Kelt 7.60 Information, Review, Specs

The Kelt 7.60's production began in 1980, emerging from the boat-building legacy of Kelt Marine, a company founded by Etienne Renault in France. The builder article highlights Kelt's commitment to producing practical, well-engineered sailboats that were easy to handle and surprisingly competitive. This ethos is clearly embodied in the 7.60, which was designed by Jean Berret, a naval architect known for creating rugged and performance-oriented vessels with a family-cruising appeal. The design reflects a philosophy focused on exceeding customer expectations through efficiency and performance. Constructed from solid fiberglass, a common and efficient material for its era, the Kelt 7.60 offered durability and ease of maintenance. The boat was notably built in France and, under license, in Canada by Kelt Marine Inc., extending its reach to the North American market. While the doesn't indicate significant variations like MkI/MkII, a notable option mentioned in original brochures included a Yanmar 1GM diesel engine. The Kelt 7.60 was also offered with a fin keel, which provides excellent maneuverability, or a keel-centerboard configuration, allowing for shoal draft while retaining upwind capabilities.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its relatively compact size, the Kelt 7.60, with a length overall of just under 25 feet and a waterline length of 21 feet, was designed for efficient sailing. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.86, the Kelt 7.60 is classified as a cruiser-racer, suggesting good performance in a variety of wind conditions, especially in lighter airs where owners have praised its efficiency. Its ballast to displacement ratio, around 39%, contributes to its stability, allowing it to stand up to wind and maintain a steady course. The displacement to length ratio of approximately 202 positions it as a moderately light cruiser, indicating a blend of comfortable motion and respectable speed. Owners report the boat sails well in light breezes, with ideal conditions often cited around 15 mph of wind, and suggest reefing the main and rolling in some headsail at 20 mph. Its fin keel and transom-hung rudder contribute to splendid maneuverability and a balanced helm, with the tiller reportedly remaining steady even in varying wind conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom is not provided in the primary data, the Kelt 7.60's interior is described as a superb below-decks design that prioritizes comfort and efficiency. General layouts for boats of this size from the era typically feature a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that can convert to berths, a galley area, and a navigation station. Given Kelt Marine's reputation for practical and well-engineered designs, the interior would likely utilize a blend of fiberglass and wood trim, offering a functional and robust finish. Storage solutions would be integrated throughout, and proper ventilation would be crucial for comfort during extended periods aboard. Owners often find these boats to be surprisingly svelte and comfortable for their size, fitting with the "cruising without sacrificing comfort" design brief.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Kelt 7.60 frequently praise its solid construction and enjoyable sailing characteristics. Many appreciate its ability to sail efficiently in very light airs, often bringing a "big grin" to their faces during such times. The boat is generally regarded as rugged and serviceable, offering good value for its cost. While older boats inherently come with maintenance considerations, common discussions among owners revolve around routine items such as rebuilding winches or addressing potential issues with original masthead fittings, rather than systemic design flaws. The enduring presence of the Kelt 7.60 on the used boat market and active online forums attest to its durability and the satisfaction of its owners, who continue to appreciate its blend of performance, practicality, and comfort.