Valiant 42 RS Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Valiant 42 RS is a heavy-displacement voyager designed to maintain high average speeds in offshore conditions rather than win regattas in light air. With a displacement-to-length ratio that places it firmly in the "heavy cruiser" category, the boat exhibits exceptional sea-kindliness. Its motion is predictable and dampened, a trait Robert Perry meticulously engineered by balancing the underwater volume. As noted in editorial evaluations by Cruising World, the boat’s ability to track straight is largely due to its long fin keel and large, skeg-hung rudder, which provides a level of directional stability that minimizes autopilot strain during long passages.

Under sail, the 42 RS is typically rigged as a cutter. This configuration allows for a versatile sail plan; the staysail provides essential drive and balance when the wind rises, allowing the crew to douse the genoa and maintain a centered effort. While the "RS" coachroof is taller than the standard "Classic" model, the impact on the center of gravity is negligible due to the substantial lead ballast encapsulated in the keel. Owners frequently report that the boat feels most at home in 15 to 25 knots of wind, where its powerful hull form can "shoulder" aside chop without losing momentum.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The "RS" designation is the defining characteristic of this model’s interior. By raising the coachroof and incorporating larger, eye-level portlights, Valiant transformed what was once a somewhat dark, traditional "cabin" into a bright, airy living space. This design allows for "deck saloon" functionality, where those seated at the dinette can enjoy a panoramic view of the anchorage. This is a significant departure from the standard Valiant 42, which features a lower profile and more traditional, smaller ports.

The interior is characterized by massive amounts of solid teak or cherry joinery, often finished to a high offshore standard with radiused corners and heavy-duty handrails. The layout usually features a large U-shaped galley to port—widely considered one of the best "sea galleys" in the industry due to its bracing points—and a dedicated forward-facing navigation station. The 42 RS was also produced alongside its "Classic" sibling; while they share the same hull and hardware, the Classic appeals to traditionalists who prefer a lower profile, while the RS is the preferred choice for those spending extended time in tropical or rainy climates where natural light affects morale.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Valiant 42 series, including the RS, carries the cultural weight of its predecessor, the Valiant 40, which was famously used by Mark Schrader for the first solo circumnavigation by an American via the five southern capes. The designer, Robert Perry, has frequently highlighted the 42 RS as a peak example of his "evolutionary" design process. In his own writings and technical commentaries, such as those found on PerryBoat, Perry discusses the delicate balance of maintaining the iconic double-ended aesthetics while modernizing the ergonomics of the cockpit and cabin house.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Valiant 42 RS is a premium build, there are specific areas potential buyers must investigate, particularly concerning the era and location of manufacture.

• Chainplates: The stainless steel chainplates are robust, but on older hulls, the sealant at the deck level can fail. Given the boat's age, a close inspection for crevice corrosion where the plates pass through the deck is essential.
• Aluminum Fuel Tanks: Some units were equipped with aluminum tanks that, if exposed to sitting water in the bilges, can develop pinhole leaks over decades. Prospective buyers should check for the "diesel smell" in the midships bilge areas.
• Deck Core: Valiant used a balsa-cored deck. While the factory was generally diligent about using solid glass in high-stress areas, any aftermarket hardware (solar arches, davits) installed by previous owners must be checked for moisture ingress.
• Blister History: It is vital to note that the Valiant 42 RS was built in Texas using Isophthalic resins. This distinguishes it from early 1970s Valiant 40s built in Washington, which were notorious for "fire retardant resin" blisters. The 42 RS is generally considered "blister-free" by comparison, but a standard haul-out survey is still required.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical knowledge and owner support is the Valiant Owners Group. This community is highly active and maintains an extensive archive of technical modifications, ranging from rudder bearing replacements to custom cabinetry additions. Because these boats were often semi-customized at the factory, the group is an invaluable resource for identifying "one-off" features installed for original owners.

The Verdict

The Valiant 42 RS is a quintessential blue-water yacht for the couple who prioritizes safety and structural integrity over modern "med-style" open transoms and light-displacement speed. It remains one of the few boats that can be comfortably lived on in a seaway while providing a bright, modern interior experience at anchor.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: Overbuilt for offshore work with high-quality hardware and joinery.
• Raised Saloon Interior: Provides significantly better light and visibility than the standard model.
• Ocean Tracking: The skeg-hung rudder and long fin keel offer superior directional stability.

Cons:

• Heavy Displacement: Requires a breeze to get moving; can feel sluggish in light air under 8 knots.
• Aft Cockpit Space: The double-ended design reduces cockpit volume compared to modern wide-stern cruisers.
• Price Premium: Maintains a high resale value, making it a significant investment compared to mass-produced cruisers of the same age.