Feeling 48 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Feeling 48 defies the common misconception that lifting-keel boats are sluggish or lack pointing ability. With its keel fully extended to approximately 3.10 meters (over 10 feet), the boat exhibits a remarkably high righting moment and exceptional windward performance. This deep draft is balanced by a massive cast-iron ballast plate embedded in the hull, which provides a low center of gravity even when the foil is retracted. The sail plan is typically configured as a cutter or a powerful sloop, providing the versatility needed for heavy-weather reefing or light-wind ghosting.

The handling characteristics are defined by its twin-rudder configuration. These rudders are essential for two reasons: they provide exceptional grip and "traction" when the boat is heeled—preventing the round-up common in wide-stern yachts—and they are shorter than a single deep rudder, allowing the boat to sit level on its hull and rudders when beached. Owners frequently report a balanced, "on rails" sensation when reaching, though the helm can feel somewhat disconnected compared to a deep-keeled racing yacht due to the complexity of the twin-rudder linkage. The boat's displacement-to-length ratio suggests a sea-kindly motion, optimized for long-distance passage-making rather than rapid acceleration.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Feeling 48 is a hallmark of the Alliaura Marine transition, characterized by a move toward "light and airy" aesthetics. The shipyard utilized light-colored woods, such as maple or light oak, which, combined with the raised coachroof and large wrap-around windows, creates a deck-saloon feel. This "panoramic" view allows the crew to monitor the horizon while seated at the navigation station or the U-shaped dinette.

The layout was typically offered in three- or four-cabin configurations. The owner’s version features a luxurious forward master suite with a centerline island berth and a private head. The sibling Feeling 52 shares much of this design DNA, scaled up for even greater autonomy, while the smaller Feeling 44 offers a similar lifting-keel experience in a more manageable package for couple-based cruising. A notable interior variation found in some hulls is the inclusion of a technical room or a dedicated workshop in place of one of the aft cabins, making the 48 a favorite for "blue water" circumnavigators who require storage for watermakers and spare parts.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Feeling 48 has gained a loyal following in the "shallow water" cruising community, particularly among sailors exploring the shifting sands of the Bahamas or the tidal estuaries of Brittany and the British Isles. The model was a frequent subject of technical analysis in French publications like Voiles et Voiliers, which lauded its ability to access anchorages that are strictly off-limits to other 48-footers. While not a frequent star of YouTube sailing vlogs, it remains a "cult classic" among serious cruisers who prioritize the ability to "dry out" in remote locations without the beam-width constraints of a catamaran.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Feeling 48 with a specialized inspection list, focusing primarily on the lifting keel mechanism, which is the boat’s most complex system.

1. Keel Lifting Mechanism: The foil is moved via a hydraulic or manual winch system (depending on the year and specification). Inspect the cables, pulleys, and the keel trunk itself for signs of stress or wear. The "pennant" (the cable that lifts the keel) is a consumable item and should be replaced every few years.
2. Cast Iron Ground Plate: The ballast plate is exposed to the elements. Check for signs of significant oxidation or "blooming" of rust, which can indicate that the protective epoxy coating has been breached.
3. Twin Rudder Linkage: Because the rudders are connected via a crossbar, any play in the bushings or the linkage can lead to a "vague" feeling at the helm. Inspect the rudder bearings for lateral movement.
4. Window Sealing: The large panoramic windows are a signature feature but are prone to leaks if the sealant has degraded over 15+ years of UV exposure. Check for water staining on the light wood cabinetry below the window lines.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Feeling 48 typically congregate within the broader Club Feeling, a dedicated association of owners that maintains a technical database on the maintenance of Kirié and Alliaura Marine yachts. While the original shipyard has transitioned through several ownership hands, technical support and spare parts for the lifting keel systems are often sought through specialized French yards that continue to service the "Feeling" fleet.

The Verdict

The Feeling 48 is a rare breed of yacht that offers the interior volume and offshore capability of a 50-foot cruiser with the "go-anywhere" freedom of a dinghy. It is the ideal vessel for the experienced sailor who refuses to choose between deep-water performance and the ability to tuck into a secluded, shallow cove.

Pros:

• Unrivaled Access: The 1-meter minimum draft allows entry into shallow harbors and estuaries.
• Beaching Capability: Can safely sit on its own hull for hull cleaning or to wait out a tide.
• Bright Interior: The deck-saloon windows and light wood create an exceptionally inviting living space.
• Offshore Stability: The 3-meter-plus draft when the keel is down provides excellent windward performance.

Cons:

• Maintenance Complexity: The lifting keel system requires more diligent oversight than a fixed keel.
• Keel Trunk Intrusion: The housing for the retracted keel occupies space in the center of the saloon.
• Market Rarity: Relatively few units were built, making them difficult to find on the secondary market.