Feeling 446 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Feeling 446 is recognized for its balanced helm and surprising agility for a yacht of its displacement. With a sail area-to-displacement ratio that leans toward the "performance-cruiser" category, the boat excels in medium-to-heavy air, where the Briand-designed hull provides a stable platform and excellent tracking. Owners often report that while the integral centerboard (DI) version carries more internal ballast to compensate for the lack of a deep bulb, the performance trade-off is minimal until reaching high-pointing angles upwind.

The deck layout is optimized for short-handed sailing, featuring a large cockpit that remains dry even in choppy Atlantic conditions. On the DI versions, the centerboard is operated via a manual or electric winch system; when fully deployed, it provides significant lift and reduces leeway. However, the 446 is at its most potent on a reach, where the broad stern and relatively flat aft sections allow it to surf comfortably in following seas.

Interior Comfort & Variations

One of the most radical departures for the Feeling 446 at the time of its release was the interior aesthetic. Moving away from the dark, somber teak interiors of the early 1980s, Kirié utilized light elm and ash woods, combined with an abundance of overhead deck hatches and large wrap-around ports in the coachroof. This created an "aquarium effect," flooding the saloon with natural light—a design language that was heavily editorialized in period reviews.

The boat was offered in several internal configurations to suit different markets. The "Owner’s Version" typically features three large double cabins, with the master suite located forward, often including an en-suite head and a small settee. The "Charter Version" utilized a four-cabin layout (Feeling 446.4), which split the forward section into two smaller double berths. This versatility allowed the 446 hull to serve both private cruisers and the high-end Mediterranean charter market. The galley is generally linear and positioned to port, providing ample workspace and storage for long-term provisioning.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Feeling 446 with a technical focus on its complex systems and age-related wear:

• Lifting Keel Mechanism: On the DI (integral centerboard) versions, the centerboard trunk and the pivot pin are critical inspection points. Wear in the bushings can lead to "clunking" sounds while at anchor or sailing. The lifting cable and its attachment points should be replaced every five to seven years to prevent a mid-passage failure.
• Deck-to-Hull Joint and Ports: The large coachroof windows that provide the model's signature light are prone to crazing or seal failure after decades of UV exposure. Re-sealing these is a labor-intensive but necessary task to prevent interior wood damage.
• Grid Structure: Like many production boats of this era with inner liners, it is essential to inspect the bonding between the hull and the internal glass-fiber grid. Signs of separation near the keel bolts or chainplates may indicate past grounding or high-stress sailing.
• Osmosis: While Kirié hulls are generally robust, boats from this era pre-date the widespread use of vinylester resins. A moisture meter test on the hull is standard practice to check for osmotic blistering.

Community & Resources

The Feeling 446 benefits from a dedicated European following, particularly in France. The most prominent technical resource is Club Feeling, an owner-run association that maintains an extensive archive of technical drawings, rigging specs, and modification guides specifically for the Kirié-era models. While the shipyard has evolved under different ownership, the shared knowledge within this community remains the primary source for part cross-referencing and restoration advice.

The Verdict

The Feeling 446 remains a compelling choice for sailors who refuse to choose between shallow-draft versatility and blue-water performance. Its bright, airy interior still feels contemporary compared to its peers, though the complexity of its lifting keel requires a more rigorous maintenance schedule than a standard fin-keel yacht.

Pros:

• Versatile Draft: The integral centerboard version allows access to anchorages inaccessible to most 44-footers.
• Natural Light: The light wood and expansive glazing create one of the most inviting saloons of its era.
• Briand Pedigree: A fast, stable hull that handles offshore conditions with confidence.

Cons:

• Maintenance Intensity: The lifting keel system requires specialized knowledge and periodic mechanical overhaul.
• Aging Plastics: The large acrylic windows are expensive to replace and prone to leaking if neglected.
• Engine Access: While functional, the engine compartment can be tight for major mechanical repairs compared to more modern, volume-optimized designs.