Elite 29 Information, Review, Specs

The Kirié Elite 29 began production in 1983, a period when the Kirié shipyard, having pioneered fiberglass construction, was at the forefront of introducing innovative designs to the marine industry. The builder had already diversified from traditional wooden boats to speedboats and later launched its iconic "Feeling" range, known for blending performance with comfort and offering versatile keel options. It is widely believed that the Elite 29 shares its hull design with the popular Kirié Feeling 850 and Elite 30 models, a testament to a successful hull form from Philippe Briand. Briand's design philosophy for the Elite 29 aimed to strike a balance between lively performance and comfortable cruising, evident in her generous sail plan. Throughout its production run, the Elite 29 saw variations, including different keel configurations, such as a centerboard version, and alternative rig options like a short rig in addition to the standard tall rig.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Elite 29's design ratios suggest a boat that offers a lively and responsive sailing experience. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 18.57, she is well-powered, indicating good performance in lighter winds and the ability to accelerate readily. Her Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of around 183.5 positions her in the lighter, more performance-oriented cruiser category, suggesting a relatively easily driven hull capable of respectable speeds. The Ballast to Displacement Ratio (B/D) of 0.374 points to a moderate level of stability, allowing her to stand up to a decent breeze without excessive heeling, although she may require reefing sooner than heavier, stiffer cruisers in stronger conditions. The Elite 29 is generally described as a light-displacement cruiser-racer sailboat, offering a good balance of performance and comfort. She features a fin keel and a spade rudder, a combination typically associated with good maneuverability and responsiveness.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior specifications for the Elite 29 are not extensively documented in public records, her overall length of just over 29 feet and beam of 10.83 feet suggest a practical and comfortable layout for a yacht of her size and era. Typical of compact cruisers from the early 1980s, the interior likely features a V-berth forward, a compact head, a salon area with settees that may convert into berths, a galley, and possibly a quarter berth. The boat is equipped with a fresh water capacity of 32 gallons (121 liters). Given Kirié's reputation for practical vessels, the interior would have prioritized functional use of space, likely featuring a combination of fiberglass liners and wood trim, offering a robust and easy-to-maintain finish.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Kirié Elite 29 often appreciate its solid construction and sailing characteristics. Common discussions among owners frequently revolve around maintenance aspects of the iron keel, a typical feature for Kirie-built Elite models. Owners note the need to clean and seal rust spots on the keel using products like Interprotec. The durable fiberglass hull and deck construction, a hallmark of Kirié's extensive use of polyester, contributes to the Elite 29's longevity and enduring appeal on the used boat market.