Kirie Apollon Information, Review, Specs

As a contemporary of the early Dufour and Jeanneau models, the Apollon was characterized by its traditional masthead rig and a hull form that prioritized stability and interior volume over raw speed. It was built during a period of experimentation when fiberglass layups were significantly thicker than contemporary standards, resulting in a heavy, "bulletproof" hull that has allowed many of these vessels to survive well into the 21st century.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Kirié Apollon is a traditional heavy-displacement cruiser that prioritizes sea-kindliness over agility. With its moderate-to-high displacement-to-length ratio, the boat handles chop with a predictable, dampening motion that is often missing in modern, lighter fin-keel designs. The hull features a relatively deep-V entry that helps it slice through head seas, though its performance to windward is limited by its standard fixed keel and older foil designs.

In terms of handling, the Apollon is known for being remarkably "stiff," meaning it resists heeling even when slightly over-canvassed. This makes it an ideal platform for novice sailors or families who prefer a secure, upright sailing experience. However, the trade-off is felt in light air; the Apollon requires a significant breeze—typically 10 knots or more—to truly wake up and overcome its own wetted surface area. Under power, the original models were often equipped with small inboard diesels (such as the Renault Marine or early Yanmars), which provide adequate thrust but can make the boat feel sluggish in reverse due to the prop-walk typical of this era’s hull and rudder configurations.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel of its era and size (typically categorized around 7 to 8 meters), the Apollon offers a surprisingly voluminous interior. Kirié utilized the boat's beam and relatively high freeboard to create a cabin that felt significantly larger than its wooden predecessors. The layout usually follows a classic "four-berth" arrangement: a V-berth in the bow, a central salon with settees that double as bunks, and a compact galley located near the companionway for ventilation.

The materials used in the interior reflect the transitional period of the shipyard, often featuring a mix of molded fiberglass liners and extensive teak or mahogany joinery. While the "Feeling" series would later introduce brighter, open-plan concepts, the Apollon maintains a traditional, cozy "ship-like" feel. A notable sibling during this production era was the Kirié Fifty 27, which shared some of the shipyard's construction philosophy but focused more heavily on the motorsailer concept with an enclosed wheelhouse.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Kirié Apollon must account for the vessel's age, as most units are now over 50 years old. While the hulls are robust, they are susceptible to several specific "vintage" issues:

1. Osmotic Blistering: Early fiberglass hulls from the 1970s often used orthophthalic resins that are more prone to osmosis than modern vinylesters. A thorough moisture meter test and visual inspection of the hull below the waterline are essential.
2. Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this period, the Apollon utilizes a balsa or plywood sandwich construction for the decks. Check for "soft spots" around high-load areas like the mast step, chainplates, and stanchion bases, which indicate water infiltration and delamination.
3. Rigging and Spars: Many Apollons still carry their original gold-anodized aluminum masts. Inspect the mast base for corrosion and ensure the standing rigging has been replaced within the last 10–15 years, as original swage fittings are likely reaching their fatigue limit.
4. Engine Obsolescence: If the boat still retains its original engine, sourcing parts can be difficult. Buyers should prioritize hulls that have been repowered with modern Volvo Penta or Beta Marine units.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Apollon often find technical support and historical documentation through the broader French sailing community. While there is no longer a dedicated Apollon-specific factory association, the Association des Propriétaires de Feeling (APF) occasionally provides historical context for these "pre-Feeling" models, as they share the same Kirié DNA. Technical discussions and restoration logs are also frequently found on French-language maritime portals such as Bateaux.com, which maintains a database of legacy French designs.

The Verdict

The Kirié Apollon is a "tank" of a coastal cruiser, offering a level of structural security and classic charm that is hard to find in the modern used market at its price point. While it will never win a regatta, it remains a steadfast companion for those who value durability and tradition.

Pros

• Structural Integrity: Over-built fiberglass hull offers peace of mind in heavy weather.
• Predictable Motion: Stable and stiff, making it comfortable for nervous passengers.
• Classic Aesthetic: Features a traditional nautical interior with more woodwork than modern production boats.

Cons

• Light Air Performance: Struggles in breezes under 10 knots due to high displacement.
• Maintenance Heritage: Likely requires significant updates to plumbing, wiring, and rigging.
• Maneuverability: Significant prop-walk and heavy steering in tight marinas.