Kelt 29 Information, Review, Specs

The Kelt 29 emerged during a period when Kelt Marine, based in Vannes, France, was a prominent force in European yachting, known for producing innovative and accessible sailboats. The company, founded by Etienne Renault in 1964 and officially operating as Kelt Marine Inc. from 1974 to 1986, established a design philosophy centered on practicality, seaworthiness, and precision craftsmanship using durable fiberglass construction. The Kelt 29 began its production run in 1983.

Designers Gilles Vaton and Patrick Roséo focused on creating a significantly more spacious hull than many contemporary vessels of its size, aiming to maximize interior volume without sacrificing sailing characteristics. This model, originally known as the Kelt 8.5, continued its legacy under the Kirie "FEELING" brand after Kelt Marine's acquisition in 1986, being produced as the Feeling 29. Over its production span, which for the Kelt 8.5 continued until around 1996, the boat was offered primarily in a fin keel configuration, as well as a popular swing or lifting keel version, providing versatility for different cruising grounds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Kelt 29 is designed to offer a balanced and responsive sailing experience. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 16.03, the Kelt 29 generally exhibits good performance, particularly noted for its ability in lighter winds, a characteristic praised by owners and reviewers alike. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio of about 0.41 indicates a substantial amount of ballast relative to its overall weight, contributing to good stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to wind and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway.

Despite a Displacement to Length ratio of around 420.9, which typically suggests a heavier, more traditional cruiser, the Kelt 29 is often described as "quite quick and close-winded" for its class. Owners report good speed through the water, especially at the higher end of its performance curve, and commend its excellent sailing performance against other fin keel boats. While some older reviews mention a shallow rudder, owners generally report no issues with its handling or control. The design strikes a harmonious balance between performance and the comfort expected of a cruising yacht.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Kelt 29 is renowned for its surprising spaciousness, a direct result of Vaton and Roséo's design emphasis on maximizing internal volume. The boat typically offers a comfortable headroom of approximately 1.80 meters (around 5 feet 11 inches), contributing significantly to onboard comfort. The layout is practical and efficiently designed for optimal use of space, creating a light and airy ambiance below deck.

Common interior arrangements include a V-berth forward, a compact yet functional galley, and a salon area designed for comfortable seating and dining. A notable feature often found is a double cabin aft, typically illuminated by a large porthole-style window, which is quite generous for a boat of this size. The general finish quality aligns with Kelt's reputation for precision craftsmanship, often featuring a blend of practical fiberglass surfaces and warm wood trim. Storage solutions are integrated throughout, supporting the boat's cruising aspirations.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Kelt 29 (Kelt 8.5, Feeling 29) frequently praise its robust construction and comfortable motion, particularly in varying sea states. Many highlight the boat's excellent sailing abilities, noting its responsiveness and close-winded performance, which makes it enjoyable for both day sailing and longer passages. The spacious and practical interior is another consistent strength, with many appreciating the generous headroom and comfortable accommodations for a vessel of its length.

While specific recurring weaknesses are not widely reported, the boat's age may necessitate attention to original deck fittings and systems, as is common with many boats from its era. Overall, the enduring presence of Kelt 29s and their derivatives on the used boat market is a testament to their durability and the high level of satisfaction among their owners, who value these boats for their capable sailing characteristics and comfortable cruising capabilities.