pearson 36 sailboat data

Pearson 36 2

The pearson 36 2 is a 36.5ft masthead sloop designed by william shaw and built in fiberglass by pearson yachts between 1984 and 1990..

The Pearson 36 2 is a moderate weight sailboat which is a reasonably good performer. It is stable / stiff and has a low righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a coastal cruiser. The fuel capacity is originally small. There is a good water supply range.

Pearson 36 2 for sale elsewhere on the web:

Main features

Model	Pearson 36 2
Length	36.50 ft
Beam	12.33 ft
Draft	6.50 ft
Country	United states (North America)
Estimated price	$ 0		??

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Sail area / displ.	17.56
Ballast / displ.	38.67 %
Displ. / length	258.73
Comfort ratio	25.81
Capsize	2

Hull type	Monohull fin keel with spade rudder
Construction	Fiberglass
Waterline length	29.58 ft
Maximum draft	6.50 ft
Displacement	15000 lbs
Ballast	5800 lbs
Hull speed	7.29 knots

We help you build your own hydraulic steering system - Lecomble & Schmitt

Rigging	Masthead Sloop
Sail area (100%)	665 sq.ft
Air draft	52 ft
Sail area fore	362.67 sq.ft
Sail area main	297.25 sq.ft
I	47.10 ft
J	15.40 ft
P	41 ft
E	14.50 ft

Nb engines	1
Total power	30 HP
Fuel capacity	22 gals

Accommodations

Water capacity	100 gals
Headroom	0 ft
Nb of cabins	0
Nb of berths	0
Nb heads	0

Builder data

Builder	Pearson Yachts
Designer	William Shaw
First built	1984
Last built	1990
Number built	0		??

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Pearson 36 Boat Review

Posted by Ed Lawrence | Boat Reviews , Reviews

This 1970s family cruiser offers a fair turn of speed

Bill Shaw was a graduate of the U.S. Maritime Academy at King’s Point and a student at the Westlawn School of Yacht Design. Afterward, he worked 11 years for the prestigious firm of Sparkman & Stephens, where chief designer Al Mason gave him a key role in the development of the Nevins 40 (1954) and the Tartan 27 (1960). His move to Pearson Yachts in 1964 was the beginning of a long relationship.

Bill thrived in Grumman’s corporate environment, becoming both general manager and chief designer. His first boats were the Coaster and Wanderer (1966) and the Renegade (1967), the first Pearson with the rudder detached from the keel. Our review boat , the Pearson 36, came along five years later. It was in production from 1972 to 1976, numbering 103 units. The base price in 1975 was $29,500.

In Bill’s words, “The boat was designed as a performance-oriented cruiser also designed for the race course” in what he described (in those days) as “a world of beamy cruisers and pipe-berth ‘tonners’ ” that left buyers with the choice of going slow comfortably or less slow uncomfortably.

A Comfortable Cockpit

The result is a fast 36-footer that provides crew with comfortable accommodations in the cockpit and down below. The design features a high-aspect-ratio masthead rig that represents the shift from the CCA rule to the IOR era. A tall-rig version was available.

The overhangs are moderate, with a raked stem and fairly broad (by IOR standards) counter transom. Also typical of the IOR are narrow ends. The resulting lack of deck space at the bow is an inconvenience for those using these boats as cruisers.

The hull is nicely proportioned with an overall length of 36 feet 6¾ inches This 1970s family cruiser offers a fair turn of speed by Ed Lawrence Boat review Pearson 36 and a waterline length of 29 feet 2 inches. Sail area is 601 square feet, with only 260 square feet in the mainsail, meaning that large headsails will require some effort if they are to be trimmed tight in a stiff breeze. The sail-area-to-displacement ratio of 17 and the displacement-towaterline- length ratio of 243 are about right for a cruiser with better-than-average performance. ( Note: These numbers may have varied a bit over time, of course, but those were the original specifications. –Eds. )

So, while Bill Shaw paid his respects to the IOR, the 36 was more of a dual-purpose family boat. That was, in fact, the overall design philosophy of Pearson Yachts throughout its history.

The hull is solid fiberglass with integrally bonded bulkheads and the deck is cored with end-grain balsa. Water tanks are made of fiberglass, the fuel tank is fashioned from Monel. The external ballast is lead, and the rudder is hung on a skeg.

Wheel Location

I’d been aboard for at least 11 seconds when I noticed that the wheel is located far forward in the cockpit, a big difference from most boats. It was a welcome sight.

Most wheels are located well aft to enhance crew comfort (such as protection under the dodger), allowing the crew to work winches forward in the cockpit, and relegating the helmsman to a seat at the stern. On many boats, the mainsheet traveler is mounted on the bridge deck, so it is more or less out of the way as well. But this arrangement results in mid-boom sheeting which requires a heavier boom.

On the Pearson 36, the boom is only 12 feet 10 inches, so the mainsheet is attached to the end of the boom. The result: a mainsheet and traveler that can be managed from the helm position. It’s great for singlehanding. And whenever there is crew, the jib and spinnaker trimmers are aft, out of the helmsman’s way, an important consideration when changing course or jibing a spinnaker. A minor downside is that the mainsheet, when on centerline, interferes with companionway access.

While underway during our test sail, the cockpit proved to be large enough for six adults and a child. One can relax against the high-sided coamings and stretch out comfortably. Our review boat has old-fashioned cockpit lockers in which loads of sails and gear can be stowed. In the original manufacturer’s configuration, however, the quarter berth housing took up a lot of the starboard locker.

Accommodations

The 36’s interior is well-organized and nicely appointed. Heading below is as simple as stepping onto the top companionway step, which measures 20 by 18 inches. That dimension is noteworthy because it provides a convenient perch on which the night watch can scan the horizon without getting too wet or cold. What’s more, this step can be raised to gain access to the top of the engine.

The 11-foot 1-inch beam produces a wealth of space belowdecks coupled with the 6-foot 4-inch headroom. The saloon measures 9 feet on centerline, allowing two people to stand shoulder to- shoulder without feeling as if they’re packed in on a crowded subway ride. The galley and a settee are to starboard; to port is a nav station and second settee.

On our review boat, the table folds out of the way on the bulkhead, freeing space and allowing the settees to slide out and convert to berths. Both berths are more than 6 feet long. A pilot berth to starboard will be popular on a long passage, since sleeping amidships is like being on the pivot point of a teeter-totter. On this boat, its opposite space to port is occupied by a bookshelf and two cabinets. Some Pearson 36s have an additional pilot berth to port.

The large area devoted to the saloon unfortunately subtracts space from the forward cabin. The V-berth is long enough and wide enough for a couple, but with the door is closed there’s precious little room for dressing.

The navigation station sports a 25- by 30-inch chart table, just right for folded NOAA charts.

The L-shaped galley in our review boat is fitted with an Adler-Barbour 12-volt ColdMachine refrigerator and two-burner Optimus stove/oven. However, Bill Shaw sneakily threw a curveball when he placed a cupboard door under the sink, giving the impression of accessible storage space there. In fact, the door provides access to the fuel and water filters on the starboard side of the engine, though only a gnome will be comfortable working on that side of the engine.

The 11-foot beam makes for a spacious saloon with pull-out settee, a large table, and pilot berth to starboard centrally located for sleeping when the boat is underway. The settee berths are more than 6 feet long. The table folds up against the main bulkhead. The galley is aft in the starboard quarter. The top companionway step makes a good seat for keeping watch on a cold night.

Also of note is the wet locker to port of the companionway. Although small, it is vented to the engine compartment so wet things will dry.

The head is a small compartment crammed with a toilet, a vanity with a small sink, and a shower.

Pearson 36 Performance

The first thing I noticed during a test sail on Puget Sound was that the Pearson 36 motors at 7 knots with the diesel turning at 1,800 rpm — pretty snappy performance. Theoretical hull speed is 7.29 knots. The original engine was a 30-hp gasoline Atomic 4 .

With a full-battened mainsail and an aging genoa, our test boat sailed to weather in 9 to 11 knots of breeze making 6.5 to 7.6 knots, impressive performance for a cruising sailboat. She covered the bottom at about the same speed when we eased sheets and sailed on a broad reach. She’s a tad on the tender side, but once heeled to 20 degrees she buried her shoulder and forged ahead.

Replacing the three-bladed prop with a folding prop should add at least half a knot.

The Pearson 36 carries a PHRF rating of between 135 and 158, depending on the fleet. Rating for the largest fleet, on Narragansett Bay, is 141. For comparison, a Ranger One Ton and an Irwin Competition 37 of the same year rate 120 and 123 respectively.

When shopping for a Pearson 36, be advised that Pearson built a number of 36-foot sailboats before it disappeared from the scene. The first of the 36s is very different from those that followed. The original 36s were built between 1972 and 1976. The next boat, the Pearson 36-2, was in production from 1985 to 1990. (This one is shown on the cover.) Other variants, all designed by Bill Shaw over the years, are the popular Pearson 365 (a ketch), the Person 367 (a cutter), and the Pearson 36 Pilot House. All of these 36-footers are well-loved and actively sought after sailboats.

What I can say for certain is that the Pearson 36 is a well-built, moderate interpretation of the IOR that still looks good and sails well today.

About The Author

Ed Lawrence

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Pearson 36-2 - Sailboat Data, Parts & Rigging

Sailboat data, rig dimensions and recommended sail areas for Pearson 36-2 sailboat. Tech info about rigging, halyards, sheets, mainsail covers and more.

Sailboat Data directory for over 8,000 sailboat designs and manufacturers. Direct access to halyards lengths, recommended sail areas, mainsail cover styles, standing rigging fittings, and lots more for all cruising and racing sailboats.

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I've decided to update my Pearson 36-2, a fine example of a classic New England production sailboat. I've had this boat for a little over five seasons and she is in fine condition, with continuing system upgrades.

She is an excellent family boat or can be sailed short handed. Pearson Yachts built her in 1985 as a time tested Bill Shaw design, with her cousins the J boat production line next door in Warren RI. The P36-2 is designed to have practical cruising interior, modern hull form and modified fin keel. Performance sailing and cruising come together in this truly iconic production boat design.

Please check her specifications page and view the boat's images on the picture pages. She is presently located on a mooring close to the Cape Cod Canal on Cape Cod.

Here we see Kinsale in Natucket Sound

Kinsale sailing in Figawi

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• Sailboat Guide

Pearson 36 Cutter

Pearson 36 Cutter is a 36 ′ 5 ″ / 11.1 m monohull sailboat designed by William Shaw and built by Pearson Yachts between 1981 and 1983.

• 15 / 62 Placida, FL, US 1980 Pearson 36 Cutter $42,000 USD View
• 16 / 62 De Tour Village, MI, US 1976 Pearson 36 Cutter $29,500 USD View
• 17 / 62 Dennis, NJ, US 1974 Pearson 36 Cutter $1,950 USD View
• 18 / 62 Ithaca, NY, US 1935 Pearson 36 Cutter $30,000 USD View
• 19 / 62 Aransas Pass, TX, US 1985 Pearson 36 Cutter $59,500 USD View
• 20 / 62 Dennis, NJ, US 1974 Pearson 36 Cutter $1,950 USD View
• 21 / 62 Placida, FL, US 1980 Pearson 36 Cutter $42,000 USD View
• 22 / 62 De Tour Village, MI, US 1976 Pearson 36 Cutter $29,500 USD View
• 23 / 62 Ithaca, NY, US 1935 Pearson 36 Cutter $30,000 USD View
• 24 / 62 Aransas Pass, TX, US 1985 Pearson 36 Cutter $59,500 USD View
• 25 / 62 Placida, FL, US 1980 Pearson 36 Cutter $42,000 USD View
• 26 / 62 De Tour Village, MI, US 1976 Pearson 36 Cutter $29,500 USD View
• 27 / 62 Aransas Pass, TX, US 1985 Pearson 36 Cutter $59,500 USD View
• 28 / 62 De Tour Village, MI, US 1976 Pearson 36 Cutter $29,500 USD View
• 29 / 62 Dennis, NJ, US 1974 Pearson 36 Cutter $1,950 USD View
• 30 / 62 Ithaca, NY, US 1935 Pearson 36 Cutter $30,000 USD View
• 31 / 62 De Tour Village, MI, US 1976 Pearson 36 Cutter $29,500 USD View
• 32 / 62 Dennis, NJ, US 1974 Pearson 36 Cutter $1,950 USD View
• 33 / 62 Ithaca, NY, US 1935 Pearson 36 Cutter $30,000 USD View
• 34 / 62 Aransas Pass, TX, US 1985 Pearson 36 Cutter $59,500 USD View
• 35 / 62 De Tour Village, MI, US 1976 Pearson 36 Cutter $29,500 USD View
• 36 / 62 Dennis, NJ, US 1974 Pearson 36 Cutter $1,950 USD View
• 37 / 62 Dennis, NJ, US 1974 Pearson 36 Cutter $1,950 USD View
• 38 / 62 Dennis, NJ, US 1974 Pearson 36 Cutter $1,950 USD View
• 39 / 62 Aransas Pass, TX, US 1985 Pearson 36 Cutter $59,500 USD View
• 40 / 62 De Tour Village, MI, US 1976 Pearson 36 Cutter $29,500 USD View
• 41 / 62 Dennis, NJ, US 1974 Pearson 36 Cutter $1,950 USD View
• 42 / 62 Aransas Pass, TX, US 1985 Pearson 36 Cutter $59,500 USD View
• 43 / 62 De Tour Village, MI, US 1976 Pearson 36 Cutter $29,500 USD View
• 44 / 62 Dennis, NJ, US 1974 Pearson 36 Cutter $1,950 USD View
• 45 / 62 Aransas Pass, TX, US 1985 Pearson 36 Cutter $59,500 USD View
• 46 / 62 De Tour Village, MI, US 1976 Pearson 36 Cutter $29,500 USD View
• 47 / 62 Dennis, NJ, US 1974 Pearson 36 Cutter $1,950 USD View
• 48 / 62 Aransas Pass, TX, US 1985 Pearson 36 Cutter $59,500 USD View
• 49 / 62 De Tour Village, MI, US 1976 Pearson 36 Cutter $29,500 USD View
• 50 / 62 Dennis, NJ, US 1974 Pearson 36 Cutter $1,950 USD View
• 51 / 62 Aransas Pass, TX, US 1985 Pearson 36 Cutter $59,500 USD View
• 52 / 62 De Tour Village, MI, US 1976 Pearson 36 Cutter $29,500 USD View
• 53 / 62 Aransas Pass, TX, US 1985 Pearson 36 Cutter $59,500 USD View
• 54 / 62 De Tour Village, MI, US 1976 Pearson 36 Cutter $29,500 USD View
• 55 / 62 Aransas Pass, TX, US 1985 Pearson 36 Cutter $59,500 USD View
• 56 / 62 De Tour Village, MI, US 1976 Pearson 36 Cutter $29,500 USD View
• 57 / 62 Aransas Pass, TX, US 1985 Pearson 36 Cutter $59,500 USD View
• 58 / 62 De Tour Village, MI, US 1976 Pearson 36 Cutter $29,500 USD View
• 59 / 62 Aransas Pass, TX, US 1985 Pearson 36 Cutter $59,500 USD View
• 60 / 62 Aransas Pass, TX, US 1985 Pearson 36 Cutter $59,500 USD View
• 61 / 62 Aransas Pass, TX, US 1985 Pearson 36 Cutter $59,500 USD View
• 62 / 62 Aransas Pass, TX, US 1985 Pearson 36 Cutter $59,500 USD View

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

From BlueWaterBoats.org :

The Pearson 36 Cutter, also commonly known as the Pearson 367, is a variation on one of Pearson’s most popular boats – the Pearson 365 which was originally conceived as a coastal cruiser. Only 49 were produced between the years of 1981 and 1982. With its sturdy construction, layout, and seaworthiness the boat became a popular bluewater cruiser with hundreds of thousands of miles logged. Today they can be found almost anywhere in the world and garner a loyal following. The boat is forgiving to sail, easily handled by a couple, while having enough accommodation and storage for a family of four.

The original Pearson 365 proved a hit from the very beginning, when it launched in 1976 Pearson had signed up 23 boats in pre-sales. Over the years of production, which spanned to 1983, the Pearson 365 was delivered in three configurations – ketch, sloop, and pilothouse. These were “thin water boats” drawing only four feet five inches with modified full keels and large skeg-hung rudders.

In his 1978 book, The Proper Yacht , Arthur Beiser wrote:

“The Pearson 365 is an exceptionally well-conceived cruising ketch of moderate size.” He went on to say. “One of the few intelligently planned production cruising boats on the market, the 365 owes nothing to the antic fancies of the IOR, to the downwind fliers of the Transpacific Race, to the floating dormitories of the boat shows, to the pilot cutter of the Bristol Channel, or the sailing tugboats of the Lofoten Island. A true revolutionary for someone in his business, Mr. Shaw provided the 365 with accommodations for just five people and the rest of the space is a fine galley, a chart table, a stall shower, and stowage, fuel, and water in more than reasonable amounts for the size of the boat.” In his closing remarks Arthur commented on the choice of sail plan, “Perhaps a cutter rig would have been better, or longer ends to permit more sail area with taller masts without increasing the aspect ratios. On the other hand, more sail in a taller rig, whether cutter or ketch, might require deeper draft, which would be sad since a boat drawing 4 1/2 feet can go practically anywhere. So the 365 represents a compromise, but a sound one, and I am sure she will provide happy cruising on her for her owners and guests.”

Only three years later the Pearson 36 Cutter was introduced to try and capture more of the bluewater boat market. The underbody was modified to include a longer skeg-hung rudder and deeper fin keel drawing five feet six inches. Additionally the new cutter rig, taller and set approximately 18 inches further aft, made room for the staysail and increased the fore triangle by 13%.

The boat proved to be a very capable ocean cruiser, pointing high, with a nice motion and great handling in a variety of sea conditions. Unfortunately from the early to late 1980’s Pearson suffered financially and was sold off when its parent, Grumman, went bankrupt in 1991.

Configuration and Construction

Displacing 17,700 pounds and carrying only 599 square feet of sail area the Pearson 36 Cutter might be considered an under powered boat by today’s standards. The boat at 36.5 feet on deck plus a 30 inch anchor platform has 30 feet of waterline and a small overhang and pleasant shear displays a the look of a classic sailing vessel. The 11.5 foot beam provides a comfortable cruiser with ample storage and space for its owner and family to enjoy week long cruises or for a couple to enjoy an extended cruise.

The large 8 foot cockpit is large enough to comfortably entertain 6 adults yet small enough to withstand a significant poop. Seating is provided on all four sides with high coaming forming nice back rests. The companion way is offset to starboard and protected by a nice size bridge deck which reduces the cockpit volume. Sturdy drop boards are standard along with a heavy sliding hatch that is protected by large sea hood.

The foot well is narrow enough to provide good footing when heeling yet large enough to enjoy a meal at anchor. Two large drains forward in the cockpit well allow water to drain easily. However, the addition of two aft drains would improve the drainage in rougher seas.

The decks are uncluttered and wide enough to easily move around on under all weather conditions. Molded bulwarks provide safe footing. Four large scuppers drain green water quickly along with the high cockpit coaming which sheds water around the cockpit and overboard in roughest seas.

Hand rails run the length of the cabin along with double lifelines provide safe and easy movement about the deck for sail management. All lines are run to the mast for ease of control.

Pearson’s construction quality is considered a cut above most production boats of its day and this boat is no exception. The hull is a sturdy hand-laid-up fiberglass strong enough to handle the rigors of coastal and offshore sailing. The 7,300 pound lead ballasted fin keel is well encapsulated and should stand all but the most sever grounding while the rudder is well protected by its skeg and provides adequate control.

Like other Pearson sailboats, the boat is built utilizing a liner, tabbed in place along with a solid bulkhead separating the cabin from the engine compartment. The liner provides some insulation but may complicate repairs as well tracking and repairing leaks.

The hull is solid glass while the deck and coach roof are sandwiched balsa wood. The deck-to-hull joint is an inward flanged screwed and glued together with what appears to be a thickened epoxy adhesive. The bow is well built giving owners a sense of confidence and safety should a collision occur.

While the joinery and finish belowdecks in the 365 and other Pearson boats were considered plain and average at best, often made of Formica wood grain over marine plywood, the 36 Cutter’s interior is nicely done in teak with teak and holly sole throughout. Workmanship and quality throughout the boat is above average for production boats of the time.

The layout of the Pearson 36 Cutter is a classic layout used since the days of wooden boats with a U-shaped galley to port at the bottom of the stairs and navigation station to port leading to two 7-foot settees port and starboard. Forward is a dry hanging locker to port and large head to starboard. The V-berth or owners cabin is comfortable with ample storage as well as access to the small forepeak which stores the anchor rode.

The galley includes a deep double sink, three burner propane stove and oven, storage, and a large 11.2 cubic foot ice box. The sink is fed by both pressurized and manual foot pump fresh water. Handholds are plentiful and well placed making food preparation possible while underway.

Opposite the galley is a functional nav-station with a hanging wet locker. A fold-out stool provides seating while working at the navigation station but is not that comfortable in rough seas. Pearson offered an optional configuration which included a rotated navigation station and a quarter berth. Boats configured with this option are very desirable but limited and difficult to come by.

The saloon is has two 7-foot settees port and starboard that make nice sea berths with the addition of lee cloths. The starboard settee pulls out to form a double berth. Under the settees lives two of the three 50 gallon fresh water tanks. Behind and above each settee is more storage including an alcohol cabinet with wine storage. The dinette table is mounted on the forward bulkhead and folds down to allow four adults to comfortable sit, eat, and relax. However, movement around the table is limited once fully extended. The table can be configured for either four or two. More storage can be found on the bulkhead behind the table that is easily accessible with the table down or stowed.

The large head is a traditional head with small sink and more than average storage including a dirty clothes hamper. Once you enter the head you will notice the separate shower to your right with seating and more storage. Opposite the head is more storage including a hanging locker.

The v-berth includes a 7 foot berth and more storage. The v-berth sleeps two comfortably however head room in the forward half of the v-berth is limited. Shelves on each side of the berth provide nice storage. To port and starboard – more storage. The center aft portion of the v-berth can be removed and stored making dressing and moving around the forward cabin much easier.

Under the v-berth is more storage as well as the third 50 gallon fresh water tank and a 15 gallon holding tank.

Two large sturdy Bomar hatches along with five opening ports provide nice ventilation under most conditions. The hatches can be configured to open forward or aft and are equipped with four sturdy “dogs” making them strong and secure. Four larger fixed ports provide light to the saloon, galley and nav-station. Pearson did offer as an option that o replaced the fixed ports with opening ports. Once again a rare but desirable option.

The engine which is located under the cockpit is accessed from panels below the companion way and from the cockpit sail lockers. Space around the engine is limited and accessibility is tight. Aft of the engine is a 50 gallon aluminum fuel tank.

The Pearson 36 Cutter is a forgiving boat that is suitable for both the experienced as well as those still honing their passage-making skills. The motion through the water is comfortable as expected with a motion comfort ration of 33, but as noted by some owners it can be a bit wet in rougher seas.

Configured with a larger main, 95% headsail, and small staysail she is easily balanced and sails well on all points of sail in a wide variety of conditions. Performance and comfort is best on a reach and at a heal angle of 15-20 degrees. Downwind performance is respectful and very comfortable. These boats do not point as well as more modern boats but at 40 degrees off the wind performance is respectable.

Acceleration is sluggish and light weather performance is nothing to brag about. In fact you will need 10 knots of wind or more for the boat to move nicely, but when the rest of the fleet begins to head for shelter the Pearson 36 Cutter will be just coming into its own. The boat feels a little tender at first but it stiffens nicely at 15 degrees. Sail reduction begins at 20 knots of wind with the headsail and at 25 knots and up it is time to reef in the main and rely on the staysail. The self-tending staysail combined with a double reefed main makes for an easy and safe sail combination in rougher conditions.

For many sailors the cutter rig takes a little getting accustom to sailing. While the joke is, “set the staysail and you pick up a half of a knot; put away the staysail and you will gain a half of a knot”, cutter owners, of all brands, are quick to sing the praise of the rig for a variety of conditions and on most points of sail and smile at the joke.

With all this said, it is not uncommon for owners to report consecutive 120+ mile days on passages and even an occasional 140+ mile days in comfort and safety.

Buyer Notes

Some common problem areas with the 36 cutter:

• Mast step and base of the mast – the keel stepped mast sets on a steel base plate. Prolonged exposure to standing water can result in corrosion to the steel plate and lower portion of the mast. While more common on the 365, repairs are straight forward and do not require replacement of the mast. Several vendor provide taller aluminum mast steps can be install after cutting of the lower 3-6 inches of the mast.
• Bent propeller shaft from improper lifting — this is more common with the 367 than other boats because of the long exposed shaft and narrow gap between the skeg & propeller.
• Fuel tank leaks – both the Pearson 365 and 367 fuel tanks appear to have 25 to 30 year life. Replacement of the large 50 gallon tank requires removal of the engine. A common approach avoid removing the engine is to replace the single 50 gallon tank with two (2) 25 gallon tanks that can be installed via the sail lockers. This of course requires additional plumbing but eliminates the need to remove the engine.
• Keel damage – the 36 cutter has deep sump (34 inches) in the aft portion of the keel that can be damaged if the boat is involved in a hard grounded on rock or coral.
• Leaking ports and the damage that can be caused by the leaks over time. Leaks are more likely to be associated with the fixed ports than the opening ports. This is a common problem with the boats of this period.

Links, References and Further Reading

» The Pearson P365/P367 Yacht Club Forum , owner’s information and community forum » Sailing Sea Dragon , owner’s website

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Model	Type	LOA	Draft	DISP	SA/D	Production	Designer	Links
	Sailing Dinghy	8		120/98		1958
	Full Keel | Stepped Cabin House Fractional | Yawl	28.3	4.0	6930	14.5	1959–1967 (750 + 125)	Alberg
	Centerboard | Kick-up Rudder	16.3	.6 | 3.6	575	28.5	1962–63	Alberg
	Catamaran | Fractional Rig	17		585		1960 (162)
	Full Keel | Fractional Stepped Cabin House	22.5	3.0	3000	17.5	1960–65 (350)	Alberg
	Keel/CB | Yawl	37.7	4.5 | 7.7	15000	14.8	1960–1965 (33)	Tripp
	Full Keel | Stepped Cabin House Yawl | Fractional Rig	40.8	5.7	18800	15.7	1962–1968 (150)	Rhodes
	Full Keel | Stepped Cabin House	35	5.2	12600	15.8	1961–1967	Alberg
	Cat Rig | Centerboard	12.1	5.2	286		1962	Tritt
Centerboard	15		112	1960's
	Full Keel | Fractional One-Design	22.5	3.0	3000	18.8	1962–present (1793+)	Alberg
	Full Keel | Stepped Cabin House	25.5	3.8	5120	15.3	1962–1966 (440)	Alberg
	Full Keel | Stepped Cabin House Yawl	32.5	4.5	10300	16.0/17.5	1963–1967 (404)	Rhodes
	Full Keel	20	3.5	1800	17.6	1963	Tritt
	Modified Full Keel	18		1000	32.5	1963 (50)	Tritt
	Full Keel	26	3.4	5400	16.2	1964–1967 (351)	Alberg
	Full Keel | Pilot House Ketch	44.5	5.3	28000	13.6/12.7	1965–1970	Alden
	Keel/CB | Stepped Cabin House	30.2	3.5 | 6.8	9800	14.7	1966–1971 (177)	Shaw
	Full Keel | Flush Deck	24.0	4.0	4300	18.9	1966–1968	Shaw
	Full Keel | Stepped Cabin House Yawl	29.8	4.6	9500	15.0	1966–1970	Shaw
	Fin Keel | Stepped Cabin House	27.2	4.3	6500	16.0	1967–1970 (173)	Shaw
	Fin Keel | Fractional Rig	22.3	3.5	2600	18.4	1968–1972	Shaw
	Full Keel	23.5	4.0	4300	17.3	1968–1969	Shaw
	Full Keel | Pilot House	30.3	3.5	10000	12.1	1969–1970 (few)	Shaw
	Keel/CB	35	3.8 | 7.5	13000	15.9	1968–1982 (514)	Shaw
	Modified Keel | Sloop/Yawl	42.8	6.5	21796	16.3/15.7	1968–1971	Shaw
	Fin Keel | Stepped Cabin House Weekender Package	26.1	4.0	5400	16.7	1970–1982 (2100+)	Shaw
	Fin Keel | One-Design	26.1	4.0	5200	17.2	1970–1982	Shaw
	Fin Keel | Weekender	26.1	4.0	5200	17.2	1974–1982	Shaw
	Keel/CB	32.9	4 | 7.6	10900	16.0	1970–1975	Shaw
	Keel/CB | Yawl	39.3	4.6 | 8.9	17000	16.5/18.8	1970–1977 (30)	Shaw
	Fin Keel	29.8	5.0	8,320	17.3	1971–1980 (1185)	Shaw
	Keel/CB | Center Cockpit Flush Deck	39	4.3 | 7.6	20600	15.2	1972–1973 (40)	Shaw
	Fin Keel | Tall Mast	36.5	6.0	13500	16.5/18.5	1972–1976 (103+)	Shaw
	Fin Keel | Tall Mast	33	5.9	12441	15.6/16.4	1973–1980 (236+)	Shaw
	Modified Keel | Ketch/Yawl Center Cockpit | Aft Cabin	41.8	5.3	21000	13.3	1975–1976	Shaw
	Fin Keel	28	4.5 or 5.0	7850	16.0	1975–1982	Shaw
	Centerboard | Custom	32.2	3.0 | 7.7	11643		1975 (one-off)	Shaw
	Modified Keel Sloop or Ketch	36.4	4.5	17700	14.5	1976–1982 (400+)	Shaw
	Modified Keel	32.3	4.4	12800	14.0	1976–1983 (385)	Shaw
	Fin Keel | Fractional	31	5.5	9400	16.7	1978–1981 (65)	Shaw
	Fin Keel | Keel/CB	23	2.3 | 4.0	3500	16.5	1979–1985	Shaw
	Modified Keel | Cutter Ketch | Aft Cabin	42.3	5.3	21000	15.2	1977–1985 (225)	Shaw
	Centerboard | Flush Deck Double Spreader	39.9	9.4 | 4.2	22800	16.0	1979–1981	Shaw
	Fin Keel	31.7	5.5	9400	17.0	1979–1982 (113)	Shaw
	Modified Keel | Pilothouse	36.4	4.5	17500	13.6	1979–1981 (30)	Shaw
	Fin Keel | Fractional Flush Deck	29.9	5.8	6235	21.5	1981–1983	Shaw
	Modified Keel | Cutter	36.5	5.5	17700	14.1	1981–1982 (49)	Shaw
	Modified Keel | Keel/CB Cutter | Center Cockpit Double Spreader | Yawl Aft Cabin	53.6	5.9 | 6.8	43000	13.1	1981–1985 (30)	Shaw
	Fin Keel | Double Spreader	36.9	6.5	12800	18.7	1982–1986 (42)	Shaw
	Fin Keel | Cat Rig	23	4.0	3000	16.2	1983–1985 (42)	Shaw
	Modified Keel	30.3	4.3	10400	15.3	1983–1986 (100+)	Shaw
	Fin Keel | CB Option	33.8	5.9 | 3.8-7.6	11200	17.5/17.0	1983–1986	Shaw
	Modified Keel | Cutter Center Cockpit | Aft Cabin Ketch	42.2	5.2	22000	14.7	1983–1987	Shaw
	Modified Keel | Center Cockpit Cutter | Aft Cabin	38.3	5.5	20575	13.0	1984–1986	Shaw
	Modified Keel | Cutter Tall Mast	38.3	5.5	16915	16.6	1984–1985	Shaw
	Fin Keel | Keel/CB | Wing Double Spreader | Aft Cabin	36.5	6.5 | 4.5 4.2-8.3	15000	17.4	1985–1990	Shaw
	Wing Keel | Aft Cabin	26.9	3.3	5800	16.4	1986–1991	Shaw
	Centerboard	17.9	4.1	800		1984–1985
	Daggerboard	21.3	4.7 | 1.4	1700	24.77	1984–1985
	Fin Keel | Shoal Keel	25	4.3 | 3.0	3750	17.08	1984–1985
	Fin Keel | Shoal Keel	27	5.2 | 3.1	6250	14.76	1984–1985
	Fin Keel | Aft Cabin Shoal Draft Option	28.5	4.8 | 3.5	7000	16.8/16.3	1986–1989	Shaw
	Fin Keel | CB Option Double Spreader | Aft Cabin	32.5	5.9 | 3.6-7.0	11000	16.5/15.8	1986–1991 (166)	Shaw
	Fin Keel | Keel/CB Double Spreader | Aft Cabin	39	6.9 | 4.6-8.8	17500	17.1	1986–1991	Shaw
	Fin Keel | Double Spreader Wing Option	30.8	5.6 | 4.0	10000	17.0	1987–1991 (268)	Shaw
	Fin Keel | Wing Option Solent Rig	37.4	4.7	16000	16.7	1988–1991	Shaw
	Fin Keel | Double Spreader Wing Option	34.5	4.0	11500	17.3	1989–1991	Shaw
	Fin Keel | Double Spreader Aft Cabin | Wing Option	37.5	4.8	15175	17.2	1989–1991 (21)	Shaw

Key to Sailboat Table

• Model: Pearson model name and link to line drawing.
• Type: Boat and Rig Attributes. All types are Bermuda rigged sloop, single mast with fore-and-aft sails, unless otherwise specified by Cat, Ketch, or Yawl.
• LOA: Length Over All, the maximum length of the hull, in feet, from stem to stern measuring parallel to the waterline. This does not include projections of pulpits or spars.
• Draft: Deepest extent of hull, typically bottom distance from waterline to bottom of keel.
• DISP: Displacement, the vessel's weight in pounds, calculated from the volume of water displaced by it.
• SA/D: The sail area to displacement ratio is a bench-mark to evaluate light air performance as well as heavy air conditions.
• Production: Approximate years and number produced.
• Designer: Yacht designer
• Links: Web-Page references. External sites open in new tab or window.

Specifications are approximate from Pearson Yachts.

Key to Designers

• Shaw – William H. Shaw joined Pearson Yachts in 1964 as Chief Architect, eventually running the entire Pearson Yachts Division of Grumman. During his tenure, he and his team designed over 50 different sail and power boats. Bill Shaw
• Alberg – Carl Alberg's successful career as a designer can be linked back to his partnership with Pearson Yachts and early fiberglass yacht construction. Carl Alberg
• Tripp – During the 1960s, William H. Tripp Jr. was one of America’s most successful yacht designers. Bill Tripp
• Rhodes – Philip L. Rhodes was a naval architect known for his diverse yacht designs. Philip Rhodes | Philip Rhodes Vanguard
• Tritt – Bill Tritt is a yacht builder with a keen interest in fiberglass as a material to use in boats and cars. Bill Tritt
• Alden – John G. Alden was an American naval architect and the founder of Alden Designs. John Alden

Fast Boats in Their Time

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The guy who started it all has done it again...

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Posted 2024-09-16 12:50

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1989 Pearson 31-2 Sailboat - $22,000 (New Bern, NC)

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1989 Pearson 31-2 Sailboat - boats - by owner - marine sale -...

A 1989 Pearson 31-2 is for sale in New Bern, North Carolina. Price: $22,000 Location: New Bern, North Carolina LOA (Overall Length) 30.8' LWL (Waterline Length) 25.4' Beam 10.8' Draft 5.10'...

Posted 2024-08-22 21:08

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Pearson 28 with outboard REDUCED - $3,950 (Langley)

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Pearson 28 with outboard REDUCED - boats - by owner - marine sale -...

Very solid 1977 Pearson 28 Sailboat. These boats have a great reputation and are often used on the open ocean for long journeys. The shrouds and other hardware are thicker and stronger than many...