Feeling 720 Information, Review, Specs

The Kirié Feeling 720 entered production in 1982, a period when Kirié Constructions, based in Les Sables d'Olonne, France, was at the forefront of fiberglass boat building. The shipyard had a long history, evolving from traditional wooden boats to embrace polyester (fiberglass) in the late 1960s, which allowed for innovative designs and the launch of their highly acclaimed "Feeling" range in the early 1980s. The 720 was designed by Joubert-Nivelt (also attributed to Michel Joubert), with a clear goal of creating a fast, agile, and easily handled cruiser.

Production of the Feeling 720 continued until at least 1992, and possibly 1994, reflecting its sustained popularity. A key design feature, consistent with Kirié's philosophy for the Feeling line, was its availability in both centerboard (lift keel) and fixed fin keel versions, offering sailors the flexibility to navigate shallow waters or benefit from a deeper draft for enhanced performance. The boat was also known in some markets as the Elite 25.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its modest length overall of just under 25 feet, the Feeling 720 is celebrated for its engaging sailing characteristics. Owners and reviewers describe the boat as "fast and agile," offering good performance to windward and docile handling across various weather conditions. Many liken its responsiveness to that of a "giant dinghy," making it an enjoyable boat to helm. The fractional sloop rig contributes to its ease of handling and allows for efficient sailing. Its design aims to provide both elegant aesthetics and reliable performance at sea, making it well-suited for sailors who wish to explore coastlines.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Feeling 720 is noted for its clever use of space, maximizing comfort and volume within its compact hull. Designers crafted a layout that feels "spacious and bright," often featuring an open-plan saloon that amplifies the sense of interior room. For a vessel measuring around 23 feet at the waterline, it offers a surprising amount of living space.

While specific details on the exact layout can vary, typical arrangements would include a V-berth forward, a compact galley, a main saloon area with settees that can often convert into berths, and potentially a separate head compartment. Some versions were even available with an aft cabin layout, though detailed information on this specific configuration is less common. The general finish quality is often characterized by the use of French Elm veneered ply for interior woodworking, though a few might feature teak on ply. The thoughtful design ensures that the Feeling 720 provides adequate amenities for weekend trips and extended coastal cruising for a small crew.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Kirié Feeling 720 generally appreciate its robust construction and comfortable motion, particularly given its beaminess for its size. Many find it a very capable boat for coastal cruising, even accommodating longer trips with relative ease. The boat's responsive handling and agility are frequently highlighted as strong points, providing an enjoyable and engaging sailing experience.

However, as with any boat of its age, some common points of attention have been noted. Occasional issues, such as seawater spurting from the pulley hole in rough conditions, have been reported. Additionally, the rudder fixing bolts on some models were observed to have small washers from the inside, which might require attention during maintenance. For the centerboard version, owners have discussed the importance of regular use and maintenance of the lifting keel mechanism and its housing to prevent potential issues. The decks are generally considered solid, with one owner noting they had "never heard of a problem with spongy decks."