Feeling 1040 Information, Review, Specs

The Kirié Feeling 1040 entered production in 1986. Designed by the Harle/Mortain design office, this model was part of Kirié's celebrated "Feeling" range, which aimed to provide habitable cruising yachts with innovative designs. Kirié, founded in 1927, embraced polyester (fiberglass) construction in the late 1960s, a technological leap that allowed for the creation of versatile and robust vessels. The "Feeling" series, launched in the early 1980s, became emblematic of Kirié's design philosophy, blending performance with comfort. Overview While the builder article highlights the availability of both lift keel and fin keel versions for the "Feeling" range, the 1040 was specifically built with a fin keel and spade rudder, offering good maneuverability. The model was also marketed as the Elite 364 in the American market. Production of the 1040 ran until approximately 1989.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Feeling 1040 is characterized by a design that prioritizes both performance and stability. Her Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 18.36 suggests good performance in lighter winds, allowing her to move well in varied conditions. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of nearly 44% (43.87%) indicates a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to a significant amount of wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, with a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of about 197.7, the Feeling 1040 falls into a lighter, more performance-oriented category compared to heavier, traditional cruisers. Owners and reviews frequently describe the Feeling 1040 as having a responsive helm and a balanced sail plan, contributing to a confident sailing experience across a range of conditions. Her fin keel design is known for providing splendid maneuverability, though with slightly less directional stability than a long keel.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Feeling 1040 is notable for its spaciousness and intelligent layout, often featuring light ash joinery which was a contemporary design trend. The designer aimed for a significantly more voluminous hull compared to many contemporary sailboats, resulting in a roomy interior that is more spacious than 76% of similar designs. The typical layout includes three separate cabins, providing accommodation for up to seven berths. This usually comprises a V-berth forward cabin, and two aft cabins, each with two berths. The saloon area also offers seating that can transform into additional berths. Key amenities such as a galley and a head are integral to the design, catering to extended cruising. The intelligent use of space, including a predictably cavernous starboard cave locker, reflects a design philosophy focused on comfort and practicality for cruisers.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Feeling 1040 often commend its solid construction and seaworthy characteristics. Many appreciate the boat's comfortable motion in a seaway and its overall reliability, with some owners having cherished their vessels for decades. The generous interior space and the thoughtful layout are frequently highlighted as strengths, making the boat suitable for family cruising. The Feeling 1040 is often described as a fast and spacious cruiser that, despite being a product of the 1980s, maintains a modern aesthetic and sailing appeal. An active owner's club for Feeling 1090/1040 models provides a community for sharing insights and support, suggesting a dedicated owner base. While specific recurring weaknesses are not broadly publicized, the enduring quality and innovative design of these Kirié-built yachts ensure their continued presence and appreciation in the used boat market. Overview