Bill Luders

A. E. 'Bill' Luders Jr. (1905-1988) was a prominent American yacht designer and builder who founded Luders Marine Construction Company in 1908. His designs won numerous international races including America's Cup trials with Weatherly (1958) and American Eagle (1964). Luders specialized in fast racing yachts and high-quality cruisers, with notable designs including the L-16, numerous 5.5 Metres, and successful ocean racers. His Storm class became a popular one-design, and his yard built boats for designers including Olin Stephens. Luders' emphasis on quality construction and attention to detail made his yard one of America's premier yacht builders for over 70 years.