Comet vs DS-16
How do the Comet and DS-16 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Comet 
DS-16 | Comet | DS-16 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 16.0 ft4.88 m | 16.0 ft4.88 m |
| Waterline length | 15.0 ft4.57 m | 14.3 ft4.37 m |
| Beam | 5.5 ft1.68 m | 6.0 ft1.83 m |
| Draft | 1.8 ft0.53 m | 4.0 ft1.22 m |
| Displacement | 260 lb118 kg | 500 lb227 kg |
| Ballast | —— | 135 lb61 kg |
| Sail area | 135 ft²12.5 m² | 155 ft²14.4 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 53.02 | 39.37 |
| Displacement / Length | 34 | 76 |
| Comfort ratio | 2.7 | 4.8 |
| Capsize screening | 3.45 | 3.02 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.2 | 5.1 |
Comet vs DS-16: the short version
- The Comet and DS-16 are close in length (16.0 ft4.88 m vs 16.0 ft4.88 m ).
- The DS-16 is heavier, displacing about 92% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Comet carries the more powerful rig (53.0 vs 39.4), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The DS-16 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the DS-16 rates better for offshore work (3.02 vs 3.45).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.