Feeling 1040 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Feeling 1040 reflects Gilles Vaton’s racing pedigree, offering a more spirited experience than many of its contemporary French rivals. The hull features a relatively narrow beam compared to modern wide-stern designs, which aids in its ability to track well and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway. According to technical archives maintained by the Association des Propriétaires de Feeling, the boat was typically offered with a deep fin keel (approximately 1.80m) or a lead-ballasted lifting keel version, the latter being a signature Kirié innovation that allowed for shallow-water exploration without sacrificing windward performance.

With a displacement of approximately 4,800kg and a generous sail plan, the 1040 is notably light on the helm. It excels in light to moderate winds, where its high sail area-to-displacement ratio allows it to ghost along while heavier cruisers remain becalmed. In heavier air, the boat is stiff enough to hold its canvas, though owners often note that early reefing is rewarded with better balance and less weather helm. The rudder is semi-balanced and mounted on a partial skeg, providing a blend of responsiveness and protection that is ideal for coastal cruising.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Feeling 1040 was considered revolutionary upon its debut, primarily due to Kirié’s decision to move away from dark, traditional teak in favor of light ash and elm woods. This choice, combined with large deck saloon windows and overhead hatches, created an airy, voluminous atmosphere that was rare in the mid-1980s. The layout typically features a classic two-cabin configuration: a large V-berth forward and a generous aft cabin tucked under the cockpit sole on the port side.

One of the standout features of the 1040’s interior is the L-shaped galley situated to port, which provides excellent bracing for the cook while underway. Opposite the galley, the navigation station is unusually large for a 34-foot boat, reflecting an era when paper charts and dedicated workspace were paramount. While the 1040 was the primary production model, Kirié also produced the Feeling 346 on a very similar hull mold, which offered slight variations in the transom design and interior cabinetry. The 1040 is often compared to its successor, the Philippe Harlé-designed Feeling 1090; while the 1090 is slightly larger and more refined, the 1040 is frequently cited by purists for having a more "Vaton-esque" performance edge.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Feeling 1040 should focus their inspection on several specific areas common to Kirié builds of this vintage. While the hulls are generally robust, the following technical points require scrutiny:

• Keel Attachment and Lifting Mechanism: On versions equipped with the lifting keel (Deriveur Lesté), the pivot pin and the hydraulic or manual lifting tackle must be inspected for corrosion and wear. The cast iron grounding plate can also suffer from oxidation if the epoxy coating has been breached.
• Rudder Bearings: The semi-balanced rudder can develop play in the upper and lower bearings over time. Owners frequently report that replacing the original nylon bushings with modern self-aligning bearings significantly improves helm feel.
• Interior Linings: Like many French boats from the 80s, the "coachroof" headliners were often foam-backed vinyl. Over decades, this foam degrades, causing the fabric to sag. Buyers should look for signs of "regluing" or professional replacement.
• Deck Core Integrity: While the hull is solid laminate, the deck is balsa-cored. Hardware that was not properly bedded over the years can allow moisture into the core, leading to soft spots, particularly around the mast step and the chainplates.
• Osmosis: While not more prone than other builders of the era, the 1040 was built before the widespread use of vinylester resins. A moisture meter check of the hull is essential to identify any historical osmotic blistering.

Community & Resources

The Feeling 1040 benefits from a dedicated European following, particularly in France and the United Kingdom. The most prominent resource is the Association des Propriétaires de Feeling, which hosts a comprehensive technical wiki including original brochures, wiring diagrams, and owner-submitted modifications. This group is an essential touchpoint for sourcing specific parts or seeking advice on the unique lifting keel systems utilized by the Kirié yard.

The Verdict

The Feeling 1040 is an elegant, performance-oriented cruiser that manages to feel significantly younger than its actual age thanks to its bright interior and sleek Vaton lines. It is an ideal choice for the sailor who wants a boat that is "fast but fair," capable of weekend racing while providing a comfortable home for coastal voyaging.

Pros:

• Bright Interior: The use of light ash wood and ample windows creates a modern, spacious feel.
• Sailing Performance: Excellent light-air capabilities and a balanced helm.
• Versatility: The lifting keel version offers access to shallow anchorages denied to many performance cruisers.
• Aesthetic Appeal: One of the most attractive designs from the mid-80s French production era.

Cons:

• Age-Related Maintenance: Potential issues with sagging headliners and balsa-core moisture require attention.
• Lifting Keel Complexity: The moving parts of the keel system require more maintenance than a standard fin keel.
• Aft Cabin Ventilation: Like many boats of this era with an aft cabin under the cockpit, airflow can be restricted without auxiliary fans.