The skeghung rudder and modified fin keel give the double-ended hull a level of quickness and maneuverability unheard of in the cruising boats of the time. This, combined with a comfortable cruising interior and an exceptionally strong hull, made the Valiant 40 a veritable sailing phenomenon. The boat was originally built by Uniflite in Bellingham, Washington. When the firm went out of business, Rich Worstell, a successful Valiant dealer, took over production. The Valiant 40, however, remains the benchmark.
Today there is a permanent waiting list for used models.
Would-be owners can expect a long wait. A survey done by Worstell showed that half of the 40s built are still sailed by their original owners, many of whom are live-aboards. It has been the boat of choice for a number of circumnavigators and has recorded finishes at the top of fleets in some of the world's most challenging races, including the Singlehanded Transatlantic and the BOC Challenge. In the Valiant 40 Resourceful in l983, Mark Schrader set the record for the fastest circumnavigation, becoming the first American to sail around the world via the five capes. Of all the bragging rights that go with Valiant 40 ownership, one of the most impressive, according to Worstell, is that no Valiant 40 has suffered a disabling failure.