Of all the notable sailing industry luminaries of the Pacific Northwest, none have had a greater influence on the world of sailing than naval architect Bob Perry. From his seminal Valiant 40 design to today’s “Carbon Cutter,” his work not only stands on its own, it has influenced cruising boat design for six decades. Over the years several aspiring designers have interned and worked with Bob and gone on to successful careers. Beyond that, his design review column in Sailing Magazine has educated and entertained since the 1970s. (Ed. Note. I had the honor of editing that column for some years) Still very much an active designer, Bob can also occasionally can be coaxed out of his “Shack” on the water to speak to groups, never failing to entertain. If you doubt that, listen to his acceptance speech, below.
Bob was just inducted into the National Sailing Hall of Fame. It’s a well-deserved honor. Here’s the video of his acceptance:
Kurt grew up racing and cruising in the Midwest, and has raced Lasers since the late 1970s. Currently he is a broker at Swiftsure Yachts. He has been Assistant Editor at Sailing Magazine and a short stint as Editor of Northwest Yachting. Through Meadow Point Publishing he handles various marketing duties for smaller local companies. He currently is partners on a C&C 36 which he cruises throughout the Northwest. He’s married to the amazing Abby and is father to Ian and Gabe.