Comar Comet 65 S Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The performance profile of the Comet 65 S is defined by a high sail-area-to-displacement ratio, a hallmark of Vallicelli’s racing pedigree. The hull is typically constructed using vacuum-infused sandwich techniques with E-glass and epoxy-vinylester resins, often incorporating carbon fiber reinforcements in high-load areas like the chainplates and the keel structure. This construction method ensures a rigid, lightweight platform that responds quickly to gusts.

On the water, the 65 S is noted for its exceptional light-air performance, a necessity for Mediterranean summer cruising. However, its stability remains high due to a deep-draft T-bulb keel that provides a low center of gravity. Handling is refined through a large-diameter carbon wheel (or twin wheels in later iterations) connected to a high-aspect-ratio spade rudder. Technical reviews from the period of its launch highlight the yacht's ability to track exceptionally well upwind, maintaining narrow tacking angles that challenge pure racing designs. The deck layout is optimized for shorthanded sailing, with primary winches situated within reach of the helm, often powered by sophisticated hydraulic or electric systems to manage the substantial loads of the 230+ square meter upwind sail area.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Comet 65 S is a showcase of Italian minimalist luxury, originally designed to be highly customizable. The standard "Sport" configuration features a low-profile deckhouse that allows for a flush-deck aesthetic while maintaining surprisingly generous headroom below. Materials typically include light oaks or teak paired with white lacquered surfaces and stainless steel accents, creating an airy, modern atmosphere.

The most common layout includes an expansive owner’s suite forward of the mast, featuring a centerline queen berth, a private vanity, and a large en-suite head with a separate shower stall. Aft of the main salon, which serves as the social hub with a large U-shaped settee and a professional-grade galley, are two identical guest cabins with en-suite facilities. A significant variation exists in the form of the Comet 65 DH (Deck House). While built on the same Vallicelli hull, the DH version features a raised coachroof and an elevated saloon floor, providing 360-degree visibility from the seating area—a feature preferred by long-distance cruisers. Some 65 S models were also configured with a fourth "crew cabin" in the forepeak, accessible via a deck hatch, to accommodate professional staff during charters or deliveries.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Comar Comet 65 S gained international attention during its debut years, frequently appearing as a featured "Maxi" in European yachting journals. It was a centerpiece for Comar Yachts during the Genoa Boat Show and the Festival de la Plaisance de Cannes throughout the mid-2000s. The model's reputation was further bolstered by its performance in the Mediterranean racing circuit, specifically in the Giraglia Rolex Cup and the Middle Sea Race, where various hulls competed in the IRC and ORC divisions. Its sleek profile has made it a favorite for high-end nautical photography and a benchmark for the "Italian Style" that dominated yacht design in the first decade of the 21st century.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a pre-owned Comet 65 S should focus their due diligence on the following high-signal areas:

• Hydraulic Systems: Given the size of the yacht, most units are equipped with complex hydraulic systems for the backstay, vang, and often the winches or swim platform. These systems require meticulous maintenance; check for "milky" hydraulic fluid (indicating water contamination) or leaks at the ram seals.
• Keel Attachment: The high-leverage T-bulb keel puts significant stress on the floor grid. A thorough survey should include an inspection of the epoxy floors and the stainless steel keel bolts for any signs of movement or hairline cracking in the surrounding laminate.
• Teak Deck Wear: Many Comet 65 S yachts were delivered with vacuum-bonded teak decks. While aesthetically pleasing, these decks are nearing the end of their service life on older hulls. Check for thinning wood and failing caulking, which can lead to localized delamination if moisture penetrates the sandwich core.
• Electronics Integration: As a yacht designed for performance, many were fitted with complex B&G or Raymarine instrument clusters integrated with early-generation autopilots. Upgrading these systems to modern NMEA 2000 standards can be a significant capital expense due to the sheer length of cable runs and the need for new sensor calibration.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Comet 65 S typically find support through the Comar Yachts corporate archives for technical drawings and original build specifications. While there is no dedicated English-language owner’s association, the "Comet Owners" community is highly active in Italy, often organizing "Comet Cup" regattas where technical knowledge regarding the 65 S and its siblings is shared among the fleet.

The Verdict

The Comar Comet 65 S is a "gentleman’s racer" that prioritizes aesthetic elegance and raw speed. It is best suited for an owner who appreciates Italian design and intends to spend as much time trimming sails as they do entertaining at anchor.

Pros:

• Exceptional speed and agility for a 65-foot yacht.
• Timeless, minimalist Italian interior design.
• High-quality composite construction using epoxy resins.
• Versatile enough for both Mediterranean regattas and luxury cruising.

Cons:

• Systems complexity requires higher-than-average maintenance budgets.
• The low-profile "S" version offers less natural light below deck than the "DH" variant.
• Deep draft can limit access to some shallower cruising grounds and marinas.