Comet 910 Plus Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The design philosophy for the Comet 910 Plus focused on a hull form that could handle the choppy conditions of the Mediterranean while excelling in light to medium airs. According to technical documentation from Finot, the boat features a high ballast ratio which contributes to its reputation for stiffness and tracking "as if on rails."

The 910 Plus typically feels most at home when beating to windward. Owners and historical magazine tests frequently highlight its ability to point exceptionally high for a boat of its era, a trait attributed to the deep fin keel and well-proportioned spade rudder. The Plus version specifically refined the rig and sail handling; whereas early 910s were often rigged with massive genoas typical of the IOR era, the Plus handled the transition to more balanced sail plans with ease. It is known for a light, communicative touch on the helm, though it can become "tender" if over-canvassed in heavy gusts, necessitating early reefing to maintain optimal heel angles and prevent excessive weather helm.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The 910 Plus was a significant upgrade over its predecessor in terms of "liveability." The interior layout typically features a classic V-berth forward, a central salon with a folding table that converts to additional berths, and a functional galley to starboard. A notable improvement in the Plus model was the optimization of the aft area, providing more usable storage and an improved quarter berth layout compared to the more cramped racing-focused setups of the early 1970s.

The use of mahogany and teak joinery reflects the traditional craftsmanship of the Comar Yachts heritage. Headroom is generous for a 30-foot vessel of this vintage, standing at approximately 1.8 meters in the main salon. Sibling variants are essential to note for the buyer: the hull was the foundation for the original "Comet 910," the "Comet 910 VD" (a specific Van de Stadt variant), and eventually influenced the design of the Comet 10.50. The 910 Plus is widely considered the most polished iteration of the series, featuring more modern deck fittings and a slightly more ergonomic cockpit.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Synthesizing decades of owner feedback and technical surveys, prospective buyers should focus on these specific areas:

• Osmosis and Hull Integrity: Like many early fiberglass boats from the Mediterranean, the 910 Plus hulls should be checked for blistering. This is particularly prevalent around the waterline and the rudder post where water may have permeated older gelcoat.
• Deck Core and Delamination: Comar used sandwich construction in the deck to save weight. Buyers should check for soft spots or a "spongy" feel, especially around high-load areas like the chainplates, mast step, and stanchion bases, where unsealed deck hardware often leads to water ingress.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: Given the boat’s age and potential racing history, an inspection of the keel joint is critical. Look for "the smile" (a gap at the leading edge of the keel) or signs of previous groundings that may have stressed the fiberglass floors.
• Engine Aging: Many units were originally fitted with Farymann or early Nanni/Bukh diesels. These are often at the end of their service life; buyers should inspect for oil leaks, cooling system corrosion, and the condition of the saildrive seal if applicable.

Community & Resources

The Comar owner community is robust, particularly in Southern Europe. The Associazione Armatori Comet (Comet Owners Association) serves as the primary hub for technical advice, spare parts sourcing, and organizing regional regattas. While the group is primarily Italian-speaking, their archives on the 910 series are among the most comprehensive for technical drawings and rigging specifications.

The Verdict

The Comet 910 Plus is a timeless classic that offers a gateway into "made in Italy" performance cruising, proving that a 40-year-old design can still hold its own against modern coastal cruisers in both speed and style.

• Pros:
  • Excellent upwind performance and stiffness.
  • Timeless Italian aesthetic with high-quality interior joinery.
  • Strong resale value and active owner community in European markets.
• Cons:
  • IOR-influenced hull shape can be prone to rolling when sailing deep downwind.
  • Original engines and electronics are frequently outdated.
  • Cockpit ergonomics can feel tight when sailing with a full crew of four or more.