Elite 364 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Elite 364 began its production run in 1988, entering the market during a pivotal era for the Kirié shipyard. Kirié, with roots tracing back to 1912, had by the late 1960s, become one of the pioneers in fiberglass boat construction in France. This technological leap allowed them to develop innovative models, culminating in the highly successful "Feeling" range in the early 1980s. The Feeling line, known for its adaptability with both lift and fin keel options, set a new standard for comfortable and capable cruising yachts. The Elite 364 / Feeling 1040, designed by the respected team of Philippe Harlé and Alain Mortain, continued this tradition, aiming to offer a fast and spacious modern cruiser. The design philosophy behind the Elite 364 emphasized a balance between competitive sailing performance and a generous interior layout, making it a compelling choice for sailors who desired both speed and liveability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Elite 364's design incorporates characteristics that contribute to its spirited sailing performance and stable handling. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 18.4, the Elite 364 is generally considered a good performer, particularly adept in light to medium winds. This ratio suggests that the boat has ample sail power relative to its displacement, allowing it to accelerate well and maintain speed effectively.

The Ballast to Displacement ratio, at approximately 41.1%, is indicative of a stiff and stable boat. A higher ballast ratio means the boat can stand up to more wind, reducing heeling and providing a more comfortable motion in a seaway. This contributes to the vessel's reputation for being very stable, though some analyses suggest a lower righting capability if capsized, emphasizing its role as a solid cruising platform rather than an extreme offshore racer. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of about 200 categorizes the Elite 364 as a light to moderate displacement vessel for its length. This balanced approach in design contributes to its agility and performance without sacrificing the robust feel of a capable cruiser. Owners have consistently praised the Elite 364 / Feeling 1040 for its excellent sailing characteristics and responsive handling, noting its ability to perform well in various conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Elite 364 / Feeling 1040 is known for its spacious and comfortable layout, a hallmark of the Kirié "Feeling" range. While specific headroom details are not always consistently listed, the design prioritizes livable space, featuring a typical arrangement for a boat of its size, often including three separate cabins and seven berths.

Common configurations feature a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that can often convert into additional berths, and a well-appointed galley. Aft, there are typically two quarter cabins, offering privacy and additional sleeping arrangements. Many Feeling 1040s, and by extension the Elite 364, feature light ash joinery, contributing to a bright and airy feel below deck. The interior design aims to provide comfortable accommodations for a family or a group of cruisers, with ample storage integrated throughout. The focus on a comfortable aft-cabin layout and a well-equipped galley ensures that the Elite 364 is well-suited for extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Elite 364 / Feeling 1040 frequently highlight its robust construction and impressive sailing performance as key strengths. Many praise its ability to handle nicely and sail very well, particularly in light to medium air, outperforming expectations. The boat is often described as a "fast racer with a very comfortable interior," offering the best of both worlds for those who enjoy both spirited sailing and relaxed cruising. The quality of construction is also a frequently mentioned positive, aligning with Kirié's reputation for building durable vessels.

In terms of common maintenance or areas of consideration, some owners may have replaced the original Volvo Penta engine over the years, as seen in examples where a 30 hp Beta engine replaced an 18 hp Volvo. However, the overall sentiment points to a highly regarded vessel that, with proper maintenance, continues to offer a rewarding sailing experience. Owners often form active communities, indicative of the boat's enduring appeal.