Pearson 23 C Information, Review, Specs

The Pearson 23 C was introduced in 1983 and remained in production until 1985. Designed by William Shaw, the boat was a specialized variant of the Pearson 23, which itself was conceived as a trailerable cruiser in 1978. Shaw’s design philosophy for cruising boats leaned towards simplicity, a principle clearly reflected in the 23 C's unstayed cat rig. This rigging choice was intentional, aimed at reducing complexity and making the boat easy to sail, even for those venturing out alone. The Pearson 23 C was offered with a fin keel, providing a draft of 4.0 feet, and some versions of the Pearson 23 were also available with a keel/centerboard configuration. Pearson Yachts, under Grumman's ownership during this era, maintained a reputation for sturdy fiberglass construction, utilizing solid fiberglass for the hull and balsa coring for the deck, contributing to the boat's durability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Pearson 23 C is characterized by its "swift" and "simple" sailing characteristics, largely due to its unstayed cat rig. This single, powerful, self-tacking sail allows for quick setup and easy departure, making it particularly suitable for single-handed sailing. Owners frequently describe the boat as "solid and easy to sail." With a hull speed of approximately 5.99 knots, the Pearson 23 C offers respectable performance for a boat of its size and purpose. The cockpit is notably spacious for a 23-foot vessel, measuring 6 feet 9 inches in length, and provides ample room for up to four adults, making it well-suited for day sailing.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Pearson 23 C, while functional, reflects its compact size and cruiser-oriented design. Headroom is limited, as is common in trailerable sailboats of this length. The interior typically features basic amenities suitable for overnighting, comfortably accommodating a couple, possibly with a small child. While specific interior layouts vary, these boats generally provide a V-berth forward, a compact salon area, and basic provisions for a galley and head. The construction utilizes solid fiberglass for the hull and a balsa-cored fiberglass deck, typical of Pearson's build methods during this period. An elevated companionway helps prevent water intrusion into the cabin.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Pearson 23 C and similar vintage Pearson models often praise their solid construction and ease of handling. The spacious cockpit is a frequently highlighted strength, offering comfortable day sailing for multiple people. However, some common issues noted across Pearson yachts from the 1980s include the potential for soft decks, which is a consideration for prospective buyers. Additionally, some owners have reported that the original traveler cleats can be positioned too low, making them difficult to operate effectively.