LUDERS 44
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 44 ft |
| LWL | 30 ft |
| Beam | 10.6 ft |
| Draft | 6 ft |
| Displacement | 23,400 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.3 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 52.5 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 16.5 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 46.5 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 18 ft |
| PYmizzen luff | 20.5 ft |
| EYmizzen foot | 8.08 ft |
| FLforestay | 16.5 ft |
| Mainsail | 885.1 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 433.1 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 736.3 sq ft |
About the LUDERS 44
Built for the US Naval Academy by Luders Marine Construction. (AKA NAVAL ACADEMY YAWL/NA 44) Originally of wood planked construction (1939). Replaced with a fiberglass version (by Uniflite) in 1963 with a slightly different hull/rig design and different interior layout. (4 went to the US Coast Guard) A few of the FG version were sold to individuals as sloops/cutters. (See ANNAPOLIS 44). Naval Academy boats were passed on to the US Coast Guard Academy for a few years before being sold off to individuals. (Replaced in 1985 with the NAVY 44/DEFIANCE CLASS by McGurdy & Rhodes and again, in 2000, with a Dave Pedrick designed 44 footer.) The layout shown here is for the original wood version. Thanks to Mainbrace 76, and several others for providing additional background information. Specs above are for the original wood version See LUDERS 44 (FG) for specs on the Fiberglass (1963) version.
Designed by A. E. Luders and built by Luders Marine Construction, the Luders 44 is a rare classic with only 12 hulls built in 1939. This single-year production run creates a unique, low-volume fleet that commands attention as a historic artifact rather than a mass-market cruiser.
- Best for:
- This boat suits serious classic boat enthusiasts and preservationists who value historical significance and heavy displacement comfort over modern performance. It is ideal for coastal cruisers who appreciate the craftsmanship of the late 1930s and are prepared for the specialized maintenance of a vintage vessel.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 23400.0 lb, a D/L ratio of 386.9, and a Capsize ratio of 1.49, the Luders 44 exhibits the heavy, stable characteristics necessary for safe offshore passage making. Its full/long keel and masthead yawl rig provide excellent balance and seakeeping ability, typical of serious bluewater cruisers from its era.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include other Luders designs like the Luders 39 or 41, which share the same designer's philosophy of heavy, comfortable cruising. It also shares characteristics with other 1930s-1940s full-keel yawls such as the O'Day 39 or early Catalina models, though the Luders is significantly heavier and more bespoke.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the LUDERS 44 yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 44ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
4 reported issues across 4 systems for the LUDERS 44, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a LUDERS 44? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 4 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your LUDERS 44?
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Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Westerbeke — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the LUDERS 44
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