Kelt 8.50 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

On the water, the Kelt 8.50 is characterized by its stiffness and predictable tracking. Gilles Vaton’s design utilizes a wide beam carried well aft, which provides significant form stability. This allows the boat to carry its sail area effectively in a breeze, reducing the need for early reefing compared to its narrower contemporaries. The boat was offered in two primary underwater configurations: a fixed deep fin keel and a versatile lifting-keel (dériveur lesté) version.

The lifting-keel variant is particularly notable for its versatility, allowing for exploration of shallow estuaries and the ability to dry out on sandy bottoms when equipped with beaching legs. While the fixed-keel version offers slightly better upwind pointing ability and less maintenance, the lifting keel does not significantly compromise the boat's "big boat" feel. Handling is generally described as balanced, though like many beamy boats of this era, the helm can become heavy if the vessel is over-canvassed and allowed to heel excessively. Under power, the 8.50 was typically fitted with a modest inboard diesel, such as the Yanmar 1GM or 2GM, which provides sufficient thrust for coastal hopping and maneuvering in tight marinas.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Kelt 8.50 was considered revolutionary upon its release, primarily due to the inclusion of a dedicated aft cabin. In a boat with an overall length of just under 28 feet, providing a private double berth tucked under the cockpit sole was a feat of spatial engineering that many competitors had yet to master. This layout transformed the 8.50 from a simple weekender into a legitimate family cruiser.

The main saloon features a central folding table flanked by settees that can serve as additional berths. The galley is positioned to starboard, typically equipped with a two-burner stove and a sink, while a dedicated navigation station sits to port. The head is located aft, which is a practical placement for access from the cockpit while underway. High-quality teak veneers were common in the earlier French builds, while the Canadian-built models sometimes featured different trim levels. When Kelt Marine was acquired by Kirié in 1986, the 8.50 hull was rebranded and continued its life as the Feeling 29, maintaining the same fundamental layout but often updating the interior aesthetics to match the more modern "Feeling" aesthetic.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

For prospective buyers, the Kelt 8.50 requires a focused inspection of its structural and mechanical age-related points.

• Lifting Keel Mechanism: On the dériveur lesté models, the pivot pin and the lifting cable are critical wear items. Corrosion in the centerboard trunk or a swollen cast-iron foil can lead to the board becoming jammed.
• Osmotic Blistering: Like many fiberglass boats of the early-to-mid 1980s, the Kelt 8.50 can be prone to osmosis. A hull survey is recommended to check for moisture levels, particularly in boats that have spent their lives in warmer waters.
• Deck Core Integrity: While the hulls are solid GRP, the decks are balsa-cored. Buyers should check for "soft spots" around high-load areas like the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the mast step, which may indicate water ingress and core rot.
• Engine Service: Many units still carry their original Yanmar or Volvo Penta engines. Check for signs of restricted raw-water cooling (common in the Yanmar 1GM series) and the condition of the sail drive seal if applicable.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Kelt 8.50 benefit from a strong European heritage and a dedicated following in the United Kingdom and France. Technical documentation and historical context are often maintained by the Association des Propriétaires de Feeling, which supports the lineage of boats built by Kirié, including the Kelt-designed models. In North America, while no formal manufacturer-backed association remains, the boat's Canadian production history means it remains a frequent subject of technical discussion on regional Great Lakes sailing forums.

The Verdict

The Kelt 8.50 is an over-achieving coastal cruiser that offers the interior privacy of a 32-footer in a compact, easy-to-manage 28-foot frame. Its blend of Gilles Vaton’s performance-oriented hull and the practical "French" interior layout makes it a compelling choice for small families or couples.

Pros:

• Exceptional Interior: The private aft cabin is a rare and highly desirable feature for a boat of this size.
• Stable Design: The wide beam provides a secure, stiff sailing experience.
• Versatility: The lifting keel version is ideal for shallow-water cruising and drying out.

Cons:

• Aging Systems: Original engines and plumbing may require significant updates.
• Keel Maintenance: The lifting mechanism requires more frequent inspection than a simple fin keel.
• Balsa Core Risks: Potential for deck delamination if hardware has not been periodically re-bedded.