Elite 346 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Elite 346 reflects Philippe Briand’s background in racing design, exhibiting a surprisingly nimble temperament for a mid-sized cruiser. With a displacement of approximately 4,500 kg and a generous sail area, the boat remains responsive in light airs, a trait often noted in contemporary reviews from French publications such as Bateaux and Voiles et Voiliers. The hull features a relatively flat section aft, which provides significant initial stability and helps the boat track well when heeled.

The handling characteristics differ notably between the two keel configurations. The fin keel version (drawing roughly 1.75m) offers superior pointing ability and a stiffer feel in a blow. Conversely, the lifting keel (DI) version utilizes a heavy internal ballast plate and a pivoting centerboard. While the DI version sacrifices a small degree of upwind efficiency compared to the fin keel, its ability to reduce draft to just 0.70m provides a tactical advantage in tidal waters. Owners frequently report that the boat feels balanced on the helm, though like many designs of this era with high-volume sterns, it requires timely reefing of the mainsail to prevent excessive weather helm as the breeze nears 20 knots.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Elite 346 was revolutionary for the 1980s, primarily due to Kirié’s decision to move away from the dark, cavernous aesthetics typical of the era. Utilizing light-toned woods—frequently ash or light oak—and incorporating large coachroof windows, the salon feels significantly larger than its 34-foot length suggests. The layout was typically offered in two- or three-cabin configurations.

In the two-cabin version, the Elite 346 boasts an impressively large aft cabin and a dedicated navigation station. The three-cabin variant, while popular for charter and larger families, necessitates a tighter galley and smaller aft sleeping quarters. A notable design element in the lifting keel version is the integration of the keel trunk; Kirié designers cleverly incorporated this into the salon table structure, minimizing its intrusion into the living space. Headroom is generous throughout, consistently exceeding 1.85m in the main salon, which remains a high mark for a vessel of this vintage.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an Elite 346 should prioritize several technical areas unique to Kirié’s construction methods of the 1980s:

• Lifting Keel Mechanism: On "Dériveur Intégral" models, the pivot pin and the lifting cable are critical wear items. If the board has not been dropped and inspected in the last five years, the mechanism should be serviced to prevent seizing.
• Grid Liner Bonding: Kirié utilized a fiberglass internal grid (matrix) bonded to the hull to provide structural rigidity. Buyers should inspect the bilge areas for any signs of "star crazing" or separation between the grid and the hull, which can occur after a significant grounding.
• Window Seals: The large, iconic coachroof windows are prone to leaking as the original bedding compounds dry out over decades. Persistent leaks can damage the light-colored interior woodwork, which is difficult to match during repairs.
• Osmosis: While Kirié used high-quality resins, boats from this era are statistically prone to osmotic blistering. A moisture meter reading and a hull percussion test are essential during a pre-purchase survey.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Elite 346 are supported by a dedicated European community, primarily through the Club Feeling, an association that provides technical documentation and historical archives for the entire Kirié/Feeling range. Because the Elite 346 and Feeling 346 are structurally identical, resources for one are universally applicable to the other. Technical wikis maintained by French sailing enthusiasts often contain original plumbing and electrical schematics for these models.

The Verdict

The Elite 346 remains a standout choice for sailors seeking a versatile, bright, and well-performing cruiser that punches above its weight in terms of interior volume.

Pros:

• Bright Interior: The use of light woods and large windows creates a modern, airy atmosphere.
• Shallow Draft Versatility: The DI version is one of the most successful lifting-keel designs in its class.
• Solid Pedigree: A Philippe Briand design ensures respectable performance across all points of sail.

Cons:

• Complex Maintenance: The lifting keel adds a layer of mechanical complexity compared to fixed-keel rivals.
• Aging Plastics: Original Goiot hatches and plastic deck fittings may require replacement to ensure watertight integrity.
• Light-Air Sensitivity: The DI version requires the board to be fully down for any meaningful upwind progress.