Feeling 960 Information, Review, Specs

The 960 shares a close genetic lineage with several other models in the Kirié stable. It effectively succeeded the Feeling 920, offering more interior volume and a refined hull shape. Crucially, the 960's hull and general layout served as the direct blueprint for the subsequent Feeling 326. While the 326 featured a revised deck mold and more modern interior finishes, the underwater lines and sailing characteristics remained largely identical to the 960, making the two models functional siblings in the brokerage market today.

Sailing Performance & Handling

On the water, the Feeling 960 is recognized for its balanced temperament and ability to punch above its weight in light-to-moderate air. With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the lighter side of the cruising spectrum, the boat is responsive to sail trim and accelerates quickly. Owners often note that the boat feels "stiff" despite its light weight, a characteristic attributed to its 3.23-meter beam which provides significant form stability.

The 960 was offered in two primary underwater configurations: a deep fin keel (approximately 1.70m) and the sought-after "Dériveur Intégral" version. The fin keel variant tracks exceptionally well upwind and offers a traditional feel, while the DI version utilizes an internal ballasted plate that retracts fully into the hull. This allows the boat to be beached upright on its reinforced bottom, a feature that made it immensely popular in the tidal waters of Brittany and the English Channel. While the DI version sacrifices a small degree of pointing ability compared to the fin keel, the flexibility to enter shallow anchorages is often cited as a fair trade-off by coastal cruisers. According to historical technical summaries from Voiles et Voiliers, the 960 handles predictably under power, though the wide stern and relatively small rudder can make it prone to prop-walk when reversing in tight marina berths.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Feeling 960 was considered revolutionary for a 31-foot boat in the 1980s. Kirié was one of the first mass-producers to perfect the "aft cabin" layout in this size range, successfully moving the engine forward or centering it to allow for a large, private double berth under the cockpit. This layout maximized the use of the yacht’s wide transom, providing a level of privacy usually reserved for vessels over 35 feet.

The main salon is characterized by a "U-shaped" seating arrangement to port and a linear galley or traditional settee to starboard, depending on the specific year of production. The use of light-colored woods, typically ash or light oak, was a signature Kirié move to combat the "cave-like" feel of many contemporary yachts. Headroom is generous, exceeding 1.85m in the main cabin, which remains impressive for a boat of this vintage. Variations in the interior are mostly found in the transition to the 326 model, which replaced the 960's more angular joinery with rounded moldings and updated upholstery.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Feeling 960 should focus their inspection on several specific areas common to Kirié builds of this era:

• Keel Trunk and Pivot (DI Versions): For lifting keel models, the pivot pin and the lifting cable are critical wear items. It is common for the keel trunk to accumulate marine growth if not maintained, which can jam the foil. Buyers should verify the age of the stainless steel lifting cable and inspect the internal ballast for signs of oxidation.
• Deck Core and Hardware: Like many boats of the 1980s, the 960 uses a balsa-cored deck. Moisture ingress around the stanchion bases and the oversized cabin windows is a known "gotcha." Spongy sections of the deck or brown staining on the interior liner are red flags for core delamination.
• Rudder Bearings: The 960’s rudder is semi-balanced, and over time, the bushings can develop significant play. This is often felt as a "thumping" or vibration through the tiller or wheel when sailing at high speeds or under heavy load.
• Window Seals: The large, wrap-around coachroof windows are a defining aesthetic feature but are prone to leaking as the original bedding compound dries out. Re-bedding these windows is a labor-intensive but necessary task for many hulls on the market.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Feeling 960 benefit from a robust, albeit primarily French-speaking, support network. The Club Feeling is the most prominent organization, providing a wealth of technical documentation, original brochures, and DIY repair guides specifically for the Kirié-built range. While the shipyard has evolved through several ownership changes, the technical heritage of the 960 is well-preserved within these enthusiast groups, who often organize rallies across the European coast.

The Verdict

The Feeling 960 remains a standout choice for sailors seeking a versatile, sub-10-meter cruiser that feels significantly larger than its dimensions suggest. Its blend of French flair and practical engineering makes it an enduring favorite on the used market.

Pros

• Exceptional Volume: The aft cabin layout and wide beam provide a living space comparable to many modern 34-footers.
• Versatile Keel Options: The "Dériveur Intégral" version allows for beaching and shallow-water exploration.
• Lively Performance: A responsive hull design that performs well in light winds and remains stable in a breeze.

Cons

• Maintenance Intensive: Older lifting keel mechanisms require regular hauling and inspection to ensure reliability.
• Aging Plastics: The large acrylic windows and deck hardware are prone to leaks if not meticulously maintained.
• Limited English Documentation: Most original technical manuals and owner communities are centered in France.