Sailing Performance & Handling
On the water, the Comet 38 is characterized by its agility and responsiveness, particularly in light to moderate Mediterranean breezes. With a sail area to displacement ratio that leans toward the performance side of the cruising spectrum, the boat accelerates quickly and maintains momentum through tacks. The hull design features a wide stern and a relatively flat bottom, which allows for impressive reaching speeds; however, this width requires the boat to be sailed relatively flat to prevent excessive weather helm.
The steering is typically communicative, utilizing a spade rudder that provides precise control, though owners often report that the boat requires active trimming as the wind increases. Because of its 2,300 kg ballast on a 6,500 kg total displacement, the Comet 38 offers a respectable ballast ratio of roughly 35%, providing a stiff and secure feeling when close-hauled. Historical sea trials from Italian publications like Vela e Motore noted that while it is a cruiser at heart, the boat’s pedigree allows it to perform admirably in club racing, particularly when equipped with the deeper 2.20-meter draft option rather than the standard 1.60-meter shallow keel.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the Comet 38 reflects Comar’s dedication to craftsmanship, utilizing high-quality mahogany veneers and solid wood trim that surpass many of its contemporary mass-production rivals. The layout is typically configured with three cabins: two symmetrical aft cabins and a forward V-berth, though a two-cabin "Owner’s version" was also produced, offering an expanded galley and a more spacious head compartment.
The main salon is notable for its ergonomics, featuring a U-shaped settee to port and a linear settee to starboard. Unlike many modern boats that prioritize "open-concept" minimalist designs, the Comet 38 retains a traditional nautical feel with deep fiddles and ample handholds, essential for moving about while underway. The galley is well-equipped for long-term cruising, and the navigation station is sufficiently sized to accommodate full-sized paper charts—a luxury often sacrificed in newer designs of this length. In the early 2000s, Comar introduced the Comet 38S (Sport), a Sergio Lupoli design that, while sharing the name, is a fundamentally different and more aggressive hull. Prospective buyers should differentiate between the classic Finot-designed 38 and the later Lupoli 38S.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
When inspecting a Comar Comet 38, several era-specific technical areas require attention.
- Keel-Hull Joint: Like many performance cruisers with high aspect-ratio keels, the internal "spider" or grid system should be inspected for signs of stress cracking or movement, particularly if the vessel has a history of hard groundings.
- Osmotic Blistering: While Comar hulls are generally well-built, vessels from the late 80s and early 90s are susceptible to osmosis. A moisture meter test of the hull below the waterline is essential during a pre-purchase survey.
- Deck Core Integrity: The deck is a sandwich construction. Areas around stanchion bases and the windlass should be checked for "soft spots" or delamination, which often indicates water ingress into the core material.
- Rigging and Chainplates: Given the age of these vessels, the standing rigging should be thoroughly inspected. Particular attention should be paid to the chainplate attachments, as leaks here can lead to bulkhead rot.
- Rudder Bearings: The spade rudder configuration is prone to wear in the bushings. Excessive play in the steering wheel or a "thumping" sensation while under power often points to the need for bearing replacement.
Community & Resources
The Comar Comet 38 benefits from a dedicated following, primarily centered in Italy and the wider Mediterranean. While there is no singular English-language "Comet 38 Association," the Italian owners' group, Comet Amici, serves as a hub for technical advice and social gatherings. Technical documentation and original drawings are often preserved and shared within these circles, providing a vital resource for restoration projects.
The Verdict
The Comar Comet 38 is a sophisticated cruiser that offers a superior build quality compared to many of its peers from the same era. It is an ideal choice for a sailor who values aesthetic beauty and sailing performance over the maximum interior volume found in modern "condo-marans."
Pros:
- Performance: Excellent light-air performance and reaching speeds.
- Build Quality: Superior joinery and interior materials compared to French mass-market competitors.
- Aesthetics: Classic Finot lines that have aged gracefully.
Cons:
- Draft Sensitivity: The deep keel is necessary for performance but can limit access to shallow anchorages.
- Regional Availability: Most well-maintained examples are located in Europe, specifically Italy.
- Age: Requires diligent maintenance of the hull grid and standing rigging.
