved the living experience by enlarging the companionway hatch, which reduces the "cave-like" feeling of the cabin and allows for better ventilation during overnight trips.

Storage is primarily located beneath the berths. While there is no dedicated galley, many owners utilize a portable stove on a custom-made board or the small bridge deck. The boat was designed for weekend "gunkholing," and the interior reflects this, prioritizing sleeping space over elaborate amenities. The sibling model, the Com-Pac 19/3, is often the most sought-after on the used market due to these ergonomic improvements to the cabin entrance and interior liner.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

The Com-Pac 19 is known for its bulletproof construction, featuring a solid fiberglass hull and a deck cored with plywood or balsa. However, buyers should focus on several specific areas during inspection:

• Deck Core Saturation: Like many boats of this era, the hardware (cleats, chainplates, and stanchions) was bedded at the factory. If the sealant has failed over decades, water can ingress into the core. Special attention should be paid to the area around the mast step and the chainplates.
• Rudder Delamination: Early models featured wooden rudders or fiberglass-encapsulated wood. These are prone to swelling or splitting if water reaches the internal core. Many owners eventually upgrade to a modern high-density foam or composite rudder.
• The "Com-Pac Smile": While the keel is encapsulated (meaning there are no keel bolts to fail), a hairline crack can sometimes develop at the joint where the keel meets the hull. This is usually aesthetic rather than structural, but it should be ground out and filled with epoxy to prevent water from wicking into the fiberglass laminate.
• Trailer Condition: Because the 19 is a heavy boat for its size, the trailers are often under significant stress. Check for rust on the axle and the integrity of the bunk supports, as a failed trailer can be a significant secondary expense.

Community & Resources

The Com-Pac 19 enjoys one of the most dedicated owner bases in the small-boat world. The primary hub for technical information and community interaction is the Com-Pac Yachts Owners Association (CPYOA). This group maintains extensive technical wikis and forums where owners share modifications, ranging from adding solar power to installing custom gaff rigs. Because the manufacturer, The Hutchins Company, is still in operation in Clearwater, Florida, owners can often source OEM parts and advice directly from the factory, a rarity for boats of this vintage.

The Verdict

The Com-Pac 19 is an ideal choice for the sailor who prioritizes stability, ease of trailering, and traditional aesthetics over modern racing performance. It is a forgiving vessel that rewards the cruiser with a sense of security usually reserved for much larger yachts.

Pros:

• High stability and seaworthiness for a 19-foot boat.
• Easy to trailer and launch due to the 2-foot shoal draft.
• Strong manufacturer support and an active, helpful owner community.
• Solid, heavy-duty construction that holds its value well.

Cons:

• Limited headroom and cramped interior for extended cruising.
• Heavier than many competitors, requiring a capable tow vehicle.
• Lacks agility in light winds compared to lighter, swing-keel designs.