Sailing Performance & Handling
The Comet 301 is characterized by the signature Finot hull form of its era: a relatively wide beam carried well aft and a low-profile coachroof that reduces windage. This geometry provides a high degree of initial stability, allowing the boat to stand up to its canvas in a breeze better than many of its more slender predecessors. While technical data for the 301 indicates a displacement-to-length ratio that sits firmly in the "performance cruiser" category, the boat is noted for its responsiveness in light to moderate air, a trait inherited from Finot’s success in the Mini Transat and Open classes.
Owners often report that the 301 tracks well upwind, provided the headsail is properly trimmed to prevent excessive weather helm—a common characteristic of the wide-stern designs from this period. The boat was typically rigged as a fractional sloop, which offers greater control over mast bend and mainsail shape compared to masthead rigs. According to technical archives from the designer, the hull was engineered to perform efficiently under both a standard deep-draft keel and a more shallow-draft bulb configuration, though the deeper version remains the preference for those prioritizing windward performance.
Interior Comfort & Variations
For a vessel of just over 30 feet, the Comet 301’s interior was considered remarkably voluminous at the time of its debut. Comar utilized the boat's 3.05-meter beam to create a layout that felt significantly larger than the Comet 801 or the earlier Comet 910. The standard configuration typically features an aft cabin to port—a luxury for a 30-footer in 1987—and a functional, if compact, head to starboard.
The joinery reflects the Italian "classical style" mentioned in Comar’s builder history, utilizing warm woods and practical fiberglass liners to balance aesthetics with structural rigidity. A sibling model, the Comet 285, shared much of the same design DNA but offered a scaled-down version of this layout. Conversely, those seeking more space often moved toward the Comet 333, which utilized a similar hull philosophy on a larger scale. The 301 specifically gained praise for its salon, which features two longitudinal settees and a central folding table, providing enough seating for a full crew of five or six.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of a Comet 301 should focus their surveys on several age-related areas common to Comar builds of the late 80s:
- Deck Delamination: Like many production boats of this era that used sandwich construction with balsa or foam cores, the Comet 301 can suffer from soft spots around high-load deck fittings (cleats and stanchion bases) if the sealant has failed over time.
- Grid Structure: Inspect the internal fiberglass grid (the "spider") for signs of detachment from the hull, especially near the keel bolts, which may indicate a history of hard groundings.
- Engine Maintenance: Many units were originally fitted with Volvo Penta or Nanni diesel engines. Given their age, specific attention should be paid to the heat exchanger and the condition of the saildrive diaphragm, if so equipped.
- Rudder Bearings: Finot designs of this period often utilized spade rudders that can develop play in the bearings, leading to a "vibration" or "clunking" sensation through the tiller or wheel.
Community & Resources
The legacy of the Comet 301 is preserved largely through the broader Comar community in Europe. The most prominent resource for technical documentation and owner support is the Comet Owners Association (Associazione Armatori Comet), based in Italy. This group maintains archives of original brochures and provides a forum for discussing restoration projects and performance tuning.
The Verdict
The Comet 301 remains a compelling choice for sailors seeking an affordable entry into the performance-cruising market with a touch of Italian flair. It successfully bridges the gap between a nimble club racer and a capable weekend cruiser.
Pros
- Excellent performance-to-comfort ratio for its size.
- Innovative interior layout for the late 1980s, including a dedicated aft cabin.
- Strong pedigree from a top-tier naval architect (Groupe Finot).
Cons
- Potential for deck core issues if not meticulously maintained.
- Limited availability in the North American market; most units are located in the Mediterranean.
- Wide beam aft requires careful sail trimming to manage weather helm in heavy air.
