A traditional-looking Downeast boat from stem to stern, the new Reliant 40 Commuter is the first model from a new company based in Newport, Rhode Island, formed by two of the most respected names in the business: David MacFarlane, the former president and CEO of Alden (and Cal, Ranger and Rampage), and Jim Ewing, the former president of Trumpy and executive VP of Alden.
And although many things have changed in yacht building over the years, they know that important things remain the same. “What hasn’t changed is the boating public’s passion for a beautiful boat,” says MacFarlane. The Reliant 40 Commuter built by Su Marine in Turkey has meticulous craftsmanship, fit and finish, with varnish and satin-finished mahogany throughout. The Downeast ethic shows in the tumblehome, wide teak decks and teak swim platform.
The cockpit is large for entertaining, with an aft settee and inlaid teak table. Under the hardtop, the helm deck has seating for four, plus the captain and mate. The galley is below and to port, with two-burner stove, fridge, microwave, and lots of cabinets. The head is to starboard, with mahogany finish and large separate shower; the queen master is forward. Power is twin Yanmar 320-hp diesels with straight shafts. Cruise speed is 24 knots; top speed is 30 knots.