Feeling 39 Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Feeling 39 falls within a significant era for the Kirié shipyard, a period marked by its leadership in fiberglass construction and the widespread success of its "Feeling" range. Kirié, which had diversified from traditional wooden boats to embrace polyester (fiberglass) in the late 1960s, launched the iconic "Feeling" line in the early 1980s Overview. The Feeling 39, entering production in 1998, followed in the wake of popular models like the Feeling 1090, which had been voted "Boat of the Year" in 1987 Overview.

Designed by Philippe Briand, the Feeling 39 was conceived to offer a "classic yet modern" yacht, bringing contemporary design principles to a proven cruising platform. Briand's philosophy for the Feeling 39 aimed to combine robust offshore capabilities with comfortable living spaces. A key innovation, consistent with the broader Feeling range ethos, was the option of both a standard fin keel and a "DI" (Dériveur Intégral) lifting keel version. This design choice provided immense flexibility, allowing the boat to access shallow anchorages and even dry out in the lifting keel configuration, while the fin keel version offered enhanced upwind performance for deeper waters. Kirié's manufacturing ethos during this time emphasized innovative designs and the practical application of fiberglass to create durable and highly functional cruising yachts.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Feeling 39 exhibits a balanced design that translates into a capable and engaging sailing experience. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 21.7, she demonstrates good light-air performance, suggesting she can move well even in lighter breezes. Her displacement to length ratio of around 205 places her in the lighter-to-moderate displacement category for a cruising yacht of her size, indicating a design that balances performance with comfortable motion rather than being an ultra-light racer or a heavy, traditional cruiser.

While the ballast to displacement ratio of about 26.8% is moderate, the Feeling 39 is generally considered reasonably stable and stiff. Both the fin keel and lifting keel versions were rated Category A Ocean, attesting to their seaworthiness and stability in offshore conditions. Owners and reviewers describe the Feeling 39 as a "high performer" and a "fast cruiser," noting that she "sails very well" and is "able to walk significantly steeper for wind than most of her classmates, she still makes it faster than others". The masthead sloop rig contributes to its simplicity and effective sail-carrying ability. The availability of twin rudders on some lifting keel models further enhances control and responsiveness, particularly in the shallower draft configuration. Overall, the Feeling 39 is praised for combining excellent dynamics under sail with comfortable interior volumes.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Feeling 39 is designed with comfort and extended cruising in mind, often praised for its "great interior layout" and being "very well thought". Descriptions frequently highlight a "light modern interior". While the specific headroom is not provided in the structured data, reviews suggest a spacious environment suitable for longer passages.

Typical interior arrangements often feature three double cabins and two heads, providing comfortable accommodation for six to eight individuals. The main salon typically includes a U-shaped settee and a dining table, which can often convert into an additional berth. The galley is generally well-equipped for offshore cooking, and the navigation station is functional. Finish quality is usually solid, often utilizing a combination of wood trim and fiberglass liners, consistent with French production cruisers of the era. Ample storage is usually integrated throughout the cabins and salon, crucial for extended voyaging. Good ventilation is also a common feature, essential for comfort in various climates.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Feeling 39 generally express high satisfaction with their vessels. Many owners are "delighted" with their boats, praising their sailing capabilities and well-designed interiors. The boat is widely regarded as combining performance, comfort, and sturdiness, making it suitable for both coastal cruising and longer offshore passages. The versatility offered by the optional lifting keel is a frequently highlighted strength, allowing access to shallow waters without significantly compromising performance. Owners appreciate the generous interior layout, which provides ample space for living aboard or extended trips. The ability of both keel versions to achieve an Ocean Category A rating also instills confidence in the boat's seaworthiness and structural integrity. While specific recurring weaknesses or common problems are not widely detailed in available owner reviews, the overall sentiment points to a robust and capable cruising yacht that stands up well to the demands of sailing.