Pearson 27 Information, Review, Specs

The Pearson 27 was launched in 1986, continuing in production until 1991. During this era, Pearson Yachts, though having undergone changes in ownership, maintained its strong reputation for building reliable and well-engineered fiberglass sailboats, cementing its status as a high-production builder of recreational yachts. The design philosophy behind the Pearson 27, led by William Shaw, centered on creating a remarkably spacious and innovative interior for a boat of its size. This was achieved partly by rethinking traditional accommodation plans and notably by moving the head aft, which significantly opened up the main cabin. The boat features a masthead sloop rig and a wing keel, a design choice that provides a shallow draft, enhancing its versatility for various cruising grounds. While some brokers referred to later models as the "Pearson 27-2" following its 1987 introduction, the core design remained consistent as a single, well-defined production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just under 27 feet (26.92 ft) and a waterline length of 22.5 feet, the Pearson 27 offers a balanced performance profile. Its sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.53 suggests a moderate performer, capable of handling a range of conditions, with performance potentially improving as wind speeds increase. A ballast to displacement ratio of about 0.375 indicates a good level of stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to wind. Furthermore, its displacement to length ratio of roughly 227.3 classifies it as a moderately heavy displacement vessel for its size, contributing to a comfortable motion in a seaway, suitable for cruising. Owners frequently describe the Pearson 27 as "fast and stiff" due to its generous sail plan, long waterline, and wide beam. It is widely reported to balance well, with owners noting its ability to handle more wind than they might expect. The boat generally feels and sails much like a larger vessel, yet remains comfortable and easy to handle for coastal and inland cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length, the Pearson 27 is renowned for its unexpectedly spacious and airy interior. A key design innovation by William Shaw and his team was the re-imagining of the traditional layout, notably by moving the head (restroom) aft, which significantly contributes to a more open feel in the main cabin. This clever use of space makes the Pearson 27 a natural choice for family cruising. The main cabin boasts over 6 feet of headroom, a remarkable feature for a boat of this size, further enhancing the sense of openness. While specific details on the galley and sleeping berths are not extensively documented in general reviews, the overall design prioritizes comfort and utility, typical of Pearson's focus on practical cruising yachts.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Pearson 27 generally hold the boat in high regard, often praising it as a "great boat" and expressing satisfaction with their choice. The boat's robust construction and reliable sailing characteristics are frequently highlighted as strengths. Some discussions among owners revolve around typical maintenance items found on boats of this vintage, such as addressing a non-working hand pump in the head or issues with a steering pedestal. Overall, the Pearson 27 maintains a strong reputation for being a dependable and comfortable cruiser, embodying Pearson Yachts' legacy of building quality fiberglass sailboats.