Feeling 29 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Feeling 29 was offered in two primary configurations: a fixed fin keel (GTE) with a draft of 1.45 meters and the more popular integral centerboard (DI) version. According to technical assessments by Voiles et Voiliers, the DI version utilizes a heavy cast-iron ballast plate bolted to the hull's exterior, which provides the necessary righting moment while protecting the fiberglass when grounding.

On the water, the Feeling 29 is characterized by its wide beam carried well aft, a design choice that provides significant initial stability and a spacious cockpit. In the DI configuration, the boat is equipped with twin rudders. This setup ensures that at least one blade remains deeply immersed when the boat heals, providing exceptional grip and preventing the "rounding up" common in wide-bottomed single-rudder boats. While the fixed keel version is marginally faster upwind due to reduced drag and a more efficient foil shape, the DI version is remarkably capable in a breeze. Handling is light and responsive, though owners often note that the boat performs best when kept relatively flat; excessive heel in the DI version can lead to increased leeway if the centerboard is not fully deployed and the sails are not trimmed to reduce pressure.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Feeling 29 was a departure from the dark, cramped cabins typical of 28-footers of the previous decade. Kirié utilized light-colored wood—often ash or light elm—and incorporated numerous portlights to maximize natural light. The layout features a traditional V-berth forward, which remains open to the saloon to enhance the sense of space, though a bulkhead was optional in some builds.

The aft section of the boat is where the design truly excels for its size. The aft cabin features a large double berth positioned athwartships under the cockpit sole, offering dimensions more commonly found on 32-foot vessels. The galley is functional, equipped with a two-burner stove and a refrigerated icebox, while the heads compartment to starboard is surprisingly large, providing enough room for wet locker storage. A notable sibling to this model is the Feeling 30; while built on essentially the same hull, the Feeling 30 features a redesigned transom and sugar scoop, which slightly increased the overall length and modernized the cockpit access.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their inspections on the specific mechanical elements of the lifting keel system, as this is the most complex component of the Feeling 29.

1. Keel Lifting Mechanism: The centerboard is operated via a stainless steel cable and a manual winch located at the saloon table. Inspect the cable for fraying and ensure the pivot pin (the axis of the board) does not show signs of excessive lateral play, which can cause a "clunking" sound while at anchor.
2. Ballast Plate Oxidation: The external cast-iron ballast plate is prone to rust if the epoxy coating is compromised. Buyers should look for signs of "blooming" rust or delamination between the plate and the hull.
3. Rudder Bearings: Because the DI version utilizes twin rudders, the linkages and bearings are under constant load. Check for play in the tiller or steering mechanism, as worn nylon bushings are a common maintenance item for this age of vessel.
4. Deck Core Compression: Like many production boats of the late 90s, the deck is a sandwich construction. High-stress areas around the mast step and the genoa tracks should be checked for "sponginess," which may indicate moisture ingress into the balsa or foam core.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Feeling 29 are supported by a dedicated network of enthusiasts, primarily focused on the unique maintenance requirements of the DI system. The Club Feeling, a prominent French owners' association, maintains an extensive archive of technical manuals and modification guides for the 29 and its successor, the 30. For English-speaking owners, the Feeling Owners Club provides a forum for discussing modifications and organizing rallies, particularly in the UK’s South Coast and East Anglia regions where the boat’s shallow draft is a significant advantage.

The Verdict

The Feeling 29 remains a highly sought-after model on the secondary market because it offers a rare combination of modern interior volume and legitimate "go-anywhere" tidal capability. While it may not satisfy the "purist" racer, its ability to navigate where other boats cannot makes it a premier choice for coastal exploration.

Pros:

• Tidal Versatility: The integral centerboard version can be safely beached for hull cleaning or to wait out a tide.
• Interior Volume: Feels significantly larger than its 29-foot designation, thanks to the light wood and wide beam.
• Control: Twin rudders provide excellent tracking and responsiveness even when the boat is heavily loaded for cruising.

Cons:

• Maintenance: The lifting keel mechanism requires more oversight and periodic parts replacement than a fixed keel.
• Upwind Performance: The DI version suffers from slightly more leeway and drag compared to its deep-keeled competitors.
• Hardware Sizing: Some deck hardware, such as the original cleats and winches, may feel undersized for heavy-weather offshore use.