Comet 35 S Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Comet 35 S is defined by its agility and responsiveness, traits inherited from its designer, Andrea Vallicelli, who brought America’s Cup sensibilities to the Comar fleet. The hull features a moderate beam that is carried well aft, providing significant form stability when the boat is pressed hard on a reach. However, the 35 S truly excels in light-to-moderate air, where its high-aspect-ratio fractional rig and generous sail area allow it to outpace heavier cruisers in its class. According to technical assessments often cited by the Italian marine press, such as Vela e Motore, the boat’s performance is bolstered by a high-efficiency T-bulb keel, which lowers the center of gravity and allows for a narrower, faster hull shape without sacrificing stiffness.

Under sail, the boat tracks with precision thanks to a deep, high-performance spade rudder. The steering is typically described as "fingertip" sensitive, providing the helmsperson with immediate feedback. The deck layout is optimized for short-handed sailing, with primary winches positioned within reach of the helm, while the mainsheet system is often set up in a German-style configuration for fine-tuning. While the boat is stiff and capable in a breeze, its lighter displacement means it requires early reefing to maintain an upright posture and optimal speed in over 18 knots of true wind.

Interior Comfort & Variations

True to the "Made in Italy" ethos of Comar Yachts, the interior of the Comet 35 S is a masterclass in modern nautical aesthetics. The shipyard utilized light-colored woods, typically oak or cherry, combined with white liners to create a sense of volume that belies its 35-foot length. The standard layout features two private cabins—a generous V-berth forward and a large longitudinal double cabin aft—along with a single head located to starboard.

The salon is characterized by a central folding table flanked by two straight settees that can serve as additional sea berths. One of the standout features of this model is the linear or L-shaped galley (depending on the specific production year), which offers surprising counter space for a performance-oriented vessel. Headroom is notable for a "Sport" model, maintaining a comfortable height throughout the main cabin. Sibling models built on similar design philosophies include the Comet 38 S and the flagship Comet 52 S, which share the same minimalist aesthetic and vacuum-infused construction techniques. While the 35 S was primarily sold in a two-cabin configuration to maximize storage and cockpit space, a few custom interior variations exist depending on the original owner's specifications.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a pre-owned Comet 35 S, potential buyers should focus on the following technical areas:

1. Keel Attachment and Grid: Because the 35 S is often campaigned in club racing, the internal floor grid and keel bolts should be inspected for signs of stress or movement, especially if the vessel has experienced a grounding.
2. Sail Drive Seal: The model typically utilizes a Yanmar or Lombardini engine with a sail drive. Check the age of the rubber diaphragm seal; these generally require replacement every 7 to 10 years to maintain insurance compliance.
3. Deck Hardware Sealing: The sleek, low-profile hatches and deck organizers are stylish, but the sealant around these fittings can degrade in high-UV environments. Check for moisture ingress around the chainplates and the mast step.
4. Rudder Bearings: Due to the high loads placed on the deep spade rudder, the self-aligning bearings can develop play over time. Test the helm for any "clunking" sensation while at anchor or under motor.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Comet 35 S are supported by a dedicated network, primarily centered in the Mediterranean. The Comet Owners Association (Associazione Armatori Comet) serves as the primary hub for technical documentation and historical archives for Comar vessels. While much of the formal documentation is in Italian, the community is active in sharing maintenance tips for the Vallicelli-designed "S" range. Technical specifications and original build philosophies are also preserved through the archives of Comar Yachts.

The Verdict

The Comet 35 S is a sophisticated choice for the sailor who refuses to sacrifice speed for comfort. It remains one of the most aesthetically pleasing production boats of its era, offering a level of "Italian style" that few contemporary builders can match.

Pros:

• Exceptional Light-Air Performance: The tall rig and slippery hull make it a standout in summer Mediterranean conditions.
• Elegant Design: The Vallicelli lines remain contemporary and stylish nearly two decades after its launch.
• High-Quality Construction: The use of vacuum-infusion in later models results in a light, stiff, and osmosis-resistant hull.

Cons:

• Cockpit Depth: The open, sporty cockpit can feel "exposed" in heavy offshore conditions compared to a deep-cockpit blue water cruiser.
• Active Trimming Required: This is not a "set it and forget it" boat; it requires active sail trim to perform at its peak.
• Market Availability: The 35 S is relatively rare outside of Europe, making parts or model-specific knowledge harder to find in North America.