Comet 45 S Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Comet 45 S is widely regarded for its "sweet" helm and exceptional light-air performance. With a high-aspect-ratio fractional rig and a generous sail area, the boat initiates movement in as little as five knots of true wind. Naval architect Andrea Vallicelli focused heavily on reducing wetted surface area while maintaining enough beam to provide high initial stability. Under sail, the boat tracks with precision, a characteristic often attributed to its deep T-bulb keel (available in standard 2.20m or racing 2.70m drafts) and a balanced spade rudder that provides high-fidelity feedback to the twin steering wheels.

The deck layout is optimized for "easy sailing" or shorthanded maneuvers. A standout feature is the recessed mainsheet traveler located on the cockpit floor, which keeps the deck clean while providing excellent leverage for trim. According to performance evaluations from the European Yacht of the Year jury—where the Comet 45 S was a notable contender—the vessel exhibits a stiff, predictable motion in a seaway, though its flat sections can lead to occasional slamming when driven hard into a steep head-sea. The hull’s narrow entry allows it to point exceptionally high, often outperforming dedicated cruisers of similar length by 3 to 5 degrees of leeway.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the Comet 45 S departs from traditional dark-wood maritime aesthetics in favor of a bright, minimalist Italian "loft" style. The standard configuration features a three-cabin, two-head layout. The owner’s suite forward is particularly spacious, often featuring a central island berth and an en-suite head with a separate shower stall. The use of light-colored oaks or cherries, combined with extensive use of white lacquered surfaces and recessed LED lighting, creates an airy atmosphere that maximizes the 4.20-meter beam.

Comar offered several variations to suit different owner profiles. While the 45 S is the core model, it shares DNA with its smaller sibling, the Comet 41 S, and the larger Comet 51 S. The 45 S variant was also produced with an optional "Race" package, which replaced the standard interior cabinetry with lighter composites and added carbon fiber reinforcements to the hull grid. Conversely, some hulls were fitted with a "Comfort" package that included heavier teak joinery and additional soundproofing for the engine compartment, which typically houses a 55hp Lombardini or Yanmar saildrive.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Comet 45 S gained significant international attention when it was nominated for the European Yacht of the Year award shortly after its debut. It has been featured extensively in Mediterranean sailing journals like Giornale della Vela and Voiles et Voiliers, where it was praised for its balance of "fuoriclasse" (class-leading) speed and habitable luxury. While it has not been a primary subject of mainstream maritime books, it remains a staple of the "Fast Cruiser" circuit in the Middle Sea, frequently appearing in the results of the Giraglia Rolex Cup and the Copa del Rey.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a pre-owned Comet 45 S should focus on the following technical areas:

• Keel Attachment & Grid: Because these boats are often campaigned in club races, the internal galvanized steel or carbon-reinforced floors should be inspected for "stress crazing" near the keel bolts, which may indicate a previous grounding.
• Recessed Deck Channels: The recessed channels for halyards and the mainsheet traveler are prone to trapping salt and debris. Ensure the drainage holes are clear to prevent standing water from migrating into the core around deck hardware.
• Rudder Bearings: The high-performance Jefa steering systems used in many units require periodic bearing replacement. Check for any "play" or vibration in the twin wheels while under power.
• Saildrive Seal: As many units are approaching the 15-to-20-year mark, the rubber diaphragm seal on the saildrive unit (Lombardini or Yanmar) should be verified for replacement history, as these typically have a 7-to-10-year service life.
• Teak Deck Wear: If the vessel is equipped with the optional vacuum-bonded teak decks, check the thickness of the laminate. Italian builds of this era used high-quality teak, but aggressive cleaning can lead to exposed screw heads or thinning in high-traffic areas near the winches.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Comet 45 S are supported by a dedicated network primarily centered in Europe. The Comar Yachts official website remains a source for historical technical data and parts inquiries. Additionally, the Comet Owners Association (Associazione Armatori Comet) provides a robust platform for technical exchange, though much of their documentation is in Italian. Owners also frequently collaborate through regional cruising clubs in Italy and France to share maintenance tips for the specific Lombardini engine configurations found in many Comar builds.

The Verdict

The Comet 45 S is a sophisticated "Made in Italy" performance cruiser that manages to feel like a custom yacht without the associated price tag. It is an ideal choice for the sailor who refuses to sacrifice speed for comfort.

Pros:

• Exceptional Light-Air Performance: Easily outpaces heavy-displacement cruisers in Mediterranean conditions.
• Timeless Aesthetics: The Vallicelli lines remain modern and sleek decades after the initial launch.
• High-End Construction: Vacuum-infusion technology ensures a stiff and durable hull.

Cons:

• Technical Complexity: Systems like recessed travelers and hydraulic backstays require more maintenance than standard cruisers.
• Ergonomics: The low-profile coachroof, while beautiful, results in slightly less headroom in the extreme ends of the boat compared to "deck saloon" competitors.
• Availability: Units are relatively rare outside of Europe, making spare parts (specifically interior trim) harder to source in North America.