Feeling 32 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Feeling 32 is a tale of two hulls depending on the keel configuration. The "DI" (Dériveur Intégral) version features a fully retracting centerboard that disappears into the hull, allowing for a draft of just 0.80 meters. To compensate for the lack of a deep keel, the DI version utilizes a heavily ballasted hull plate. This gives the boat a high displacement-to-length ratio compared to its fixed-keel counterparts, resulting in a stable, sea-kindly motion that handles choppy coastal waters with composure. However, the DI version is notoriously less "pointy" upwind than the GTE (Grand Tirant d'Eau) version, which features a 1.90-meter fixed fin keel.

Handling is assisted by a twin-rudder configuration on the DI model, which is essential for maintaining control when heeled and for providing a stable tripod base when beaching the vessel. In an editorial retrospective by Yachting Monthly, the handling was noted for being forgiving, though the DI version requires the sails to be reefed early to keep the boat upright and efficient. The boat tracks well off the wind, benefiting from Vaton’s expertise in offshore racing hull shapes, which ensures the 32-footer remains balanced even when pressed in a blow.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Feeling 32 was a radical departure from the dark, teak-heavy cabins of its predecessor, the 326. Utilizing light-colored woods—typically light oak or ash—the cabin feels significantly larger than its 32-foot LOA suggests. The defining feature is the panoramic coachroof windows, which allow for a 180-degree view from the saloon, a rarity in boats of this size at the time of its launch.

The standard layout consists of two cabins: a large V-berth forward and a surprisingly spacious aft cabin tucked under the cockpit. The saloon features a central folding table; in the DI version, the centerboard casing is integrated into the table structure, though it is cleverly disguised to avoid obstructing movement. The galley is L-shaped and positioned to port, offering a gimballed stove and sufficient refrigeration for coastal hop-scotching. A notable variation in the Feeling 32 "Special" trim included upgraded upholstery and enhanced wood finishes, while the "Standard" version focused on utilitarian durability.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their inspections on the specific complexities of the lifting keel mechanism if looking at a DI model. While robust, the system requires periodic maintenance.

• Centerboard Pivot and Pennant: The stainless steel pin and the lifting line (pennant) are subject to wear. If the board "clunks" while at anchor, the nylon bushings may need replacement.
• Window Seals: The large, curved acrylic windows are a signature feature but can be prone to crazing or seal failure over time. Inspect the interior woodwork for water staining beneath the ports.
• Rudder Bearings: The twin-rudder setup puts unique stresses on the steering linkages. Check for excessive play in the bushings, which can lead to a "vague" feeling at the helm.
• Ballast Plate Corrosion: On DI versions, the cast-iron ballast plate at the bottom of the hull should be checked for signs of significant oxidation or delamination of the epoxy coating, which can occur if the boat has been frequently beached on abrasive surfaces.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Feeling 32 often congregate within the Club Feeling, a dedicated association for owners of Kirié-built yachts. While primarily French-speaking, the association provides invaluable technical diagrams for the lifting keel mechanisms and historical brochures. Technical support for the older Kirié models is also occasionally serviced through legacy knowledge at Privilège Marine, which absorbed the Feeling brand in 2010.

The Verdict

The Feeling 32 remains one of the most versatile 32-footers on the secondhand market, particularly for sailors in tidal regions like the Brittany coast or the Chesapeake Bay. It successfully bridges the gap between a performance cruiser and a go-anywhere coastal explorer.

Pros:

• Beaching Capability: The DI version can dry out upright, opening up shallow anchorages and reducing haul-out costs.
• Natural Light: The panoramic windows create an exceptionally bright and airy interior for a boat of this vintage.
• Build Quality: The Kirié shipyard was known for solid layup techniques and robust joinery.

Cons:

• Upwind Performance: The DI version suffers from more leeway and a wider tacking angle than fixed-keel competitors.
• Maintenance: The lifting keel and twin rudders add layers of mechanical complexity compared to a standard fin-keel sloop.
• Window Crazing: The large windows can be expensive to replace if they become clouded or cracked.