Com-Pac 23 Mk IV Information, Review, Specs

Throughout its production life, the Com-Pac 23 has evolved through several iterations. The Mk I introduced the world to the "Clark Mills" hull, while the Mk II and Mk III introduced refinements to the rig and interior appointments. The Mk IV is most notable for its standardized equipment levels and, frequently, the integration of a reliable inboard diesel engine—a rarity for a boat of this length—positioning it as a genuine coastal cruiser rather than a mere daysailer.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Com-Pac 23 Mk IV is designed for "stiffness" and stability rather than out-and-out racing speed. With a displacement of 3,000 pounds and nearly 45% of that weight dedicated to encapsulated lead ballast, the boat stands up to its canvas far longer than lighter, water-ballasted competitors. This high ballast-to-displacement ratio gives the 23 the "big boat feel" often cited by owners, allowing it to track straight and handle choppy coastal conditions with surprising composure.

The boat employs a shoal-draft keel drawing only 2' 3", which allows it to explore thin water and simplifies the launching process at most ramps. While the shallow draft limits its ability to point as high as a deep-keeled racer, its 219 square feet of sail area provides sufficient power to move the heavy hull in light to moderate air. Handling is generally described as "forgiving" and "deliberate." It is a boat that rewards steady sail trim and feels most at home in a steady 10-15 knot breeze. Because it lacks a centerboard, there are no clanking cables or pivot pins to maintain, resulting in a silent and secure ride.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 23-foot boat, the Mk IV offers a surprisingly sophisticated living space. The interior layout is centered around four full-sized berths: two in the V-berth and two long settee berths in the main salon. The use of warm teak trim and stainless steel hardware creates a traditional "yacht" aesthetic that distinguishes it from the more sterile fiberglass interiors of many modern mass-produced boats.

One of the most significant variations available for the 23 is the "Pop-Top" configuration. When at anchor, the cabin top can be raised to provide standing headroom and increased ventilation, a feature that significantly improves the quality of life during multi-day cruises. The Mk IV also features a dedicated area for a marine head with a privacy curtain and a compact galley area with a sink and storage. While sibling models like the Com-Pac 19 offer a "weekend cabin," the 23 is the first in the lineup to offer the volume necessary for true extended cruising for a couple or a small family.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Com-Pac 23 has earned a loyal following in the small-boat cruising community and is frequently featured as a benchmark vessel in Small Craft Advisor. Its reputation for seaworthiness was cemented by various long-distance coastal passages documented by owners, including successful voyages through the Florida Keys and across the Little Bahama Bank. The model’s enduring popularity has made it a staple of sailing literature focused on the "less is more" philosophy of cruising.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Com-Pac 23 is exceptionally overbuilt, there are specific areas potential buyers should investigate:

• Chainplate Sealing: Like many boats with deck-mounted chainplates, the seals can fail over time. Buyers should check the interior bulkheads for water staining, which indicates that the stainless steel plates need to be re-bedded to prevent core rot.
• Compression Post Support: Inspect the area beneath the mast step on the cabin top and the support post inside. While the 23 is sturdy, years of over-tensioned rigging can lead to slight deck depression if the internal support has moved or been compromised.
• Keel Stub Inspection: Although the ballast is encapsulated, the joint where the fiberglass hull meets the molded keel stub should be inspected for "the smile"—a hairline crack at the leading edge. In most Com-Pacs, this is cosmetic, but it requires proper fairing to prevent moisture ingress.
• Rudder Condition: Older rudders may be prone to moisture absorption or delamination. Check for "weeping" or swelling in the fiberglass foil.

Community & Resources

The Com-Pac Yachts Owners Association (CPYOA) is one of the most active owner groups in the sailing world. This community provides a massive technical wiki, modification guides, and a forum where owners discuss everything from diesel engine maintenance to trailer upgrades. The manufacturer, still operated by the Hutchins family in Clearwater, Florida, is also known for providing parts and technical advice for older models, a rare level of support in the marine industry.

The Verdict

The Com-Pac 23 Mk IV is a purpose-built vessel for the sailor who values traditional aesthetics, rugged construction, and the ability to cruise coastal waters without the expense of a deep-water slip.

Pros:

• Exceptional Stability: The high ballast ratio provides a secure, seaworthy feel.
• Shoal Draft: The 2' 3" draft is ideal for gunkholing and easy trailering.
• Quality Finishes: Generous use of teak and high-quality bronze/stainless hardware.
• Strong Resale: The model’s reputation ensures a steady market for well-maintained hulls.

Cons:

• Weight: At 3,000+ lbs plus a trailer, it requires a substantial tow vehicle (SUV or truck).
• Pointing Ability: The shoal keel cannot match the upwind performance of a deep-fin keel or a daggerboard.
• Price: Due to its high-quality construction, it is often more expensive on the used market than similar-sized production boats.