Looks like Small Craft finally got around to reviewing the ComPac 16 in the latest issue. Mostly focuses on the original model and the 16/2.
A somewhat subdued though still positive recommendation. At least that was my impression. There isn't any surprises for anyone here. It is noteworthy that the owner comments seem to reflect satisfaction even while mentioning the shortcomings of the design. I guess that's a confirmation that all boat designs contain compromises and don't necessarily mean a defect.
For anyone interested, the Jul/Aug 2011 issue. Has a ComPac 16 picture on the cover.
mel
Nice review of the CP16/1. At first I was a little disappointed that they didn't review the CP16/2 or 3 (arguably the most coveted models with teak interiors and bowsprits). Then I realized that 75% of the total boats produced at the factory were CP16/1's. Furthermore, as shown on page 6, SCA bought a CP16/1 for review and personal use. The CP16, in all forms, is truly a legend in small boats.
Al and Mel,
As a new member of CPYOA and new owner of a CP16, I immediately dashed to my local Barnes & Noble and picked up a copy... also wanted the US copy of Katie Perry but was able to restrain myself! I found the review useful in that it reinforced all the reasons I decided to buy a CP16. About 4 or 5 years ago I saw one for sale in Morrisville, Pa. that I drooled all over. It must have been a CP16/3 since it had a bowsprit and looked brand new. It was a bit pricey for me, about 4K so I passed on it... but, what a beautiful boat. From that moment on, it had to be a CP16. Just like my first car... a '52 MGTD. I lusted 'til I got it! No, the TD is gone. Don't plan on making the same mistake with the Com-Pac (other than maybe going bigger someday!?).
Regarding the later model's interiors. Are the wood trim pieces still available from Hutchins? My interior is really spartan, which is okay, but it would sure be nice to have some teak to varnish! If not, I think that it could possibly make a nice cottage business for someone with the skills and tools. I would think there is a market for them. I know I would be interested.
Marty K.
Marty,
If you would like to varnish some teak no need to slow down your beautiful 16 by adding weight. Just come over to Tampa bay and you can varnish my teak all you want!
Billy
I was going to say that too. I have a load of teak you can varnish on my CP-19.
I'm letting it go back all-a-natural with a little help from scrubbing with a nylon brush every couple of weeks in the sun.
All except the tiller. I did 17 coats last winter. That's enough of that nonsense, me thinks.
skip.
Am I to understand that Marty is volunteering to varnish all the teak of all the CPYOA members? What a guy! I'll raise a grog to him!!!
Bob23...I use Flagship for the exterior, Epifanes hand rubbed on the interior.
Boy, did I open a can of worms! I like the idea of having teak to look at, not necessarily expending the effort to keep it nice. My dad had a (nice?) 30' Chris Craft Cavalier back in the 60s. Had enough teak to last a lifetime. Not that Tampa Bay isn't tempting! Probably cooler there than here in SE PA (105 degrees!).
Marty K.