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.

Eastport 32

The timeless lines of the Eastport 32 (32′ LOA, 11′ 9″ beam) have this traditional Chesapeake Bay working boat turning heads wherever she goes. However, the very modern Eastport 32 is designed and engineered to accommodate owners and guests in the recreational market.

Fishing, family fun or creek cruising, the large open cockpit and the signature “tailgate” provide a platform for all the family members and friends. The boat can be tricked out as a serious fishing machine and still have the creature comforts for an evening cocktail cruise. The Eastport 32 has a remarkable draft of only 22 inches, and the transom deadrise of 12 degrees offers a stable platform. Twin 260-hp turbo diesel engines offer a top speed of 33 knots, while a cruising speed of 27 knots offers a range of 400 miles.

A well-designed head, berths for two below and an airy cockpit with large hardtop for shelter from the beating sun make the Eastport 32 the complete package for fun and enjoyment on the water.

eastportyacht.com

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Eastport 32 OBX

With classic Chesapeake Bay deadrise lines, the new Eastport 32 OBX (outboard express) traces its heritage to a waterman’s working boat. But Eastport, an Annapolis-based company, uses modern composite materials and an innovative design to produce a performance that would set a waterman’s head spinning. Indeed, with twin 250-hp outboards, the Eastport 32 cruises at a steady 33 knots and tops out at 40 knots. And with a deep-V entry, a soft flare in the bow, a transom deadrise of just 12 degrees, and hard chines and lifting strakes, the Eastport 32 OBX gives a comfortable, dry ride whether you’re fishing in the bay or heading for a cruise off shore.

The Eastport 32 OBX has a large open cockpit for fishing, diving or entertaining. Originally designed with inboard diesel engines, a 300-gallon fuel tank now occupies that space, while under the cockpit sole aft, there’s room for a genset. An extended hardtop protects the pilothouse; an Eisenglass roll-down curtain can complete the enclosure aft. Eastport specializes in customizing each boat, but in this model there’s a settee on the port side; the galley to starboard comes with stainless sink, fridge, microwave, Corian countertop, and storage. Below, the cabin has a head with shower, sink and storage, and a V-berth with a filler cushion. eastportyacht.com