Sailing Performance & Handling
The design philosophy behind the Comet 801, as articulated in the technical archives of Groupe Finot, emphasized a balance between ease of handling and competitive speed under the IOR (International Offshore Rule) era constraints. The hull features a relatively wide beam for its length, which provides significant initial stability and a spacious cockpit. This width, combined with a lead fin keel, allows the boat to stand up to its canvas well in a freshening breeze.
Under sail, the Comet 801 is known for its "stiff" feel and predictable tracking. The steering is typically responsive, whether equipped with the standard tiller or the occasional aftermarket wheel conversion. Because the boat was designed during a period when headsails provided the bulk of the driving force, the sail plan often utilizes large overlapping genoas. While this provides excellent light-air performance, it requires an active crew during tacks. Owner anecdotes from Italian sailing circles often highlight the boat's ability to punch through a Mediterranean chop without the excessive pounding common in lighter, flat-bottomed modern production boats. Its displacement-to-length ratio suggests a hull that prioritizes momentum and sea-kindliness over raw planing potential, making it a reassuring platform for coastal passages.
Interior Comfort & Variations
For a vessel measuring just 7.68 meters (approximately 25 feet), the Comet 801 offers a remarkably sophisticated interior layout. The cabin was designed to accommodate a family of four or five, featuring a double V-berth in the bow, two longitudinal settees in the salon, and occasionally a quarter berth to starboard. A compact galley is usually situated to port, equipped with a small sink and a two-burner stove.
One of the defining characteristics of Comar’s interior work during this period was the use of warm wood veneers and functional moldings, which elevated the 801 above many of its contemporary "plastic" competitors. Headroom is generous for a boat of this size, particularly in the main salon area. The 801 shares design DNA with its siblings, the smaller Comet 701 and the legendary Comet 910. While the 910 offered a more expansive "dinette" arrangement and a dedicated chart table, the 801 distilled these features into a tighter package that remained manageable for a cruising couple. Variations in the interior often depended on the year of production, with later models seeing slight improvements in ventilation and storage locker configurations.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Purchasing a Comet 801 today requires a careful assessment of its age-related structural health. As a product of the 1970s, several technical areas deserve scrutiny:
- Osmotic Blistering: Early fiberglass production at the Sipla/Comar yard did not always use the moisture-resistant resins available today. Buyers should haul the boat to inspect for signs of osmosis in the hull laminate.
- Deck Core Integrity: The deck utilizes a sandwich construction. Over time, hardware such as stanchion bases, cleats, and the mast step may have allowed water to seep into the core. Spongy sections of the deck or brown staining around interior fasteners are red flags for core rot.
- Original Engine Condition: Many 801s were originally fitted with Farymann or Nanni diesel engines. While robust, parts for these 40-year-old power plants are becoming scarce. A boat that has already been repowered with a modern Volvo Penta or Yanmar represents significantly higher value.
- Chainplates and Rigging: The stainless steel chainplates are buried behind interior cabinetry and are prone to crevice corrosion. A thorough inspection of the mast-to-hull connections is vital for offshore safety.
Community & Resources
The Comet 801 remains a popular sight in Italian and French marinas, supported by a dedicated enthusiast base. Owners often congregate through the Associazione Armatori Comet, an organization dedicated to the preservation and technical support of Comar’s heritage models. This community is a primary source for sourcing original hull specifications and advice on period-correct restorations.
The Verdict
The Comet 801 is an elegant, robustly built classic that offers a "big boat" feel in a compact, affordable package. While it requires the maintenance typical of a vintage fiberglass yacht, its sailing manners and Italian styling remain highly attractive for those seeking a soulful coastal cruiser.
Pros:
- Excellent stability and sea-kindliness for its size.
- Timeless Italian design and high-quality interior woodwork.
- Strong support from a dedicated owner community in Europe.
Cons:
- High potential for osmosis and deck core issues due to age.
- The large overlapping headsails can be physically demanding for short-handed crews.
- Limited headroom for sailors over six feet tall in the forward cabin.
