Comar Comet 12 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Comet 12 are defined by Jean-Marie Finot’s signature approach to hull dynamics: a relatively wide beam carried well aft and a low-profile cabin trunk to reduce windage. This design choice provides a significant amount of initial stability and a generous cockpit for the crew. Technical documentation from the Finot archive indicates a focus on reducing the wetted surface area, which allows the Comet 12 to remain agile in light Mediterranean airs where heavier cruisers might stall.

Under sail, the boat is known for being responsive and "communicative" through the helm. The fin keel and deep spade rudder provide excellent lift when sailing upwind, allowing the Comet 12 to point higher than many of its contemporaries. However, the performance-oriented rudder requires an attentive hand in heavy following seas to avoid wandering. Owners often report that the boat finds its "groove" in 12 to 18 knots of breeze, where it exhibits a balanced helm and an easy motion. The sail-area-to-displacement ratio is high enough to satisfy racing enthusiasts, yet the hull's volume ensures that the boat remains predictable when shortened down for heavy weather cruising.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the Comet 12 showcases the Italian flair for interior architecture, blending functional nautical layouts with high-quality woodwork. The standard configuration typically features a three-cabin, two-head layout. The forward master cabin is notably spacious for a 40-foot boat of this vintage, often featuring a private head and ample hanging locker space. The salon is centered around a large U-shaped settee to port with a linear galley or a smaller settee to starboard, depending on the specific year of production.

The use of rich mahogany or teak joinery was standard, providing a warm and traditional atmosphere that contrasts with the boat's modern exterior lines. Ventilation is managed through a series of deck hatches, though some earlier hulls have been noted for having limited opening ports in the aft cabins.

Several variations of the Comet 12 exist. The most notable sibling is the Comet 121, which was a refined version of the same hull released in the early 1990s. The 121 featured a updated deck mold with a more integrated "sugar scoop" transom and subtle changes to the interior cabinetry to modernize the aesthetic. Additionally, some versions were produced with a shallower draft keel for coastal cruising, though the deep-draft performance version remains the most sought-after by sailors prioritizing speed.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Comar Comet 12 should approach the survey with a focus on the structural and age-related maintenance typical of GRP yachts from the 1980s.

• Osmosis and Hull Integrity: Like many Mediterranean boats of this era, the Comet 12 hull should be inspected for signs of osmotic blistering. While Comar’s layups were generally robust, older hulls that have spent their lives in warm waters are more susceptible.
• Deck Core Moisture: The decks are balsa-cored, which provides excellent stiffness and weight savings. However, moisture ingress around the stanchion bases, chainplates, and the large Lewmar deck hatches is a common "gotcha" that can lead to delamination if not addressed.
• Rudder Bearing Wear: The spade rudder is a high-load component. Surveyors should check for excessive play in the rudder bearings and inspect the rudder stock for any signs of electrolytic corrosion or stress fracturing.
• Rigging and Mast Step: The Comet 12 features a powerful masthead rig. The mast step area should be scrutinized for any signs of compression or cracking in the fiberglass grid system, especially on boats that have been campaigned heavily in club races.
• Engine Maintenance: Most Comet 12s were originally fitted with Volvo Penta or Perkins diesel engines. Buyers should check the heat exchangers for scale buildup and inspect the saildrive diaphragm (if equipped) for its replacement date.

Community & Resources

The primary resource for technical data and historical drawings remains the Groupe Finot official website, which maintains an archive of the Comet 12's design phases. While there is no centralized international English-language owners' association, there is a very active Italian community centered around the "Comet Owners" groups on various Mediterranean sailing portals. These groups are excellent for sourcing specific replacement parts, such as original Italian hardware or custom joinery templates.

The Verdict

The Comar Comet 12 remains a compelling choice for the sailor who wants a "proper" sailing yacht that doesn't sacrifice performance for interior volume. It is an elegant, fast, and well-constructed vessel that holds its own against much newer designs.

Pros:

• Excellent light-air performance and upwind pointing ability.
• High-quality Italian interior joinery and aesthetic appeal.
• Spacious three-cabin layout suitable for family cruising.
• Strong design pedigree from Jean-Marie Finot.

Cons:

• Aging GRP requires careful inspection for osmosis and deck moisture.
• The large spade rudder can be sensitive in heavy-air downwind conditions.
• Cockpit ergonomics are more suited for an active crew than casual lounging.
• Limited availability of English-language technical manuals.