Reliant launches X40L Lander tender

Feb 7, 2019 by Triton Staff

Reliant Yachts of Newport, Rhode Island, has launched the third of its three new X series boats: the X40L Lander. It follows the previously released X40 Express and X40T Limousine Tender.

Reliant Yachts partners Jim Ewing and Dave MacFarlane initially designed the 40-foot utility boat for a client who had a superyacht under construction, according to a company statement.

The design brief required that the boat function as a landing craft and be able to carry considerable loads, including a car. But by the time the X40L was launched in Tuzla, Turkey, it had become even more versatile – serving as a luxury tender, car carrier, utility vehicle, landing craft, dining tender, scuba platform, water disco, floating galley and jet boat, Ewing stated.

At 24,250 pounds, the Lander is a third heavier than its two sister boats. According to the builder, a complex hull design was needed to accommodate variable weight distribution. At any given time, the forward areas of the boat might be loaded down with heavy cargo or a couple thousand pounds of cocktail crew. At other times, that section may be empty. The solution, according to Reliant, was a broad beam extended all the way forward to carry the weight when loaded, while hidden below the bluff bow are much slimmer hull sections on which the boat runs in a light-load condition. Additionally, ballast tanks can be monitored and controlled from the helm station to trim the X40L when empty of cargo.

The boat’s landing-craft-style drop-down bow accommodates cars or other vehicles rolling on and off. Hamilton jet drives allow it to maneuver in shallow water. Pop-up hydraulic winches kedge the boat ashore and off again, and removable carbon davits help lift heavy cargo.

The deck was fitted with Flexi-Teak for double duty as a party platform. There is a full outdoor galley aft of the helm station, a stone-top table that seats 14 and lifts up from under the deck via electric motor, and an Apple Airplay entertainment system for movies and music. Footlighting and underwater lights help set the party mood.

According to Reliant, in light winds and calm seas, with two crew aboard and carrying no extra weight or ballast, the X40L cruises at 11-16 knots, with a top speed of 24 knots. Unballasted but with a vehicle on board, the boat cruises at 10-12 knots and had a top speed of just over 16 knots.

For more information, visit reliantyachts.com.

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