Reliant Yachts X40

The Reliant Yachts X40 (40′ 4″ LOA, 12′ 6″ beam) is a modern interpretation of the Downeast style, and her sharp angles and plumb bow will stand out from the crowd whether in Newport, Miami or the French Riviera. Jim Ewing and partner David MacFarlane have long been known for their involvement in two of yachting’s classic names, Trumpy and Alden.

The X40 cockpit can accommodate up to 10 guests and has a walk-through transom door to the swim platform. The galley is below-decks and to port, with a two-burner stove, refrigerator, microwave, and plenty of storage. Across from the galley to starboard is a sitting area that converts to a guest berth. Forward to starboard is the head with a large separate shower, and the queen master is forward.

Powered by twin Cummins 480-hp diesels with optional Konrad drives, the X40 will top 40 knots and cruises at 32 knots. reliantyachts.com

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Downeast Boats Roundup

Downeast boats conjure scenes of lobster boils and comfortable cruising. Sit back, relax and enjoy our Downeast Boats Roundup.

More than 100 years ago, what’s now known as a “Downeast boat” was a working vessel. Built to plow through rough seas, it offered low windage, a stable hull and a cockpit big enough for hauling and accommodating lobster traps.

Sometime since then, boat designers took that look, added their personal brand of upscale and transformed the style into that of a luxury cruiser. What follows here is a look at the top 16 Downeast boats, each an elegant example of what happens when designers and builders work together to combine beauty with functionality. As you’ll learn in the following stories, getting it just right is what matters.

Back Cove Downeast 37

Reliant Yachts X40

Hinckley Picnic Boat 40

Legacy 42 IPS

Huckins Atlantic 44

Grand Banks Eastbay 44SX

NEB/ZURN 50

Sabre 45 Salon Express

By Doug Thompson, Southern Boating December 2017

Want more of our Downeast Boats Roundup? Try our Downeast Buyers Guide.

Bruckmann Abaco 47

Modeled on the success of the Abaco 40’s performance and seakeeping characteristics, the Bruckmann Abaco 47 (47′ 5″ LOA, 15′ beam) offers a larger platform with more accommodation for extended cruising. Designed by Mark Ellis, this innovative hull configuration allows the Abaco 47 to plane at low speeds (12 knots) for fuel-efficient performance, with single or twin-engine power options.

The single-engine uses a Caterpillar C18 1,136-hp diesel and cruises in the low teen to a mid-20-knot range with a top speed of 30 knots. The twin-engine configuration is powered by twin Caterpillar C8.7 641-hp diesels and cruises in the mid to high 20-knot range with a top speed of 34 knots. As with the single-engine installation, a centerline skeg provides the same directional stability and tracking performance as well as grounding protection.

Accommodations include a spacious queen master and ensuite head with separate shower, and the guest cabin to starboard offers a double berth or twin single berths. The large pilothouse offers an L-shaped settee with dining table converts to a double berth when needed. Forward port and starboard are Stidd helmsman and co-pilot seats; comfortable seating invites outdoor dining or lounging.

bruckmannyachts.com

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