Pearson 28 (1975-80) Information, Review, Specs

The Pearson 28 emerged during a significant period for Pearson Yachts, a company that had rapidly grown since its founding in 1956 by cousins Clinton and Everett Pearson. Pearson was a pioneer in using fiberglass for boatbuilding, achieving early success with models like the Triton. By the mid-1960s, William Shaw had joined as Director of Design and Engineering, later becoming Chief Naval Architect, shaping Pearson's design philosophy towards modern configurations like fin keels and spade rudders for improved performance and maneuverability.

The Pearson 28, designed by William Shaw, reflects his belief that boats under 30 feet could be designed and built to compete effectively while offering comfortable cruising capabilities. Shaw's design philosophy for cruising boats emphasized being manageable and beautifully balanced. The model followed Pearson's tradition of reliable, well-engineered fiberglass construction. While the Pearson 28 (1975-80) itself did not have major documented variations like "MkI" or "MkII" during its production run, it was later replaced by the Pearson 28-2 in 1985, which was a new design by William Shaw. There were some minor changes to the interior and an updated keel for the Pearson 28 (1980-82) version, which succeeded this specific model.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Pearson 28 (1975-80) is designed to offer a balanced sailing experience, suitable for a variety of conditions. With a total calculated sail area of 391.9 sq ft and a displacement of 7,850 lbs, its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.72 suggests a moderate performer. This indicates that while the boat may not excel in very light air, it is likely to be a good all-around performer, handling well across a range of wind speeds without being overly tender.

The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of roughly 0.45 is relatively high. This substantial ballast, combined with a lead fin keel and a spade rudder, contributes significantly to the boat's stiffness and stability, allowing it to stand up to a good breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 253.48 places the Pearson 28 in the category of a mid-range cruiser. It's neither an ultralight racer nor a heavy, full-keeled traditional cruiser, striking a balance that offers both reasonable speed and seaworthiness. Owners often describe the Pearson 28 as beautifully balanced and manageable, a delight to sail.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Pearson 28 (1975-80) is designed to maximize comfort and utility within its 28-foot length. Although specific headroom details are not provided in the structured data, Pearson boats of this era generally aimed for practical and comfortable interiors. Based on reviews and typical designs for boats of this size and era, the layout usually features a forward V-berth, providing sleeping for two. A marine head is typically situated between the V-berth and the main salon, often enclosed for privacy.

The main salon generally includes settees on either side, which can double as additional berths, and a fold-down table. The galley is often located aft, usually to port or starboard, equipped with a sink, stove, and icebox, providing basic amenities for meal preparation. Storage is typically found throughout the boat in lockers, shelves, and under-berth compartments. The general finish quality in Pearson yachts of this period was known for robust construction, often incorporating wood trim and fiberglass surfaces, emphasizing durability and ease of maintenance. While specific ventilation features would vary, typical arrangements included opening ports and hatches for airflow. The successor, the Pearson 28-2, was noted for having a comfortable interior with a lot of volume due to its beam.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Pearson 28 (1975-80) often praise its solid construction and dependable sailing characteristics. Many new owners express enthusiasm for their boats, frequently seeking out online forums and communities for information and support. The boat is generally regarded as a good all-around racing/cruising boat. Some discussions among owners revolve around common maintenance items, such as engine-starting questions related to the Universal-Atomic 4 engine, which was standard for many Pearson models of that time. While opinions on older vintage Pearson boats can be mixed, the Pearson 28 from this era is generally seen as a robust and reliable vessel, with its enduring appeal rooted in sensible designs and classic aesthetics. Online communities, such as the Pearson Yacht Owners Portal and various forums, serve as active hubs for owners to share knowledge and support, ensuring the legacy of these boats continues.