Kelt 9 M Information, Review, Specs

The Kelt 9 M's production run from 1980 to 1984 places it within a dynamic period for Kelt Marine, a company founded by Etienne Renault with a focus on innovative and accessible sailboats. During this time, Kelt, operating from Vannes, France, and later through a subsidiary in Ontario, Canada, was known for its "precision craftsmanship and maritime passion," emphasizing well-engineered, user-friendly designs that appealed to a broad audience, including first-time boat buyers.

The design of the Kelt 9 M was entrusted to Philippe Briand, a naval architect celebrated for his ability to craft performance-oriented yet comfortable yachts. While Briand's general design philosophy often leans towards sustainable technology and forward-thinking concepts in modern yachting, for the Kelt 9 M, his focus was on creating a capable cruiser that embodied the brand's ethos of blending practicality with seaworthiness. This model was offered with significant variations, including a standard fin keel providing a maximum draft of 5.83 feet, as well as a shoal draft option at 3.42 feet and a keel and centerboard version, catering to diverse cruising grounds and owner preferences for shallow water access.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Kelt 9 M is characterized by a moderate design that translates into a reasonably good performer on the water. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 17.28, she exhibits a balanced performance profile, capable of making good progress in a variety of wind conditions without being overly sensitive in lighter airs or underpowered in stronger breezes.

Her ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of around 0.23, while moderate, contributes to the boat's "reasonably stable / stiff" nature, allowing her to stand up to a decent amount of wind. This provides a secure and predictable motion for her size. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of roughly 228 further categorizes the Kelt 9 M as a moderate cruiser, indicating a hull form that offers a comfortable ride while still being efficient enough for passage making. Anecdotal reports suggest the Kelt 9 M handles well, being described as a "sporty & stable sailing yacht". Owners generally find it to be a very good boat.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed textual descriptions of the Kelt 9 M's interior are less common in online resources, diagrams and general owner sentiments suggest a functional and practical layout typical of French cruisers of its era. The interior likely features a V-berth forward, a compact head, a salon area with settees that may convert into berths, and a galley. Max headroom is not specified in the provided data. Finish quality would generally align with Kelt Marine's reputation for "precision craftsmanship," likely incorporating robust fiberglass moldings with some wood trim, offering a balance of durability and a warm, functional environment. Storage solutions would be integrated throughout, aimed at accommodating provisions and gear for coastal or extended weekend cruises.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Kelt 9 M generally express satisfaction with their vessels, often describing them as robust and capable boats. The solid construction and the overall design are frequently praised, making them enduring choices for those seeking a reliable cruiser from the late 20th century. One recurring point of discussion among owners, however, has been the potential for "barre dure" or hard steering, suggesting that the steering system or rudder balance might occasionally require attention or optimization to ensure smooth and effortless handling. Despite this, the Kelt 9 M remains a valued vessel, testament to its enduring quality and the thoughtful design by Philippe Briand.