Luders 36 (Cheoy Lee) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The journey of the Luders 36 began in 1966, with Cheoy Lee Shipyard launching approximately 65 units of this model until production concluded in 1978. A.E. Bill Luders Jr., known for his belief in scientific research and tank-testing to create efficient and fast yacht designs, applied his expertise to the Luders 36, aiming for a vessel that balanced performance with the demands of cruising.

During this period, Cheoy Lee Shipyard was undergoing a significant evolution, strategically relocating its operations to Hong Kong and pioneering the extensive use of fiberglass (GRP) and foam sandwich technology in marine construction. This innovative approach resulted in vessels known for their robust and reliable build, a hallmark of Cheoy Lee's ethos that is evident in the Luders 36's durable hull construction. The Luders 36 was offered with various rigging options, including a masthead sloop, yawl, or ketch rig, with the latter two often featuring a bowsprit, providing owners with flexibility in sail plan.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cheoy Lee Luders 36 is characterized by its ultra-heavy displacement and traditional long-keel hull form, attributes that significantly define its sailing performance and handling. With a displacement of 15,000 pounds over its 25-foot waterline, the boat boasts a very high displacement-to-length ratio, indicating a robust and substantial cruiser designed for comfort and stability rather than outright speed. The sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.69 suggests that while capable, she is not optimized for light-air performance, preferring more wind to get underway efficiently.

However, the generous ballast-to-displacement ratio of about 0.40 provides excellent stiffness and stability, enabling the Luders 36 to stand up to a breeze and offer a comfortable motion in a seaway. Owners and reviewers often describe the Luders 36 as a vessel that appeals to seasoned sailors who appreciate its traditional design and handling characteristics. While older full-keeled designs, like the Luders 36, are known for their strong directional stability, some anecdotes suggest they may exhibit less than ideal handling characteristics, particularly in heavy weather or tight maneuvering situations, due to their large wetted surface and attached rudder.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior details can vary between individual vessels due to owner modifications and the production variations, the Cheoy Lee Luders 36 typically features a traditional cruising layout designed for comfort and practicality on extended voyages. Its interior layout is often described as being very similar to that of the Cheoy Lee Clipper 36, another Luders design. Generally, the accommodations include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, a galley, and a head compartment. Given its era of construction, interior finishes typically featured abundant use of wood trim, lending a warm and classic nautical ambiance. Storage is generally ample for a vessel of its size, a common attribute of traditional cruisers. Specific headroom figures are not consistently available, but the design is geared towards comfortable living below decks.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cheoy Lee Luders 36 consistently praise the boat for its exceptionally solid construction. The hull is often noted for being constructed from a thick, one-inch layer of solid fiberglass, contributing to its reputation as being "built like a tank." This robust build contributes to the vessel's seaworthiness and enduring appeal as a reliable cruiser. The boat is widely recognized for its good looks and solid sailing qualities, a point frequently highlighted by its admirers.

However, as with many vessels of its age, certain maintenance considerations are commonly cited by owners. A recurring topic pertains to the original deck construction, which often involved teak planks. While beautiful, these decks can be a source of maintenance, with some owners undertaking significant refit projects to address potential issues or opting for complete replacement. Despite these potential projects, the underlying robust construction ensures that well-maintained Luders 36 models remain highly regarded in the used boat market.