Feeling 546 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Feeling 546 in 1991 marked Kirié's continued commitment to its successful "Feeling" range, which had already garnered acclaim for its innovative approach to cruising yachts. Kirié, a shipyard with roots tracing back to 1912, had transitioned from traditional wooden boats to become a pioneer in fiberglass construction by the late 1960s, a move that allowed for greater design flexibility and the creation of robust, practical vessels. The "Feeling" series, introduced in the early 1980s, was particularly notable for offering options like lift keels on smaller models, though the 546, as a larger vessel, features a fixed fin keel for enhanced performance and stability.

The involvement of Ron Holland, a designer known for his high-performance racing and cruising yachts, signals a clear intent for the Feeling 546 to be more than just a comfortable cruiser. Holland's philosophy often blends speed with seaworthiness, suggesting that the 546 was designed to be both fast and reliable over long distances. The construction, utilizing solid fiberglass for both the hull and deck, reflects Kirié's reputation for enduring quality and robust build standards during this era.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Feeling 546 is characterized as a moderate-weight sailboat that delivers high performance, offering a "generous sail plan" that ensures "excellent light-air performance." With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 20.9, she possesses ample canvas to drive her in lighter winds, positioning her as a responsive vessel that won't feel sluggish when the breeze is light. This ratio places her firmly in the performance cruiser category, suggesting that while she offers comfort, she is also designed to move efficiently through the water.

Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of about 0.32 indicates a reasonable degree of stiffness and stability, contributing to a comfortable motion in a seaway. While not at the extreme end of ballast ratios found in dedicated racers, it suggests a boat that can stand up to her rig and maintain an even keel under sail. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 222.8 places her in the medium-heavy displacement category for cruising yachts. This indicates a boat with good volume and load-carrying capacity, providing a steady ride in choppy conditions rather than a lighter, more skittish motion. Her fin keel, with a maximum draft of 6.58 feet, further contributes to her upwind performance and directional stability.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Feeling 546 is designed for extended cruising comfort, described as "light and well ventilated" with "cozy interiors." The extensive beam of 17.08 feet contributes significantly to generous internal volume, allowing for spacious living areas. Owners could typically choose between 3- or 4-cabin layouts, providing flexibility for families, charter operations, or those desiring dedicated workspaces.

While specific details for the 546's interior require more dedicated searching, the general "Feeling" interior finish was considered "a bit smarter" than some contemporaries, suggesting good quality materials and thoughtful design. Given its substantial length, the layout would likely feature a large salon, a well-appointed galley, and multiple heads. Similar to other large Feeling models, it is reasonable to expect an owner's stateroom forward, often with a centerline double berth, private head with a shower, and ample storage, including hanging lockers. Aft cabins would offer comfortable guest accommodations.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Feeling yachts generally appreciate their balanced design, comfortable interiors, and distinctive "French sailing flair." While specific owner reviews for the Feeling 546 are somewhat difficult to find, the overarching sentiment regarding Kirié-built "Feeling" models points to "enduring quality and sailing performance." This suggests that the 546 is likely a well-regarded vessel, offering a solid cruising platform that combines good sailing characteristics with spacious and comfortable accommodations, appealing to those seeking a robust and enjoyable yacht for longer voyages.