Pearson 367 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Pearson 367 entered production in 1981 and continued until 1982, reflecting Pearson Yachts' commitment to producing well-engineered fiberglass sailboats during an era when fiberglass was firmly established as the material of choice for recreational yachts. Designed by William Shaw, who became Chief Naval Architect at Pearson after Carl Alberg's retirement in the 1970s, the 367 embodies Shaw's design philosophy of robust construction coupled with modern configurations like fin keels and spade rudders for improved performance and maneuverability. Pearson Yachts, under Shaw's leadership, was known for expanding its product line to include larger yachts, and the 367 fit into this progression as a capable cruiser. The brief production run of the 367 saw it also marketed as the Pearson 36 Cutter, emphasizing its practical and versatile cutter rig. The builder's ethos during this period, following their acquisition by Grumman Allied Industries and subsequent expansion, focused on high-quality, yet accessible, auxiliary sailboats appealing to both cruising and racing markets.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 14.1, the Pearson 367 leans towards being a more conservative cruiser rather than a light-air flyer. This ratio suggests that while she may require a bit more breeze to truly come alive, her design prioritizes stability and comfortable motion over extreme speed. The ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of around 0.41 indicates a relatively stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to a good deal of wind without excessive heeling, a desirable trait for offshore passages and maintaining comfort in a seaway. Furthermore, her displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 293 places her firmly in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, contributing to her solid feel and seakindliness.

The cutter rig, with its split foretriangle, provides excellent versatility in sail handling, particularly beneficial for single-handed sailing or managing sail area in varying wind conditions. Owners often praise the Pearson 367 for its balanced helm and predictable behavior. The fin keel combined with a skeg-hung rudder offers a good balance of maneuverability and directional stability. She is generally described as a capable performer that tracks well, making for comfortable extended passages.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed specifications on interior headroom are not consistently available, the Pearson 367 is renowned for its spacious and well-appointed accommodations below deck, which were a hallmark of Pearson designs from this era. The interior layout typically features a forward V-berth, often convertible to a private cabin. A main salon commonly includes a U-shaped settee and a straight settee, providing ample seating and dining space, often with a folding table. The galley is generally located along one side, equipped with a stove, oven, refrigeration, and a double sink, designed for functionality at sea. A navigation station is typically found opposite the galley, sometimes featuring a rotational design.

A dedicated head compartment, often with a shower, is usually situated between the salon and the forward cabin. Aft, many 367s feature a comfortable quarter berth or a second private cabin, offering additional sleeping capacity. The finish quality is generally characterized by robust construction and a practical use of materials, often incorporating warm wood accents balanced with fiberglass components. Ample storage is usually integrated throughout the cabin in the form of lockers, drawers, and shelving, catering to the needs of cruisers. Good ventilation is typically provided by opening ports and overhead hatches, contributing to a comfortable living environment.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Pearson 367 frequently express satisfaction with the boat's solid construction and its ability to handle challenging conditions. Many laud its comfortable motion offshore and the sense of security it provides. The cutter rig is consistently highlighted as a major strength, offering excellent versatility and ease of handling, especially for those cruising with a smaller crew. The interior space is often praised for its cruising comfort and liveability.

However, like many boats of its vintage, the Pearson 367 may present some common maintenance considerations. Owners sometimes note potential issues with original deck fittings requiring re-bedding over time to prevent leaks, a typical concern for boats of this age. Blistering on the hull, while not universal, can also be a factor to inspect during a pre-purchase survey. Overall, the consensus among owners points to the Pearson 367 as a reliable, capable, and comfortable cruising sailboat that offers significant value for its robust build and practical design.