Elite 286 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Elite 286's creation in the mid-1980s coincided with a flourishing period for Kirié, a shipyard that had pioneered fiberglass construction in France since the late 1960s. Having evolved from traditional wooden boat building, Kirié had established itself as a producer of robust and practical vessels, with the launch of their iconic "Feeling" range defining their modern design philosophy Overview. The Elite 286, essentially the same model as the Feeling 286, embodies this ethos, showcasing Kirié's commitment to innovation and versatility.

Gilles Vaton, known for designing several successful yachts for other builders, conceived the Elite 286 as a fast family cruiser/racer. His design aimed to blend the flair of French yacht design with practical sailing performance, a hallmark of Kirié's offerings during this era. During its production run, the Elite 286 was available in both a standard fin keel configuration and a shallower shoal draft or wing keel version, offering sailors flexibility for diverse cruising grounds, from deep offshore waters to shallower anchorages.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Kirié Elite 286 exhibits characteristics of a lively and capable performer for its size. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 17.4, the boat demonstrates decent performance, particularly in lighter air, allowing it to maintain momentum even in softer breezes. Its ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of about 0.31 suggests a moderate level of stiffness, providing a comfortable motion and reasonable stability in various sea states, though it might heel more readily than heavier-ballasted cruisers. Furthermore, a displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 191.7 indicates a relatively light displacement for its waterline length, aligning with its "cruiser-racer" designation and contributing to its agile handling.

Anecdotal reports suggest that the Elite 286's hull design and sail plan facilitate easy single or short-handed sailing, making it an accessible boat for a wide range of sailors. Owners generally describe it as a sleek and capable cruiser that handles well on the water.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite being a sub-30-foot vessel, the Kirié Elite 286 is noted for its surprisingly roomy and well-designed interior, aiming to maximize comfort and functionality. The layout typically features a comfortable salon with ample seating, often convertible, making for a welcoming living space. A functional galley provides essential amenities for meal preparation, while cozy sleeping quarters are arranged for overnight stays.

Commonly, the interior includes two cabins: a V-berth forward and an aft cabin, providing private sleeping areas. Some specific models expanded the aft cabin space, enhancing comfort for crew or guests. The finishes are generally of high quality, with attention paid to the aesthetic and tactile experience. The interior is typically described as light and well-ventilated, contributing to a pleasant living environment below decks. While the layout is generally praised for its efficiency, some owners have noted that locker storage could be improved. Modern updates by some owners have included fitting LED interior lighting and renewing wall coverings, highlighting the potential for refreshing the boat's living spaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Kirié Elite 286 (or Feeling 286) often praise its solid construction and its ability to deliver enjoyable sailing performance. The boat's ease of handling, even for single or short-handed crews, is frequently cited as a significant strength. Many appreciate the spaciousness of the interior for a boat of its size, finding it comfortable for extended cruises or family outings.

However, some owners have pointed out areas for improvement, such as the limited locker storage, which might necessitate creative solutions for longer trips. Despite minor critiques, the Elite 286 maintains a strong following among those who value its blend of Kirié's robust build quality, Gilles Vaton's performance-oriented design, and comfortable accommodations, solidifying its place as a respected option in the used sailboat market.