Comar Comet 333 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Comet 333 is characterized by its agility and responsiveness, particularly in light to moderate air. With a hull form that features relatively fine entries and a moderate beam carried well aft, the boat exhibits a high degree of stability when pressed. The rig is typically a fractional setup, which allows for precise mainsail trimming and makes the boat manageable for short-handed crews. Owners often note that the 333 "punches above its weight" in upwind performance, maintaining a tight tacking angle that rivals more modern designs.

Technical analysis of its displacement-to-length ratio suggests a vessel that sits comfortably in the performance-cruiser category; it is light enough to be rewarding for club racing but possesses enough momentum to handle a choppy Mediterranean sea state without excessive slamming. The steering is generally balanced, though, like many Lupoli designs of this vintage, it rewards active trimming to prevent excessive weather helm when the breeze exceeds 18 knots. While official manufacturer brochures from the era are now scarce, editorial retrospectives by Italian sailing publications often highlight the 333’s "lively" feel compared to the heavier cruisers of the same length produced by Northern European yards.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the Comet 333 showcases the traditional Italian flair for maximizing small spaces without sacrificing elegance. The layout typically follows a standard two-cabin configuration: a V-berth forward and a sizable double cabin tucked under the cockpit on the port side. The use of light-colored woods, often finished in a high-gloss or satin cherry, creates a sense of volume that belies the boat's 33-foot LOA. The salon features a central folding table flanked by two settees, which can serve as additional sea berths during passages.

A notable sibling in the Comar lineup is the Comet 303, which shares some design DNA but offers a more compact footprint. In contrast, the Comet 333 was often seen as the more "grown-up" version, providing a dedicated navigation station and a more functional L-shaped galley. There were few major layout variations, as Comar focused on a standardized, high-quality interior for this model, though later "Sport" versions might feature simplified cabinetry to save weight for racing. Headroom is generous for a boat of this era, comfortably accommodating sailors up to six feet tall in the main cabin.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Comar Comet 333 should prioritize a few specific technical areas during their survey. First, the hull-to-deck joint and the chainplate attachments deserve close scrutiny; like many performance boats of the late 80s, these areas are subject to significant loads, and any signs of crazing or water ingress can indicate structural fatigue.

Secondly, the rudder bearing assembly is a known wear point. Owners in various Mediterranean sailing circles have noted that the rudder can develop play over time, requiring the replacement of the bushings to restore the boat's signature "sharp" steering feel. Additionally, the original plumbing and electrical systems in Italian yachts of this vintage were sometimes less robust than their French or German counterparts; a buyer’s checklist should include a thorough test of the DC panel and a check for osmotic blistering, which, while not endemic to Comar, is a standard concern for GRP hulls of this age. Finally, inspect the mast step and the tension of the fractional rig to ensure the deck hasn't compressed under the load of the backstay.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for information regarding this model is the Comar Yachts community, which remains active primarily in Italy and Southern Europe. While a formal English-language owners' association is less prominent, the Comar Yachts official site occasionally provides historical context for their legacy models. Technical discussions and "refit diaries" for the Comet 333 can frequently be found on European sailing forums, where long-term owners trade advice on keel bolt maintenance and rig tuning.

The Verdict

The Comar Comet 333 is a "sailor’s sailboat" that manages to offer genuine cruising utility without the sluggishness found in many 33-footers. It is an ideal choice for those who value Mediterranean style and rewarding helm feedback over sheer interior volume.

Pros:

• Exceptional light-air performance and upwind pointing ability.
• Elegant Italian interior design with high-quality woodwork.
• Manageable size for solo or couple-handed sailing.
• Robust construction compared to modern entry-level production boats.

Cons:

• Limited availability outside of Europe (specifically Italy and Greece).
• Cockpit can feel cramped when sailing with more than four adults.
• The fractional rig requires more active tuning than a simple masthead rig.
• Original electrical systems may require updating for modern electronics.