I always find it interesting that people who have never owned a Formosa are willing to pass along their advise based on “what they’ve heard”. I own a 1978 Formosa 41 Yankee Clipper and couldn’t be happier. Just as with cars, computers, televisions, what ever, there are some lemons in the barrel. But that doesn’t mean they are all bad.
Knight Hawk has beautiful teak decks over fiberglass. I’ve had several people tell me to strip it all off, fill in the screw holes and refinish the deck with non skid. Teak decks are non skid and beautiful to boot. Yes, they are a bit more work when it comes to maintenance but I wouldn’t trade them in for a glass deck ever. I had several planks that were coming loose so I had them replaced. The deck below is solid and has no rot at all. In fact I have no leaks in the decking anywhere.
The wiring is in as good a shape as any can be for being nearly 30 years old in a marine environment. Many older boats need a bit of rewiring at that age. There are some changes I will make along the way but none that present an immediate issue. On item is the original distribution panel. I’m not happy with it because it doesn’t allow for expansion, so it will be replaced.
The hulls on these boats are stout and strong. Most areas below the water line are an inch or more in thickness. The full keel is molded into the boat so there are no keel bolts to worry about. The rudder and propeller are well protected and unless you back into a bar you won’t hurt anything if you run aground. The full keel also makes it track like a freight train. The down side is that it has a wider turning radius and also backs like a freight train. Steering in reverse is nearly non existent.
Yes they are a bit heavy and therefore a bit slower in the lighter winds. Unlike the high aspect ratio rigs, the Formosa’s have shorter, raked masts with longer booms. In light air they are somewhat inefficient, but then they were designed for the trades. When the wind picks up and others start to feel overpowered the Formosa comes to life. 5.8 to 6.2 knots is where my boat seems to settle in. The ride is smooth and comfortable.
IMHO they are great cruising boats and shouldn’t be overlooked. Of course it depends on what you are looking for. If you are in a hurry to get where you’re going, this isn’t the boat to buy. But if you are looking for a comfortable, affordable cruiser then don’t scratch it off your list.
As for the Reliance I can’t speak on it because I’ve never owned one. I’ll leave it to someone who has experience with that make.
Best of luck in your search and smooth sailing.
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