Pearson 22 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Pearson 22 emerged in 1968, marking a period of sustained growth for Pearson Yachts, which had established itself as a leader in fiberglass production under the ownership of Grumman Allied Industries. The company, founded by cousins Clinton and Everett Pearson, was known for its innovative designs and commitment to making sailing widely accessible. With William Shaw as the Director of Design and Engineering (later Chief Naval Architect), Pearson's design philosophy evolved, moving towards modern configurations like fin keels and spade rudders to enhance performance and maneuverability. The Pearson 22, produced until 1972, reflects this evolution, designed by Shaw as a dedicated racer-cruiser. It was conceived to be a high-performance, smooth-handling, and beautifully balanced vessel, distinguishing itself from other 22-foot models of the era, such as the Pearson Ensign.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Pearson 22, with a length overall of just over 22 feet and a waterline length of 18.5 feet, boasts performance characteristics that belie its size. Its calculated sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 18.93 suggests that the boat is well-powered, indicating good light-air performance and a lively feel on the water. The ballast to displacement ratio, around 0.385, points to a decent level of stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a reasonable breeze, an important trait for a racer-cruiser. Furthermore, its displacement to length ratio of approximately 183.25 classifies it as a relatively light and performance-oriented design for its class, rather than a heavy, traditional cruiser.

Equipped with a fin keel and spade rudder, a hallmark of William Shaw's more modern design approach, the Pearson 22 offers excellent maneuverability and responsiveness. Anecdotal descriptions from enthusiasts consistently praise its handling, balance, and spirited performance, reinforcing its "Seagoing Sportscar" moniker. With a theoretical hull speed of 5.76 knots, the Pearson 22 is designed to be an active and engaging boat for sailors.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its primary role as a racer-cruiser and trailerable sailboat, the Pearson 22's interior accommodations are designed for efficiency and function within its compact hull. While specific detailed interior layouts are not extensively documented in widely available resources, a boat of this size and era typically features a basic, open-plan cabin suitable for weekend excursions. This would generally include a V-berth forward, serving as a sleeping area, and a small main salon with opposing settees that might double as additional berths. A basic galley area, potentially with a small sink and space for a portable stove, and limited storage are usually incorporated. Headroom is generally constrained on boats of this length, and the Pearson 22, like many in its class, would offer modest standing room, if any, often only beneath a companionway hatch. The emphasis is on maximizing usable space for essential functions, prioritizing sailing performance over extensive creature comforts.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Pearson 22 frequently highlight its positive sailing characteristics. The description of it as a "high performance, smooth handling, beautifully balanced design" resonates with many who have sailed the boat. This collective sentiment suggests that the Pearson 22 delivers on its promise of being a fun and engaging vessel, suitable for both spirited racing and comfortable coastal cruising. While discussions about Pearson boats often cover various models, specific recurring weaknesses or widespread common problems particular to the Pearson 22 itself are not prominently featured in common owner forums or reviews, pointing to a generally robust and well-regarded design within its niche. The enduring community interest in Pearson Yachts, as evidenced by owner associations and online forums, further underscores the lasting appeal and solid construction of models like the Pearson 22.