Introduction
Feeling Yachts, a celebrated name in the world of sailing, has become synonymous with versatile and innovative cruising yachts. Renowned for their exceptional design and reliable performance, Feeling Yachts are highly regarded by sailing enthusiasts and families alike. Their emphasis on comfort, safety, and pioneering features makes the brand a sought-after choice for yacht buyers seeking both adventure and reliability on the water.
History of Feeling Yachts
Founded in the late 1970s in France, Feeling Yachts originated as part of the Kirié shipyard, a company with a long-standing tradition of boatbuilding since 1912. The Feeling line was introduced as a response to the growing demand for modern sailing yachts that blend performance with comfort. By the 1980s, the Feeling series had garnered a reputation for producing some of the earliest cruising yachts with innovative design characteristics, notably the adoption of lifting keels which revolutionised shallow-water cruising.
Key Milestones and Innovations
- Lifting Keel Technology: Feeling Yachts are widely credited with popularising lifting keel systems in the cruising yacht market, granting access to shallow waters without sacrificing sailing performance.
- Spacious Light Interiors: The brand set itself apart by designing yachts with airy, light-filled interiors, maximising comfort and usability for longer voyages.
- Range Expansion: Through the 1990s and early 2000s, Feeling expanded its model line-up, introducing yachts from 30 to over 50 feet, including popular models like the Feeling 346, Feeling 44, and the bluewater-capable Feeling 52.
- Environmental Awareness: Recent designs have emphasised eco-friendly materials and more efficient hull forms, aligning with the growing trend of sustainable yachting.
Notable Models
- Feeling 326: Renowned for its practical layout and ease of handling, a favourite among coastal cruisers.
- Feeling 39 DI: A popular model recognised for its deck saloon design, lifting keel, and excellent liveaboard comfort.
- Feeling 52: The flagship of the brand, this luxury cruising yacht is celebrated for its ocean-going capability and remarkable onboard space.
Unique Selling Points of Feeling Yachts
What truly sets Feeling Yachts apart is their commitment to versatile ownership experiences. The innovative swing and lifting keel designs enable sailors to explore shallow waters and secluded bays typically inaccessible to other cruising yachts. Furthermore, the use of panoramic windows and open-plan layouts in their deck saloon yachts offers unbeatable natural light, creating a welcoming atmosphere below deck. Owners appreciate the robust build quality, sailing stability, and excellent resale value that Feeling Yachts provide.
Reputation and Recent Developments
Feeling Yachts have maintained a strong presence in the used yacht market, with models often sought after by families, bluewater cruisers, and adventure sailors. Their reputation for ingenuity and dependability ensures that Feeling yachts for sale continue to attract discerning buyers globally. In recent years, the brand has renewed its focus on sustainability and modern yacht design, further solidifying its position as a noteworthy player in the European cruising yacht sector.
Conclusion
With a legacy built on innovation, comfort, and exceptional sailing experiences, Feeling Yachts remains a respected and admired name in the boating world. Prospective buyers looking for a reliable, versatile, and stylish sailing yacht would do well to consider the broad range of Feeling yachts for sale, each carrying the heritage of French craftsmanship and engineering excellence.