Fifty 40 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Kirie Fifty 40 was in production from 1979 to 1986. It was designed by Michel Joubert, a French naval architect known for his successful racing sailboat designs. For the Fifty 40, Joubert's philosophy likely focused on creating a vessel that offered a "dual personality," combining the pleasures of sailing with strong motor capabilities. This aligns with Kirié's broader strategy for their "Fifty" range, which became synonymous with motorsailers that delivered both adequate sailing performance and generous, comfortable interiors. Kirié, having expanded in the late 1960s to become an early adopter of polyester (fiberglass) in boat building, applied its expertise in durable fiberglass solid hull and deck construction to the Fifty 40. While specific variations like MkI or MkII were not prominently documented for this model in the available information, the design remained consistent throughout its production run, emphasizing its role as a stable and spacious cruiser.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a motorsailer, the Kirie Fifty 40's design aims for a balanced performance under both sail and power. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 17.05, she is not a high-performance racer but is generally expected to perform adequately in light airs and handle well in moderate conditions. Her Ballast to Displacement Ratio (Ballast/Disp) of around 31.1% suggests a moderate level of stiffness, characteristic of vessels prioritizing interior volume and comfort over extreme upwind prowess. The Displacement to Length Ratio (Disp/LWL) of approximately 222.5 places her firmly in the category of a moderate to heavy cruiser, indicating a robust build and a motion in a seaway that owners would find comfortable and stable. The vessel is primarily rigged as a sloop, but some examples were also configured as ketch rigs, providing additional flexibility for sail handling and balance, particularly on longer passages. Her fin keel and skeg-hung rudder contribute to a predictable and stable helm, suitable for extensive cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Kirie Fifty 40 is consistently described as "vast and comfortable". Designed to offer substantial living space, the layout typically features two private cabins and two bathrooms with toilets, accommodating up to eight berths. The main salon is generous, providing ample room for dining and relaxation. The galley is well-equipped for extended cruising, including a refrigerator/freezer, a gas stove, and an oven, complemented by a sink. While specific details on the finish materials are not widely available, Kirié's reputation suggests a practical and durable fit-out, likely featuring a combination of wood trim and fiberglass surfaces. Owners have noted the presence of conveniences such as a bow thruster, electric bilge pump, and manual bilge pump, enhancing ease of use and safety.

Owner's Perspectives

While extensive aggregated owner reviews highlighting common strengths and weaknesses are not readily available, the Kirie Fifty 40 is generally regarded as a genuine cruising sailboat, appreciated for its comfort and livability. Its robust construction and the spacious, comfortable interior are frequently implied as key attributes. Some listings mention engine replacements, with examples like a 2003 Volvo Penta D2 diesel engine replacing the original Perkins unit, suggesting that like many vessels of its era, the original auxiliary power plant may have been a common upgrade point over time. Overall, the Fifty 40 is seen as a durable and capable motorsailer, suitable for those seeking a liveable vessel for coastal or offshore cruising.