Feeling 396 Di

French designer Gilles Vaton created this distinctive 38-footer for coastal cruising and moderate offshore passages, featuring an unusual keel/centerboard configuration with dual rudders that sets it apart from conventional cruising sailboats. Built by Kirie in France starting in 2002, the Feeling 396 Di represents an interesting approach to performance cruising with its fractional sloop rig and fiberglass construction. The boat's dual rudder system provides excellent control and maneuverability, particularly useful when sailing in shallow waters where the centerboard can be raised. This design characteristic makes the 396 Di well-suited for exploring coastal areas and navigating varying depths that might challenge deeper fixed-keel boats. With a displacement of 17,681 pounds and substantial ballast, she offers good stability for extended coastal cruising. The moderate sail-area-to-displacement ratio suggests balanced performance that favors comfortable sailing over pure speed, while the comfort ratio indicates reasonable motion at sea for extended passages. Her hull speed of nearly 8 knots provides adequate performance for coastal exploration and island-hopping adventures. The 40-horsepower engine offers reliable auxiliary power for close-quarters maneuvering and motoring in calm conditions, making this an appealing choice for cruisers seeking versatility and distinctive French design.

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