Southwind 21 (Luger) Information, Review, Specs

The Southwind 21 began production in 1967, a product of Luger Industries, an American builder known for pioneering the fiberglass kit boat concept. Founded by brothers Ren and Orm Luger, the company revolutionized marine accessibility by offering affordable, build-it-yourself kits, aligning with the post-World War II boating boom. The Southwind 21, designed by Luger Industries themselves, reflects this ethos, providing a practical and engaging pathway to boat ownership 1, 2, Builder Article.

Consistent with Luger's approach, the Southwind 21 was offered as a kit, allowing owners to customize various aspects of its finish and fit-out. Notably, the Southwind 21 featured a swing keel (also described as a retractable keel), allowing for a variable draft from a minimum of 1.82 feet to a maximum of 5.08 feet. This innovative design element enhanced its versatility, making it suitable for both shallow waters and more open sailing. The available ballast for the swing keel version was 430 pounds. It's worth noting that the Southwind model is distinct from the Luger Windward, which utilized a centerboard housed within the hull, while the Southwind's retractable keel remained entirely below the hull.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Luger Southwind 21 is characterized as a light sailboat with a design focused on performance. Its fractional sloop rig and a length overall of 20 feet contribute to its lively character on the water. Reviewers note that it possesses a "slightly more speedy hull design," suggesting a nimble and engaging sailing experience. While described as stable and stiff, it's also observed to have a low righting capability if capsized, a characteristic common to some lighter, trailerable sailboats. With a reported hull speed of 5.61 knots, the Southwind 21 offers respectable performance for a boat of its size. The swing keel design provides flexibility, allowing sailors to navigate shallower areas with the keel retracted and gain better upwind performance and stability with it extended.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact 20-foot length, the interior of the Luger Southwind 21 is designed for efficient use of space, primarily catering to overnighting and day sailing. The maximum headroom within the cabin is 4.67 feet, indicating that standing upright is generally not possible for most adults. As a kit boat, the precise interior layout and finish quality could vary significantly based on the original builder's choices and craftsmanship. However, typical arrangements for boats of this size often include a V-berth forward, a small dinette area that can convert into additional berths, and a compact galley space. Some configurations may offer basic sleeping for up to four individuals. Due to the kit-built nature, details regarding wood trim, storage, and ventilation would be dependent on the individual boat's completion, though simplicity and functionality were likely key considerations. One owner noted that in some cases, the interior could be "entirely gutted right down to the fiberglass," underscoring the level of customization possible.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Luger Southwind 21s often express pride in their self-built vessels, a common sentiment among those who completed Luger kits. While specific forums and widespread reviews detailing common issues are less prevalent than for mass-produced boats, general characteristics emerge. The boat is typically regarded as a "high performer" for its size, offering an enjoyable sailing experience. However, one notable aspect often discussed is its "low righting capability if capsized," which owners should be mindful of, particularly in challenging conditions. Anecdotal accounts suggest that careful attention to rigging and sail sizing is important, with at least one owner noting that the mainsail might sometimes seem "too big for the boat" if not properly matched or managed. The enduring presence of these boats, especially in the Midwestern United States, speaks to the dedication of their builders and the lasting quality of the kits provided by Luger Industries.