Elite 25 Information, Review, Specs

With 260 units built between 1982 and 1992, the Elite 25 offered a robust and pleasant sailing experience in a compact package.

History and Design

The Elite 25's production commenced in 1982, placing it within a pivotal period for the Kirié shipyard. Having transitioned from traditional wooden boats to pioneering fiberglass construction in the late 1960s, Kirié was at the forefront of adopting new materials and innovative designs. This era saw the company, founded by Auguste Kirié, focus on creating robust and practical vessels that blended performance with comfort. The early 1980s also heralded the launch of Kirié's highly successful "Feeling" range, known for its groundbreaking designs.

Michel Joubert's design for the Elite 25 aimed to create a versatile cruiser. The boat was offered with two distinct keel configurations: a classical fin keel, providing a low center of gravity for enhanced stability, and a keel/centerboard option. The latter, featuring a pivoting lifting keel, offered unparalleled flexibility, allowing the Elite 25 to navigate shallow coastal waters, explore inland waterways, and even facilitate beaching, thus broadening its cruising grounds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its relatively compact size, the Kirié Elite 25 is recognized for its capable sailing performance and solid handling characteristics. Described as a moderate-weight sailboat, it delivers a reasonably good performance for a cruiser of its class. With a length overall of just under 25 feet and a nearly 20.5-foot waterline, the Elite 25 has a hull speed of approximately 6.07 knots, suggesting a spirited yet manageable motion through the water. Owners and reviewers often praise its inherent stability and stiffness, noting that the boat stands up well to wind and provides a secure feeling at sea. Many report that these vessels sail very well and handle nicely, making them a popular choice for all-around family cruising and club racing. The transom-hung rudder further contributes to responsive steering and control.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Kirié Elite 25, often referred to as the Feeling 720, is notably spacious and thoughtfully arranged for a boat of its size. Kirié, particularly with its Feeling range, championed open-plan saloons to enhance the sense of interior volume, and the Elite 25 benefits from this design philosophy. It features a clever accommodation layout that maximizes comfort and utility within its approximately 23-foot length. Reports indicate a bright interior, with some versions even hinting at a deck saloon configuration, further contributing to the airy feel. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design prioritized creating an expansive and comfortable living space, often incorporating traditional wood trim to provide warmth.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Kirié Elite 25 often highlight its solid construction and comfortable motion as significant strengths. Many appreciate its suitability as a manageable cruiser, with some returning to sailing with an Elite 25 after long hiatuses, suggesting its forgiving nature and ease of handling. The versatility offered by the different keel options, particularly the keel/centerboard version, is also frequently praised, allowing access to a wider range of anchorages.

However, like many boats of its vintage, the Elite 25 can present some common maintenance considerations. A frequently noted issue among owners of Kirié Elite models from the same era is the tendency for original deck hardware to wear and develop leaks, often requiring re-bedding or replacement. This is a typical consideration for older fiberglass boats, and prospective owners should factor in potential refurbishment of these components. Overall, the Elite 25 maintains a positive reputation as a robust, well-sailing, and comfortable compact cruiser.