Comet 11 Plus Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Comet 11 Plus is characterized by a hull form that was remarkably ahead of its time, featuring a significant beam carried well aft and a relatively flat bottom. This design philosophy, a hallmark of Jean-Marie Finot’s naval architecture, provides the boat with high initial stability and a spacious cockpit. On the water, the 11 Plus is known for being a "stiff" boat that can carry its sail area well into freshening breezes without rounding up.

Despite its high freeboard and voluminous hull, the boat maintains a respectable performance profile in light to moderate air, thanks to a generous sail plan. However, the wide beam and flat sections can lead to "slamming" when driving hard into a short, steep chop—a common trait of early performance-oriented cruisers from this era. Tracking is generally reliable due to a deep fin keel and a well-proportioned spade rudder, though the steering can feel heavy if the boat is over-canvassed. Many owners noted that the Plus version benefited from improved weight distribution compared to the earliest Comet 11 hulls, which slightly enhanced its motion in a seaway.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Comet 11 Plus is its most distinguishing feature, departing radically from the "linear" cabin arrangements of its 1970s contemporaries. The design utilizes a split-level layout that places the saloon in a central, elevated position under the large coachroof windows. This provides a sense of volume and visibility rarely found in 35-foot monohulls of the period. The "Plus" designation often referred to an updated aft section; while the standard Comet 11 featured a somewhat cramped aft area, the Plus frequently incorporated a more refined aft cabin or an improved galley arrangement.

Materials typically included high-quality teak veneers and molded fiberglass liners, which reflected Comar Yachts’ transition toward industrialized yet elegant production methods. The engine is often situated centrally under the saloon floor, which aids in weight centralization but requires meticulous soundproofing to keep decibel levels manageable under power. Two primary configurations were common: a two-cabin version focused on owner comfort and a three-cabin variant designed to maximize berths for Mediterranean chartering or larger families.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

• Osmotic Blistering: Like many Mediterranean hulls produced during the late 70s and early 80s, the Comet 11 Plus is susceptible to osmosis. Prospective buyers should prioritize a moisture meter test of the hull, particularly around the turn of the bilge.
• Deck Core Integrity: Comar utilized a sandwich construction for the decks to save weight. Over decades, hardware bedding can fail, leading to water ingress and delamination. Soft spots around the mast step and the large coachroof windows are high-priority inspection areas.
• Window Seals: The expansive coachroof windows that define the model are also its primary leak points. Replacing the specialized gaskets or re-bedding the acrylic panels can be a labor-intensive project.
• Engine Access and Seals: Because the engine is mounted centrally, the long drive shaft requires a well-maintained stuffing box or seal. Buyers should check for signs of chronic salt-water spray in the central bilge area, which can damage the engine mounts and electrical systems.
• Rudder Bearing Wear: The spade rudder is subject to significant loads due to the boat’s beam. Check for excessive play in the rudder stock, which often indicates the need for bushing replacement.

Community & Resources

The Comet 11 Plus benefits from a dedicated following in Europe, particularly within the Italian sailing community. While there is no longer a dedicated global "11 Plus" factory association, the broader Comar community remains active. Owners often share technical diagrams and restoration projects through specialized groups such as the Comet Owner's Association (Associazione Armatori Comet), which serves as a vital repository for original Finot blueprints and Comar factory specifications.

The Verdict

The Comet 11 Plus remains a standout choice for sailors who value interior volume and natural light without sacrificing the pedigree of a respected naval architect. It is a "big" 35-footer that punches above its weight class in terms of livability.

Pros:

• Exceptional Interior Volume: Feels significantly larger than its 11-meter length suggests.
• Natural Light: The raised coachroof provides a bright, airy saloon that avoids the "cave" feeling of traditional designs.
• Sturdy Construction: Built during an era where Comar was establishing its reputation for robust, offshore-capable hulls.

Cons:

• Aesthetic Polarity: The high-profile coachroof and "boxy" look are not to everyone's taste.
• Maintenance of Large Windows: Ensuring the large panoramic ports remain watertight is a recurring task.
• Upwind Motion: The flat hull sections can be noisy and uncomfortable when sailing close-hauled in heavy seas.