Robert Perry (sailor)

Robert Perry (born August 25, 1943) is an American yacht designer and sailor, renowned for his prolific output and successful designs in both cruising and racing sailboats. Perry is best known for his designs for Valiant Yachts, Tayana Yachts, and Passport Yachts, as well as contributions to designs for Freedom Yachts and other manufacturers.

Perry's design philosophy emphasizes seaworthiness, comfort, and performance. His boats are generally considered to be well-built, stable, and capable of handling a wide range of conditions. He is particularly recognized for his understanding of hull form and its impact on sailing characteristics.

Perry began his design career in the early 1970s after graduating from the University of Washington with a degree in naval architecture. He quickly established himself as a leading designer in the industry. His designs have been widely praised and have achieved considerable success in both offshore racing and cruising. He has designed hundreds of yachts, ranging in size from small daysailers to large ocean-going cruisers.

In addition to his design work, Perry is also a passionate sailor. He has participated in numerous offshore races and has cruised extensively. His practical experience at sea informs his design decisions and contributes to the seaworthiness of his boats. He continues to be active in the sailing community, consulting on yacht design and writing about sailing and boat design. He also maintains a blog where he discusses design principles, shares his experiences, and offers insights into the world of yachting.