Pearson 27 (Triton 27) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Pearson 27 (Triton 27) was produced between 1984 and 1985. Interestingly, this particular iteration of the "Triton" line by Pearson was not an original Pearson design. Instead, Pearson Yachts acquired the molds for these vessels from US Yachts, a division of Bayliner Inc., which had previously produced the Buccaneer series of sailboats. Consequently, the Pearson 27 is very similar to the earlier US 27, a design penned by naval architect Doug Peterson, often in collaboration with Daryl Watson. The design itself is distantly related to Peterson's 1975 IOR 1/2 ton design, the Chaser 29.

During this era, Pearson Yachts, under the leadership of William Shaw as Chief Naval Architect, was known for its robust construction and commitment to producing high-quality, yet affordable, fiberglass auxiliary sailboats. While Pearson was also building larger yachts at this time, the acquisition of existing molds for the 27-foot model allowed them to quickly introduce a new offering under a familiar and trusted name. A shoal draft version was also available, reducing the draft to 3.50 feet for enhanced shallow-water accessibility., 16] The hull features a fin keel and a spade rudder, a modern configuration for improved performance and maneuverability. [9,

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, owners often describe sailing the Pearson 27 as akin to handling a larger vessel, particularly noting its tiller steering. It is praised for being responsive, well-balanced, and a joy to sail. The boat’s performance is attributed to its solid construction, generous sail plan, a relatively long waterline length, and a wide beam, contributing to its stiffness and speed. Owners report that the Pearson 27 balances well and can comfortably manage challenging conditions, with one owner noting its ability to handle "very rough conditions" on Lake Erie. The combination of its fin keel and spade rudder provides excellent maneuverability and overall stability under sail. Its moderate sail plan further enhances its reputation as a reliable and easy-to-handle boat.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Pearson 27 is notable for its spaciousness and open feel, particularly for a boat of its size. It boasts over 6 feet of headroom in the main cabin, contributing significantly to its airy ambiance and creating the impression of a much larger vessel. The layout features an enclosed aft stateroom positioned to port, offering private sleeping quarters, while a large enclosed head (bathroom) is conveniently located to starboard. The galley typically includes a two-burner Origo alcohol stove. The thoughtful design of the interior makes the Pearson 27 a comfortable small cruising yacht, optimizing the available volume for habitability and functionality.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently express strong satisfaction with the Pearson 27, often regretting selling their boats. The collective sentiment points to its solid construction, comfortable motion in a seaway, and forgiving nature as significant strengths. It is often recommended as an ideal choice for short-handed sailing or leisurely family cruising due to its robust build, spacious interior, and straightforward sail plan. While generally well-regarded for its reliability, some owners have noted the potential for original deck fittings to develop leaks over time, suggesting that re-bedding might be a common maintenance task for older models. However, the overall consensus highlights the Pearson 27 as a durable and enjoyable sailboat, making it a popular choice for those seeking a dependable and comfortable cruising experience.