Sailing Performance & Handling
The sailing characteristics of the Feeling 36 are defined by its hull configuration, which was offered in both a standard deep-fin keel and the more popular integral lifting keel version. In the DI configuration, the boat utilizes a massive internal ballast plate and twin rudders to maintain control when the centerboard is raised. According to editorial testing by Yachting Monthly, the twin rudders provide exceptional grip at high heel angles, a necessary feature given that the boat carries its beam well aft.
With a displacement of approximately 6,000 kg and a generous sail area, the Feeling 36 is surprisingly agile in light airs. The naval architects prioritized a low center of gravity; even in the lifting keel version, the cast-iron ballast is placed low in the hull, providing a stiff, stable platform. When sailing upwind, the centerboard provides a deep 2.20m (7'2") draft that minimizes leeway, while the ability to retract it to just 0.77m (2'6") allows for unique coastal tactics, such as cutting across sandbars that would stop other 36-footers. Owners often report that while the DI version is slightly slower than the fin-keel variant due to the drag of the centerboard slot, the trade-off in versatility is negligible for cruising purposes.
Interior Comfort & Variations
Inside, the Feeling 36 moved away from the darker woods of the 1980s, adopting a bright, airy aesthetic characterized by light elm or maple finishes and a plethora of deck saloon-style windows. The interior was typically offered in two main configurations: a two-cabin version with a massive starboard cockpit locker and a larger heads compartment, or a three-cabin version intended for larger families.
The "deck saloon" influence is evident in the raised seating area, which allows guests to see out of the coachroof windows while seated—a rarity in boats under 40 feet during this era. The galley is generally positioned to port and is designed for use at sea, featuring deep fiddles and a secure workspace. Sibling models like the smaller Feeling 32 and the larger Feeling 39 shared this design language, though the 36 is often cited as the "sweet spot" in the range, offering enough waterline length for serious passage-making while remaining small enough for short-handed maneuvering.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should focus their survey on the specific mechanical elements of the lifting keel system, which is more complex than a standard fixed keel.
- Centerboard Mechanism: The pivot bolt and the lifting pendants (cables) are wear items. It is essential to verify when the cables were last replaced, as a failure can lead to the board dropping or becoming jammed.
- Grounding Plate and Ballast: In the DI version, the hull is protected by a cast-iron grounding plate. Inspect this area for signs of heavy impact or rust-jacking, where oxidation between the plate and the fiberglass hull causes swelling.
- Rudder Linkage: Because the Feeling 36 uses twin rudders, the connecting rod and steering cables are under more stress than a single-rudder system. Check for play in the steering wheel, which often indicates worn bushings or loose linkage.
- Window Seals: The large coachroof windows are a signature feature but are prone to UV degradation over time. Check for evidence of water ingress or "crazing" in the acrylic panels, as replacements are custom-shaped and can be expensive to source.
Community & Resources
Owners of the Feeling 36 are supported by a dedicated community, most notably the Club Feeling, a French-based association that maintains extensive technical documentation and hosting annual rallies. While the association is primarily Francophone, it remains the highest-authority repository for original Kirié and Alliaura Marine manuals and technical drawings.
The Verdict
The Feeling 36 remains one of the most versatile mid-sized cruisers on the used market, particularly for sailors in regions with significant tidal ranges or shallow coastal waters.
Pros:
- True Beachability: The integral keel and twin rudders allow the boat to sit flat on the sand without additional legs.
- Interior Light: The raised saloon windows provide a bright, modern living space.
- Performance: Surprisingly quick for a lifting-keel boat, with excellent heavy-weather tracking.
Cons:
- Maintenance Complexity: The centerboard system requires more frequent inspection than a fixed keel.
- Availability: These boats were built in lower volumes than Beneteau or Jeanneau competitors, making them harder to find.
- Draft Sensitivity: Performance upwind relies heavily on the condition of the centerboard foil.
