Baleinier 600 Information, Review, Specs

The Baleinier 600 emerged during a period when Kirié, founded by Auguste Kirié, was at the forefront of fiberglass boat construction in France. Having transitioned from traditional wooden boats to pioneering polyester (fiberglass) use in the late 1960s, Kirié had a reputation for building robust and practical vessels. The Baleinier 600, with its fiberglass solid hull and deck, exemplifies this manufacturing ethos of durable construction. Designed by Joubert-Nivelt, a firm well-regarded for its seasoned naval architects, the Baleinier 600 reflects a design philosophy likely focused on creating a dependable and accessible sailboat for its size. There is no information to suggest significant variations or different marks during its production run from 1977 to 1983.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Kirié Baleinier 600, with its length overall of 19.68 feet and a waterline length of 16.24 feet, is a small sailboat designed for ease of handling and reliable performance. It features a fin keel and a masthead sloop rig, contributing to its straightforward sailing characteristics. The hull form is a round bilge, which typically contributes to a smooth motion through the water. Anecdotal reports from owners generally describe the Baleinier 600 as seaworthy and sturdy for its size, suggesting a reassuring presence on the water. It boasts a theoretical hull speed of 5.4 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size, the Kirié Baleinier 600 is fundamentally a cabin boat designed for basic overnighting or day cruising. While detailed interior specifications are limited in available data, vessels of this size typically feature a forward V-berth for sleeping and potentially two small settees in a main cabin area, offering modest living space. Interior finishes would likely be practical and durable, consistent with Kirié's focus on robust construction in the era of its production, prioritizing functionality over elaborate comforts.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners often praise the Kirié Baleinier 600 for its solid construction and seaworthiness, making it a dependable choice for those seeking a small, capable sailboat. Like many boats of its vintage, new owners sometimes note the need for attention to older fittings or systems, referring to them as "certain fragilities" that require maintenance typical of a well-used vessel from its era. Despite these common maintenance considerations, the Baleinier 600 maintains a reputation as a sturdy and marine-capable boat among enthusiasts and is often compared favorably to other small cruisers of its time.