Kaufman 41

Description

The Kaufman 41 is a performance-oriented cruiser-racer designed by Ted Kaufman (F. Michael Kaufman or Ted Kaufman, often in early partnership with Bob Miller/Ben Lexcen influences for some Australian variants) and built custom or semi-custom in limited numbers (likely a handful of hulls, primarily in Australia by Quilkey Brothers or similar small yards in the late 1960s–1970s, with some US or other builds). It emphasizes spacious accommodations, excellent seakeeping, and strong offshore capability, with a generous sail plan for good performance in varied conditions—often described as a substantial yacht suitable for racing (e.g., Sydney-Hobart, Admiral's Cup contenders) or extended cruising. Notable examples include "Koomooloo" (1968 timber sloop, restored and raced in events like Rolex Sydney Hobart) and "Mercedes IV" (a related Kaufman 41 racer/cruiser). Construction typically uses timber (wood) for classic builds, with a sloop rig and features like varnished hulls for aesthetics and visibility. Production was low and scattered (custom-focused, not mass-produced), with surviving boats rare but cherished as classics (some restored after losses or incidents, like the 2006 Sydney-Hobart sinking of one).