Windward 21 (Luger) Information, Review, Specs

The Windward 21 emerged during a transformative period for Luger Industries, a company founded by Ren and Orm Luger in Burnsville, Minnesota, which had revolutionized the marine industry by offering boat kits. Production of the Windward 21 began in 1964 and continued until 1987, aligning with the company's operational years. The Luger brothers' core vision was to make boat ownership attainable, and the Windward 21 was a testament to this philosophy, following the company's innovation in developing the first fiberglass kit boat in 1959. This model was designed to be built by amateur enthusiasts, making fiberglass construction more accessible and affordable. The Windward 21 features a swing keel, allowing for variable draft between 0.5 feet and 4.0 feet, which significantly enhances its versatility for navigating both shallow inland waterways and deeper coastal areas, and even facilitates beaching. Some accounts suggest the Windward 21 is based on "Seaside Bateaux," traditional working craft from Maryland's Atlantic coast, hinting at a design philosophy rooted in practicality and seaworthiness. It is also noted as a centerboard design with the centerboard housed inside the hull, possibly representing an earlier iteration or variant of the Luger 21-foot line, predating models like the Southwind.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a fractional sloop with an overall length of 21 feet and a waterline length of 19.5 feet, the Windward 21 is designed for straightforward and enjoyable sailing. The fractional rig, which typically features smaller headsails, simplifies tacking, making the boat easier to manage, particularly for those new to sailing or single-handing. With a hull speed of 5.92 knots, she is capable of respectable performance for a cruiser of her size and era. The swing keel is a defining feature, providing not only shoal-draft capabilities but also contributing to stability when lowered, allowing the Windward 21 to stand up to a breeze effectively. This design choice makes the boat highly adaptable, suitable for exploring diverse cruising grounds from lakes and rivers to coastal bays.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Luger Windward 21 are not extensively documented, its design as a 21-foot monohull kit boat suggests a practical and functional interior typical of small cruisers of its time. Given that the boat was sold in kit form, the finish quality and exact layout could vary significantly based on the original builder's skill and choices. Generally, one would expect a basic cuddy cabin arrangement, offering sleeping accommodations for a few individuals, likely in the form of a V-berth forward and perhaps two quarter berths in the main cabin area. Headroom would be limited, consistent with boats of this size. Storage would be modest, consisting of lockers under bunks. The focus of the interior would have been on providing essential shelter and a place to rest, rather than extensive amenities, aligning with the boat's purpose as an accessible weekender or coastal explorer.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Luger boats, including the Windward 21, often express a unique sense of pride derived from the self-built nature of their vessels. The affordability of the kit boat concept made ownership attainable for many, fostering a strong community of enthusiasts who share knowledge and resources related to these classic kits. While comprehensive owner reviews specifically for the Windward 21 are not widely aggregated, discussions on forums for Luger 21-foot models suggest that owners appreciate the fundamental design and the opportunity to customize and maintain their boats. The enduring presence of many Luger kit boats on the water today, particularly in the Midwestern USA, serves as a testament to the durability of the fiberglass construction and the dedication of their original builders. This legacy highlights not just the boats themselves, but the spirit of self-reliance and the widespread accessibility to the boating lifestyle that Luger Industries championed.