Comet 800 Information, Review, Specs

Built primarily between 1981 and 1987, the Comet 800 followed the "wide-body" design trends of the decade, utilizing a generous beam to provide stability and internal volume that was largely unprecedented for a vessel under 26 feet. While it is often overshadowed by its sibling, the Comet 801—which shared a similar hull but featured different deck moldings and interior finishes—the 800 remains a staple of the Mediterranean secondhand market, prized for its robust construction and the pedigree of its Jean-Marie Finot design.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Comet 800 are defined by a balanced sail plan and a hull form that favors light-to-moderate air, a hallmark of Mediterranean design. According to technical data from the Finot design archives, the boat features a high ballast ratio for its class, which provides a level of stiffness and "big boat" feel when navigating coastal chops.

On the water, the Comet 800 is known for its agility. The deep fin keel (typically drawing around 1.45 meters) allows for respectable upwind performance, though the boat is sensitive to trim. Like many Finot designs of this vintage, it carries its beam quite far aft, which provides excellent stability on a reach but requires the crew to reef early—usually when the true wind hits 15 to 18 knots—to prevent excessive weather helm. The helm is generally communicative, offering the "dinghy-like" responsiveness that Comar sought to instill in its smaller cruisers to appeal to sailors transitioning from racing classes.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its modest length, the Comet 800 maximizes its internal volume through a clever, open-plan layout. The absence of a full bulkhead between the saloon and the forward V-berth creates a sense of space that belies the boat's 7.65-meter LOA. The interior typically features a compact galley to port and a small navigation station or storage area to starboard.

The headroom is a standout feature for a 25-footer, often cited in contemporary reviews as exceeding 1.75 meters in the main cabin area. In terms of variations, the Comet 800 was often compared to the Comet 770 and the slightly larger Comet 850. While the Comet 801 (its closest sibling) often featured more traditional wood cabinetry and a more "finished" offshore feel, the 800 was frequently marketed as the more accessible, sporty alternative. Most units were powered by small Farymann or Bukh inboard diesels, though some earlier versions were fitted with outboard brackets for simplicity.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a Comet 800 today requires a diligent inspection of its 40-year-old fiberglass and mechanical systems. While Comar’s construction techniques were advanced for the time, several specific areas warrant attention:

1. Hull-Deck Joint: The joint should be inspected for stress cracks, particularly around the stanchion bases and the bow pulpit. Years of Mediterranean sun can also degrade the gelcoat, leading to "chalking" if the vessel has not been regularly polished.
2. Rudder Bearings: The semi-spade rudder on the Comet 800 can develop significant play over time. Buyers should check for wobble in the rudder stock while the boat is hauled out, as replacing these bushings can be a labor-intensive task.
3. Osmosis: While Comar hulls from this era are generally considered "dry," any vessel of this age should be checked for osmotic blistering, particularly if it has spent its entire life in warm Mediterranean waters without a modern epoxy barrier coat.
4. Chainplate Leakage: The chainplates pass through the deck and are a common point for water ingress. If left unsealed, moisture can migrate into the core of the deck sandwich, potentially leading to delamination or rot in the interior wooden supports.

The Verdict

The Comet 800 remains an excellent entry-level cruiser for those who appreciate classic Italian design and Finot’s naval architecture. It offers a blend of performance and livability that is difficult to find in more modern, "boxy" entry-level boats.

Pros:

• Exceptional Volume: Feels significantly larger than its 25-foot length suggests.
• Aesthetic Longevity: The clean lines and low profile have aged better than many of its contemporaries.
• Handling: Responsive and rewarding for sailors who enjoy active trimming.

Cons:

• Age-Related Maintenance: Buyers must be prepared for potential deck leaks and aging inboard engines.
• Light Air Bias: While fast in a breeze, it can become a handful in heavy weather without early reefing.
• Engine Access: The compact nature of the engine compartment makes routine maintenance a challenge for less-dexterous owners.