Feeling 346 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Feeling 346 was offered in two primary underwater configurations: a fixed fin keel (GTE) and the more iconic integral lifting keel (DI). The hull is characterized by a relatively wide beam that is carried well aft and a flat-bottomed section that facilitates early planing in heavy air. According to editorial analysis from Voiles et Voiliers, the hull design prioritizes stability and volume without sacrificing the "spirited" feel typical of Vaton’s designs.

In terms of handling, the DI version utilizes an internal ballast arrangement and a heavy NACA-profiled centerboard. While the lack of a deep bulb means the boat is slightly more tender than its fin-keel sibling, the 346 maintains a respectable sail-area-to-displacement ratio that makes it a potent performer in light to moderate winds. Owners frequently report that the boat tracks well due to its twin-rudder setup (standard on the DI version to maintain control when the board is retracted), though the helm can feel somewhat firm when the boat is pressed hard. The fin keel version, by contrast, offers a traditional single-rudder configuration and provides a more conventional "bite" when beating to windward in a chop.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Kirié was a pioneer in moving away from the dark, mahogany-heavy interiors of the 1970s. The Feeling 346 interior is defined by the use of light-colored woods—typically ash or elm—and a wraparound coachroof window that floods the saloon with natural light. This design choice, combined with a generous 3.50-meter beam, creates an interior volume that feels significantly larger than contemporary 34-footers.

The model was produced in two distinct layouts to cater to different cruising needs. The "Owner’s" version features a spacious two-cabin layout with a large head compartment and an expansive aft cabin situated to the port side. The "Club" or charter-focused version incorporates a three-cabin layout, adding a second symmetric aft cabin, though this necessitates a more compact galley and head arrangement. In both versions, the linear or L-shaped galley is well-regarded for its storage capacity. Sibling models, such as the later Feeling 356, were built on a modified version of this same hull, often updating the transom to include a more integrated swim platform while retaining the core interior philosophy of the 346.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a Feeling 346 requires a specific focus on the lifting keel mechanism if looking at the DI version. Technical discussions within the owner community and historical reports from Practical Boat Owner highlight several critical inspection points:

• Centerboard Mechanism: The pivot bolt and lifting wire are subject to significant wear. Potential buyers should request a service history of the centerboard’s removal and inspection, as the stainless steel cables can fray and the pivot hole in the board can elongate over decades of use.
• Window Seals: The large, iconic wraparound windows are prone to crazing and leaks. Replacing these panels is a complex task involving specialized adhesives, and evidence of water staining on the light ash cabinetry below the windows is a common red flag.
• Structural Grid: As with many performance cruisers of this era, the internal glassed-in "matrix" or grid should be inspected for signs of detachment or cracking, particularly near the keel stump or the centerboard trunk, which may indicate a hard grounding.
• Rudder Bearings: On the twin-rudder DI versions, the linkages and bearings can develop play. While not a structural failure, it significantly degrades the helm feel and requires semi-regular maintenance.

Community & Resources

The Feeling 346 benefits from a dedicated European following. The most prominent technical resource is the Club Feeling, a French-based association that maintains an extensive archive of technical drawings and owner-contributed "hacks" for maintaining the lifting keel systems. In the United Kingdom, the Feeling Owners Club provides a platform for English-speaking owners to share information regarding parts sourcing for the Kirié-specific components.

The Verdict

The Feeling 346 remains a highly sought-after used cruiser for sailors who value light interiors and the ability to explore shallow-water anchorages. It strikes a rare balance between French performance aesthetics and genuine coastal utility.

Pros:

• Exceptional interior natural light and "modern" feel for its age.
• The DI version allows for beaching and access to shallow harbors.
• Spacious aft cabins that rival 36-to-38-foot boats of the same era.
• Strong performance off the wind.

Cons:

• The lifting keel mechanism adds a layer of maintenance complexity and cost.
• Coachroof windows are prone to UV damage and leaking.
• The light ash interior shows water damage more prominently than darker woods.