54' Luders 1965 Auxiliary Yawl - LUDERS FOR SALE

CURRENT PRICE IS INDICATIVE; ALL SERIOUS OFFERS GRACIOUSLY INVITED.

On rare occasions a yacht of uncommon pedigree arrives on the market. Tara is one of those exceptional offerings: a bespoke racing sailboat conceived for John “Don” McNamara and drawn by the renowned Bill Luders. McNamara, an Olympic bronze medalist in the 5.5 Meter class who co-captained the 12-Meter Nefertiti and later campaigned Tara in the SORC, knew precisely what a thoroughbred needed. The result is a classic CCA-era racer-cruiser yawl that still turns heads and steals hearts, a vintage sailing yacht whose grace and authority remain undiminished.

A refined expression of 1960s CCA-rule design, Tara is equally at ease around the buoys and on passage, blending the poise of a classic racing yacht with the comfort of a capable cruiser. The versatile yawl rig makes for balanced, shorthanded sailing and lends itself to both regatta work and relaxed coastal cruising. This is a pedigree Bill Luders design—an elegant bluewater-capable performance cruiser with true heritage—offered for the connoisseur who appreciates a collector-quality, offshore-capable classic yacht.

Her current sail wardrobe reflects a racer’s mindset: a new 13 oz 105% jib, a new 10 oz 150% jib, and a new 8 oz 1705 jib, complemented by a sturdy older mainsail that is heavy, double-stitched, and still notably strong. The headstay and backstay were renewed in 1994, and overall the yacht presents as robust and quick. On deck, self-tailing winches and a coffee grinder underscore her regatta pedigree, while ongoing upgrades and fresh sails keep her competitive. Cosmetically, she will welcome a fresh coat of paint in the near future, yet she remains striking and fully ready to sail now.

As a Luders 54, her approximate 17-foot overall height makes over-the-road transport impractical. The yacht is currently lying in New London, Connecticut, with the mast and rig—featuring a new roller-furling system—stored in Mattapoisett, Massachusetts. Additional photography will be provided as it becomes available. No trailer is included in this sale.

Regarding machinery, no representation is made as to the condition of engines or auxiliary systems. Images may show the engine space and related equipment, but it is the buyer’s sole responsibility to inspect and confirm actual status. Do not assume any accessories or spare gear are included if not visible at viewing; the vessel is offered strictly as seen. Please evaluate and offer according to what is present at the time of inspection.

All particulars are presented in good faith, yet no guarantee is given or implied as to accuracy or completeness, and no warranty is made regarding the vessel’s condition. Interested buyers should independently verify details of importance. This offering is subject to prior sale, price adjustment, or withdrawal without notice. Transportation—domestic or international—can be coordinated through qualified marine shippers, with custom cradles and port delivery available upon request.

All marine assets, whether owner-held or brokered, are sold AS-IS, WHERE-IS, WITH NO WARRANTY OR GUARANTEE EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING NO WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. No verbal agreements shall modify the terms of sale.

Keywords: classic yacht, vintage sailboat, CCA racer-cruiser, yawl, racing yacht, performance cruiser, offshore yacht, bluewater cruiser, Bill Luders design, Luders 54, regatta-ready, pedigree sailing yacht, SORC heritage.