Pearson 38 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Pearson 38 emerged in the twilight years of Pearson Yachts, with its production commencing in 1989. Only 21 hulls of the original model were built before the company ceased operations in 1990. However, the design found a brief resurrection in 1998 when the short-lived Cal-Pearson Corporation produced an additional three updated versions from the original molds.

Designed by William Shaw, who became Pearson's Chief Naval Architect after Carl Alberg, the Pearson 38 reflected Shaw's evolving design philosophy. Shaw aimed to improve upon the then-prevalent "cruiser/racer" theme, focusing on creating cruising boats that were both comfortable and stable. The Pearson 38 incorporated a fin keel and spade rudder, a hallmark of Shaw's designs that enhanced performance and maneuverability. It is noted that the Pearson 38's hull is essentially the same as the earlier Pearson 36-2, a model produced from 1985 to 1990. For the 38, Shaw designed the boat with ample beam and a long waterline to achieve a balance of cruising performance, comfort, and ease of handling. The choice of a wing keel design also contributed to dampening the boat's motion in a seaway, adding to its cruising comfort.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Pearson 38 is characterized as a "light-footed" and easily handled coastal cruiser. Its sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 17.0 suggests a balanced performance, allowing it to move well in lighter air without being overly powerful in strong winds. This ratio is indicative of a boat designed for comfortable cruising with respectable speed.

With a ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of around 0.40, the Pearson 38 demonstrates good stability, meaning it can stand up to a fair amount of wind and maintain its composure in varied conditions. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 262 indicates a moderately heavy displacement vessel for its waterline length. This contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway, rather than a light, skittish feel, aligning with Shaw's philosophy of creating stable cruising boats.

Anecdotal reports suggest the Pearson 38 tacks easily, typically achieving a 90-degree tack, and can make speeds of approximately 6.5 knots in about 10 knots of apparent wind. The combination of a fin keel and spade rudder provides responsive handling and improved maneuverability, making it a joy to sail for both experienced and novice sailors. The use of a double spreader rig further supports its performance-oriented cruising design.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific details on the Pearson 38's interior dimensions are limited in general specifications, it was designed with the comfort of two couples in mind, offering private staterooms. The interior is noted for its finely finished cherry wood, providing a warm and inviting ambiance.

The layout typically features a spacious owner's stateroom aft of the galley, which includes a large double berth that extends beneath the cockpit. This aft cabin benefits from an overhead hatch and two opening ports into the cockpit, ensuring adequate ventilation. While the full extent of the interior amenities relies heavily on individual boat configurations and owner upgrades, the design prioritizes livability and comfort during extended cruises. The emphasis on accommodating two couples comfortably suggests well-appointed forward and aft sleeping areas, a functional galley, and a head compartment, providing privacy and convenience onboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Pearson 38 generally praise its solid construction and comfortable motion in a seaway, reflecting Pearson's long-standing reputation for building reliable and well-engineered fiberglass yachts. The boat's ease of handling and "light-footed" nature are frequently cited strengths, making it a popular choice for coastal cruising.

However, some common maintenance issues have been noted by owners. The balsa-cored decks, typical of many boats from this era, can be a potential source of problems if water ingress occurs, and original portlights are known to be prone to leaks, often requiring re-bedding. Despite these potential concerns, the active owner community, including the Pearson Yacht Owners Portal, signifies a strong appreciation for the model's enduring qualities and provides a valuable resource for support and shared knowledge.