Reliant Yachts Bags New Build Order

Reliant Yachts of Newport, R.I. has announced a new build is under contract for a 40-foot limousine tender utilizing their X series platform.

Jim Ewing, principal at Reliant Yachts states, “We want to create a tender that shares the beauty and functionality of the classic Venetian water taxi, but in a completely modern way. The contemporary megayacht tender has to be a proper yacht unto itself, able to deal with diverse sea conditions, so hull design and stability are key.” The 40-footer is slated for completion in early 2018, and will be delivered to Italy to be used as a luxury tender to a large new construction megayacht.

Ewing adds, “Although the parameters of the tender garage offer challenges — tight clearances, load restrictions, crane pickups — we see that as a way to utilize our design and building skills. We have to make incremental adjustments everywhere to accommodate the garage plan, but without losing functionality or compromising the lines. Frankly that will always be the case when building a tender for a megayacht; where and how it is stored is always critical.”

Engines will be aft to minimize noise in the main cabin. Construction utilizes carbon fiber to keep the weight down while maintaining structural integrity. The hull, as with all of the X series hulls, will be a deep-V. Speeds are anticipated in excess of 30 knots. Natural light and visibility are a key design parameter, with a large powered overhead hatch and wrap-around glass cabin sides. Where the head is located aft, the glass transitions to tinted privacy glass without the use of visible mullions on the exterior. Guests may enter forward or aft with a private sitting cockpit aft. Other features include generator, air conditioning, wet bar with refrigerator, leather seating, intercom communication with helm, and a state-of-the-art entertainment system.

Ewing concludes, “A Seakeeper stabilizer is being installed to provide the most comfortable experience possible for passengers. Megayachts are often berthed a fair distance from port, so having to traverse through chop is not uncommon. We want this tender to be every bit as comfortable as it is beautiful.”