Feeling 346 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Feeling 346 was introduced in 1987 and remained in production until 1997, spanning a decade during which Kirié was at the forefront of fiberglass boat construction. The design of the Feeling 346 is attributed to the collaboration of Gilles Vaton and Eric Cadro. While detailed specific design philosophies for the 346 are not widely documented, Vaton's designs from this era, often paired with Cadro's interior work, were known for sometimes unconventional layouts below decks. Kirié, as a builder, was celebrated for embracing polyester (fiberglass) in the late 1960s, a technological leap that allowed for more innovative and flexible designs than traditional wooden construction. The "Feeling" range, to which the 346 belongs, was particularly noted for offering both lift keel and fin keel versions, providing sailors with versatility for diverse cruising grounds Kirié Builder Article. The 346 was indeed available with a number of keel options, including a standard fin keel, a shoal draft, and a drop keel version, further emphasizing this adaptability. Notably, a "deck salon" (DI) model of the 346 was also introduced in 1987, suggesting an early embrace of enhanced interior volume and light.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Feeling 346, with a calculated Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 18.0, suggests a boat with good light-air performance that is responsive without being overly twitchy. This ratio positions it well for diverse conditions, offering respectable speed when the wind is light and manageable power as conditions strengthen. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio, around 0.35, indicates a moderate level of stiffness and stability, suggesting it can stand up to a reasonable amount of wind and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at about 172, categorizes the Feeling 346 as a relatively light and performance-oriented cruiser for its length. Owners have generally praised the Feeling 346 for its enjoyable sailing characteristics, often highlighting a comfortable compromise between performance, comfort, and build quality. The deck layout is practical, featuring wide side decks, a spacious cockpit, and self-tailing winches, making for easy handling.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Feeling 346 is often characterized by a layout that departs from the conventional, aiming to maximize living space and natural light. While specific headroom figures are not readily available in the provided data, the design emphasizes treating each area as a distinct living center rather than endless longitudinal divisions. Typical layouts for the 346 include a double berth in the forepeak, a saloon, and a galley. Some versions offered three or even four-cabin layouts, particularly in its role within the charter trade in the Euro-Mediterranean region. The interior design often features light wood and dark blue upholstery, contributing to a cozy and nautical ambiance. The deck salon (DI) versions further enhanced the interior with increased light and volume, and in some lift-keel models, the keel mechanism was ingeniously integrated into a box beneath the saloon table. Owners appreciate the generous space below decks.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Feeling 346 frequently commend its solid construction and comfortable motion, describing it as a boat that offers a good balance of comfort and performance for cruising. The versatility offered by its various keel options, particularly the lift keel, is a significant advantage for those who desire to explore shallow waters and access unique anchorages. The spacious interior, especially noted by some owners, is another recurring positive. However, some owners have noted that the cockpit can be "tight" for its size, which might be a consideration for those prioritizing large outdoor living spaces. While overall build quality is generally well-regarded, some forum discussions mention potential issues such as moisture in the deck core or creaking noises between the inner molding and bulkheads, particularly in older models, which is not uncommon for boats of its age. Despite these potential age-related maintenance items, the Feeling 346 continues to be appreciated on the used boat market for its enduring qualities Kirié Builder Article.