Comet 701 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Comet 701 is widely recognized for its "lively" character, a direct result of Jean-Marie Finot’s focus on light-air performance and hydrodynamic efficiency. With a displacement typically hovering around 1,300 kg and a generous sail area for its size, the boat possesses a favorable sail area-to-displacement ratio that allows it to accelerate quickly in conditions where heavier cruisers of the same era would remain sluggish.

In terms of handling, the 701 is known for being balanced but sensitive. The hull features a relatively narrow beam compared to modern designs, which helps it track well when heeled but also means it reaches its limit of stability faster than a wider-bodied modern daysailer. Owners frequently report that the boat "speaks" to the helmsman, providing clear feedback through the tiller. While it excels in light to moderate breezes, the 701 requires early reefing to stay upright and manageable once the wind exceeds 15–18 knots. Its performance upwind is particularly noted for a boat of this vintage, aided by a deep fin keel that provides substantial lift.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a boat just under 23 feet, the Comet 701 offers a surprisingly functional interior layout that maximized the available volume of the Finot hull. The standard configuration typically features four berths: a double V-berth forward and two settee berths in the main salon. The use of a "split" cabin arrangement was innovative for the time, providing a sense of separate living zones despite the limited square footage.

The 701 was built alongside the Comet 700, a closely related sibling that shared the same hull but often featured different deck moldings or interior finishes. While the 700 was often positioned as a more basic entry-point vessel, the 701 benefited from the evolving standards of Comar’s craftsmanship, including better-quality woodwork and more integrated storage solutions. Headroom is limited—a common trade-off in performance-oriented boats of this length—requiring a "crouch" for most adults, though the galley and small navigation station are ergonomically placed for use while seated.

Popular Mentions & Media

While the Comet 701 does not have the "cult" literary following of larger blue-water cruisers, it holds a significant cultural footprint in Italian sailing history. It was a staple of Mediterranean club racing throughout the late 1970s and 1980s. Its pedigree is frequently discussed in historical retrospectives of Groupe Finot, where it is cited as the model that helped democratize performance sailing in Southern Europe.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Comet 701 should approach the purchase with an awareness of its age and the construction methods of the 1970s.

• Osmosis and Gelcoat: Like many early fiberglass boats from the Mediterranean, the 701 is prone to osmotic blistering. A thorough hull inspection is necessary, especially if the boat has been kept in the water year-round without a modern epoxy barrier coat.
• Deck Core Integrity: The deck utilizes a sandwich construction. Over decades, hardware fittings (stanchions, cleats) may have leaked, leading to soft spots in the core. Walking the side decks and checking for "flex" or "crunching" sounds is a priority.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: The cast iron fin keel is bolted to the hull. Buyers should inspect the "smile" at the leading edge of the keel-hull joint and check the internal keel bolts for corrosion or signs of movement.
• Rudder Assembly: The spade rudder is a known wear point. Excessive play in the rudder stock or bushings is common and may require the replacement of the delrin or bronze bearings to restore precise steering.

Community & Resources

The legacy of the Comet 701 is maintained by a dedicated community of Italian and European sailors. Technical information and historical context are frequently documented by the Associazione Italiana Classe Comet, which serves as a central hub for owners of both vintage and modern Comar yachts. Detailed architectural drawings and original design specifications remain accessible through the Finot designer archives.

The Verdict

The Comet 701 is an excellent entry-level classic for sailors who value performance and "feel" over sheer interior volume. It remains a stylish and capable coastal cruiser that punches above its weight in light air.

Pros:

• Excellent light-air performance and windward ability.
• Timeless Italian design by a world-class naval architect.
• Manageable size for solo sailing or trailer-sailing.
• High production numbers mean parts and advice are relatively easy to find.

Cons:

• Limited headroom and cramped quarters for extended cruising.
• Requires early reefing due to its narrow, tender hull form.
• Potential for age-related fiberglass and core issues common to 1970s builds.