Feeling 32 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Feeling 32 in 1999 placed it within a pivotal period for its original builder, Kirié, a French shipyard with roots dating back to 1912. Kirié had long been a pioneer in fiberglass construction, embracing polyester as a primary material in the late 1960s and utilizing it to develop innovative designs. The "Feeling" range, launched in the early 1980s, epitomized Kirié's commitment to combining performance with comfort, often featuring groundbreaking options like the lift keel for enhanced versatility.

Shortly after the Feeling 32's introduction, Kirié was acquired by Alliaura Marine in 2000, which continued the production and development of the popular Feeling yachts. The design team of Joubert-Nivelt, known for their pragmatic and seaworthy creations, imbued the Feeling 32 with a design philosophy focused on creating a balanced cruiser. A notable design feature, aligning with the broader "Feeling" ethos, was the availability of both a standard fin keel and a shoal-draft lifting keel option. This innovative choice significantly broadened the boat's appeal, allowing owners to access shallower anchorages and coastal areas that would be inaccessible to fixed-keel vessels. Production of the Feeling 32 continued for an extended period, with models built as late as 2017.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Feeling 32 is designed to offer a balanced and capable sailing experience, rooted in its carefully considered hull shape and rigging. With a reported sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 20.32, the Feeling 32 possesses ample power for its size, suggesting good performance in varying wind conditions and a lively feel once underway. This ratio indicates that the boat is well-powered and should be responsive, particularly as the breeze builds.

Despite its relatively high sail area, the boat's displacement to length ratio of around 388.9 points to a heavier displacement design, positioning it as a robust and traditional cruiser rather than an ultralight racer. This heavier displacement typically translates to a more comfortable motion in a seaway, greater stability, and a better ability to carry cruising gear without significantly impacting performance. The ballast to displacement ratio of approximately 0.311 indicates solid, though not extreme, initial stability, contributing to a secure and predictable sailing experience without being overly tender. Collectively, these ratios suggest a sailboat that will handle chop and moderate to heavy seas with composure, prioritizing comfort and safety for coastal and possibly offshore cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Feeling 32 is designed for comfortable cruising, typically featuring a practical and well-arranged layout within its approximately 32-foot length. The boat generally offers two private cabins and can accommodate up to six berths, alongside a dedicated head compartment. With a generous maximum headroom of approximately 6.07 feet (1.85 meters), the main salon feels open and inviting, a significant advantage for a boat of this size.

While specific details may vary between individual boats, a typical layout includes a V-berth forward, a central salon with opposing settees that often convert to additional berths, and a functional galley. Aft, there is usually a private cabin, providing comfortable sleeping quarters. The use of materials often features warm wood trim contrasting with fiberglass liners, creating a classic and durable interior aesthetic common in French cruisers of its era. Storage solutions are generally well-integrated, and careful attention is typically given to ventilation to ensure comfort in warmer climates.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Feeling 32 frequently praise its solid construction and comfortable motion, particularly in a seaway. The versatility offered by the optional lifting keel is a recurring highlight, providing access to shallow anchorages and making the boat suitable for a broader range of cruising grounds. The boat's robust build quality and thoughtful design contribute to its enduring popularity on the used boat market. Common praise often centers on its capability as a family cruiser, offering a good balance of sailing performance and liveaboard comfort. While specific common weaknesses are not broadly reported, as with any boat of its vintage, potential buyers typically consider the condition of original systems and deck fittings. Owners generally appreciate the Feeling 32 for its reliable performance and its ability to deliver enjoyable and secure cruising experiences.