From the vibrant boat-building hub of Vannes, France, Kelt Marine emerged as a significant force in the European yachting scene during the late 20th century. Though its official manufacturing period as "Kelt Marine Inc." spanned from 1974 to 1986, the company's roots trace back to the founding of "Kelt Boats" by Etienne Renault in 1964, setting the stage for a legacy of innovative and accessible sailboats that left a lasting impression on the marine industry.
The genesis of Kelt Marine is intrinsically linked to Etienne Renault, who founded Kelt Boats in 1964. While specific details of Renault's background are not widely documented, his vision laid the groundwork for a company that would eventually become a prominent French sailboat manufacturer. The transformation into Kelt Marine, with its official start in 1974, marked a focused push into sailboat production.
The very first model launched by the Kelt shipyard was the Kelt 620. This initial offering immediately signaled Kelt's intent to produce boats capable of mid-shore cruising, hinting at a design philosophy that blended practicality with seaworthiness. Like most production sailboats of its era, the Kelt 620, and subsequent models, were constructed from fiberglass, a material revolutionizing boat building with its durability, ease of maintenance, and efficiency in manufacturing.
History and Evolution
Kelt Marine quickly established itself as one of the principal French sailboat builders from the late 1970s into the early 1980s. A significant milestone in the company's expansion was the establishment of a subsidiary in Ontario, Canada, in the early to mid-1980s. This Canadian operation, Kelt Marine Inc. at 22 Allaura Blvd, Aurora, manufactured popular Kelt models such as the Kelt 7.60 and Kelt 8.50 under license, catering to the North American market.
A crowning achievement for Kelt Marine came in 1980 when the Kelt 7.60 (also known as the Kelt 7.6) was awarded the prestigious "Boat of the Year" title at the Paris Boat Show. This recognition underscored Kelt's ability to produce well-designed and highly regarded vessels. By 1986, Kelt Marine Inc. ceased operations. The Kelt brand, however, continued its journey through acquisition by Kirie, a French boat builder also based in Vannes. Following this acquisition, many of Kelt's successful models continued to be produced and sold under Kirie's "FEELING" brand, extending their lifespan and impact on the sailing world. While Kelt Marine's distinct production ran until 1986, boats bearing the 'Kelt' name were reportedly available until around 1989, likely clearing existing stock or fulfilling final orders.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Kelt Marine cultivated a reputation for producing practical, well-engineered sailboats that were both easy to handle and surprisingly competitive. The brand became particularly known for appealing to a broad audience, including first-time boat buyers, due to the user-friendly nature of its designs. Kelt boats are described as embodying "precision craftsmanship and maritime passion," suggesting a commitment to quality in their construction.
A key aspect of Kelt's design philosophy was its collaboration with talented naval architects. Foremost among them was Jean Berret, who designed the highly successful Kelt 7.6/7.60. Berret's designs for Kelt were characterized by their ruggedness and an inherent ability to perform well, even in racing scenarios, despite their family-cruising appeal. Another notable designer who contributed to the Kelt line was Gilles Ollier, responsible for models like the Kelt 800 (also known as Kelt 8M). These collaborations ensured that Kelt boats incorporated contemporary design principles, contributing to their efficiency and appeal.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Several Kelt models achieved significant recognition and sales during the company's operational years. The Kelt 620 holds the distinction of being the first model launched by the shipyard, designed specifically for mid-shore cruising, setting the tone for Kelt's practical approach.
However, the Kelt 7.6/7.60 undoubtedly stands as Kelt Marine's most iconic and successful sailboat. Designed by Jean Berret, a remarkable 489 units of this trailerable sailboat were built between 1980 and 1984 in both France and Canada. Its "Boat of the Year" award in 1980 cemented its status, highlighting its advanced engineering and design for its time. Owners praised its ease of handling and competitive performance, making it a popular choice for both new and experienced sailors.
Other notable models included the Kelt 8.50, which was also manufactured in Canada, and the Kelt 5.50, another popular model for family cruising. The continuation of Kelt designs under the Kirie FEELING brand after the acquisition speaks volumes about the enduring quality and appeal of Kelt's naval architecture. Models like the Kirie Feeling 326 and Feeling 1040 GTE illustrate this lineage.
The Builder Today
While Kelt Marine as a standalone builder ceased operations in 1986, its designs and legacy live on through the Kirie-built FEELING yachts. This acquisition ensured that the popular Kelt models continued to be produced, evolving under a new brand name. Today, the appeal of these boats, whether original Kelts or their Kirie Feeling counterparts, lies in their robust construction, comfortable interiors, and capable sailing characteristics. The enduring presence of used Kelt boats on the market is a testament to their durability and the satisfaction of their owners. While there isn't a formally recognized "Kelt Marine" owner community actively building new boats under that name, the owners of these classic French cruisers continue to sail and maintain them, embodying a quiet appreciation for a brand that delivered thoughtful and accessible yachting.
