Compis 345 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Compis 345 is characterized by its balance and predictability, a hallmark of Bernt Andersson’s designs. The boat features a 7/8 fractional rig, which was the standard for high-performance Swedish cruisers of the time, allowing for a large, powerful mainsail and a smaller, easily tacked jib. With a displacement of approximately 4,800 kg and a lead keel (in most versions), the boat possesses a high ballast ratio that translates to excellent stiffness and the ability to carry sail well into the upper teens of wind speed.

The rudder is deep and semi-balanced, providing the helmsman with sensitive feedback without the heavy load common in older, full-keel designs. According to technical assessments found in Swedish maritime literature like Curt Gelin's "700 Segelbåtar i Test," the Compis 345 tracks exceptionally well due to its fine entry and moderate beam. While it is not a pure racing machine by modern standards, its performance in light air is surprisingly agile, a benefit of its relatively low wetted surface area and efficient rig. The sibling model, the Compis 33, shared these traits, but the 345’s slightly longer waterline offers a marginal improvement in hull speed and stability when reaching.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Compis 345 is a testament to 1980s Scandinavian craftsmanship, utilizing high-quality teak joinery and a layout that prioritizes functional offshore living. The standard configuration includes a V-berth forward, a central salon with two settee berths, and a dedicated navigation station to starboard. The L-shaped galley is situated to port, featuring a deep sink and ample storage, designed to be usable even when the boat is heeled.

One of the most significant upgrades over the earlier Compis 33 is the treatment of the aft section. The 345 features a more comfortable aft cabin and improved access to the engine compartment. Headroom is generous for a 34-foot boat of this vintage, typically hovering around 1.85 meters (6'1") in the main salon. Throughout its production, minor variations in upholstery and wood finishes were offered, but the core layout remained consistent. The Compis 363, a larger sibling designed by the same office, offers a similar aesthetic but with an expanded mid-section and increased volume, whereas the smaller Compis 28 remains a simpler, more compact daysailing alternative.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Compis 345 should focus on the technical realities of 1980s fiberglass construction. While the hulls are generally solid, specific areas require close inspection:

• S-Drive Seal: Most units were originally equipped with Volvo Penta engines and S-drives. The rubber diaphragm seal between the drive and the hull has a manufacturer-recommended lifespan of seven years. If there is no record of replacement, this should be a priority for the buyer.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era, the Compis 345 uses a balsa-core sandwich construction for the deck. Moisture ingress around stanchion bases, chainplates, or the mast step can lead to delamination and soft spots.
• Iron Keel Maintenance: While many Compis models feature lead keels, some variants or earlier hulls may have iron keels. Owners on technical forums often note the importance of checking for "keel smiles" (cracks at the hull-keel joint) and rust blooms that may indicate the need for a total stripping and epoxy treatment.
• Rigging Age: Given the age of these vessels, the standing rigging—if original—is well beyond its safe operational life. Inspect the swage fittings and the mast step for signs of compression or stress.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and owner history is the Compisförbundet, the official association for Compis yachts. This organization maintains a technical wiki and an archive of original brochures and sail plans, providing an invaluable resource for restoration projects and historical verification.

The Verdict

The Compis 345 is a quintessential Swedish cruiser that offers a level of build quality and sailing pleasure rarely found in modern mass-produced yachts of the same size. It is an ideal choice for a sailor who values traditional aesthetics and balanced handling over the cavernous (but often less sea-kindly) interiors of modern wide-beam cruisers.

Pros:

• Excellent upwind performance and stiff, stable handling.
• High-quality Scandinavian interior woodwork and joinery.
• Integrated swim platform provides better utility than the older Compis 33.
• Robust lead keel (on most hulls) ensures a low center of gravity.

Cons:

• The narrow stern limits the size of the aft cabin compared to contemporary 34-footers.
• Aging Volvo Penta engines and S-drives may require significant investment.
• Sandwich deck construction requires vigilant maintenance to avoid core rot.