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.

MJM Yachts 35z

When MJM Yachts was designing a replacement for their classic 29z, 34z, and 36z, the company stayed true to its DNA of cutting-edge design, and the result is the 35z (37′ 11.5″ LOA, 11′ beam). The 35z was designed from the keel up to take advantage of the latest technology in outboard engines and gyro stabilization.

Featuring MJM’s well-known modern take on the classic Downeast design, the MJM Yachts 35z offers a modified deep-V hull with a greater waterline length-to-beam ratio and flush-deck design from open transom to wheel with side boarding doors at floating dock level. She is powered by twin 300-hp Mercury Verado outboard engines and comes standard with the joystick piloting for outboards, Skyhook station keeping, engine auto trim, and autopilot. Top speed is 46 mph; back down to cruising speed and the range is 230 miles.

The optional Seakeeper 3 takes advantage of the latest in gyro stabilization for smaller boats and runs off D/C power, so there’s no need for a genset. The combination of design and epoxy composite construction makes an MJM stronger, more stable, lighter, and longer lasting.

mjmyachts.com

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