Hawk 16 (Pearson) Information, Review, Specs

Pearson Yachts, founded by cousins Clinton and Everett Pearson in 1956, quickly became a leader in fiberglass boat production. They were known for robust construction and innovative designs, making sailing more accessible to a broader market. The Hawk 16, a testament to this ethos, represents the smallest of Carl Alberg's designs for Pearson, contributing to the company's early success in establishing fiberglass as a viable material for recreational boats.

History and Design

The Pearson Hawk 16 was in production from 1961 to 1963, a brief but impactful period in Pearson Yachts' history. During this era, Pearson was rapidly expanding, having achieved significant success with models like the Triton, and was actively building many new designs from Carl Alberg. Alberg, a prominent naval architect, was known for his philosophy of creating boats with long, graceful overhangs, low sheer lines, and a narrow beam, often reflecting the Cruising Club of America (CCA) rating rule prevalent at the time. For the Hawk 16, Alberg seemingly opted for a "slightly more speedy hull design," optimizing it for day-sailing pleasure.

Interestingly, while its production run was short in the US, the Hawk 16's design found a second life. A few were built under license in Germany, where the design was altered somewhat and reintroduced as the CONGER. The CONGER went on to become an "extremely popular class" and was still being built as of 2014, highlighting the enduring appeal and quality of Alberg's original lines. This evolution underscores the fundamental soundness and adaptability of the Hawk 16's hull and rig.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a 16.33-foot monohull with a centerboard keel, the Pearson Hawk 16 is designed for responsive and enjoyable day sailing. With a length overall of just over 16 feet and a waterline length of 13 feet, she is a compact yet capable performer. Her narrow 6-foot beam contributes to a sleek profile and potentially good upwind performance in lighter conditions. The Hawk 16's centerboard design is a key feature, allowing for a minimum draft of only 0.5 feet when raised, making her ideal for exploring shallow waters, beaching, and easy trailering. When the centerboard is lowered, the draft extends to 3.58 feet, providing better lateral resistance and stability while sailing.

Owners describe the Hawk 16 as a "joy to sail" and "lovely to look at." Her fractional sloop rig, with a main sail area of approximately 74.2 square feet and a foretriangle area of 48.57 square feet, provides a total sail area of around 123 square feet, offering sufficient power for its lightweight displacement of 575 pounds. The design emphasis on a "happy blending of her straight sheer and reverse transom" reflects Alberg's aesthetic and functional approach, aiming for both beauty and efficient sailing characteristics. Given her lightweight displacement and centerboard, the Hawk 16 is likely lively in light breezes and manageable in moderate conditions, offering a direct and engaging sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

The Pearson Hawk 16, as a dedicated day sailor, features a straightforward and open layout rather than extensive interior accommodations. Consistent with its design as a small recreational boat, the Hawk 16 typically offers a simple cockpit-centric arrangement. There are no dedicated berths or a full galley; instead, the focus is on maximizing usable space for crew and gear during day excursions. The design, as described by one source, was made "not too concerned with what was going on inside," prioritizing the sailing experience.

While detailed interior descriptions are scarce, the construction would have utilized Pearson's robust fiberglass techniques, ensuring durability. The open layout provides flexibility for stowing gear, coolers, and personal items. Ventilation is naturally ample given its open nature. The simplicity of the interior means less to maintain, aligning with the boat's reputation for requiring "only a minimum of care." Some owners might add a small cuddy or cover for basic shelter, but generally, the Hawk 16 is designed for pure on-deck enjoyment.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Pearson Hawk 16 frequently praise its solid construction and general durability, a hallmark of early Pearson fiberglass boats. Many report that even after decades, the hulls and primary structures remain sound, often requiring attention mainly to rigging and sails. The boat is consistently regarded as easy to rig and launch, with the mast potentially able to be stepped by a single person, enhancing its appeal as a convenient day sailor.

A recurring sentiment among owners is the Hawk 16's enjoyable sailing characteristics and its aesthetic appeal, often described as "lovely to look at" and a "joy to sail." Its centerboard design is also a valued feature, offering versatility for shallow water cruising and ease of transport. Common maintenance points, typical for boats of its age, might include general upkeep of rigging and sails, but the underlying build quality often minimizes structural concerns. The enduring popularity of its German counterpart, the CONGER, further testifies to the Hawk 16's successful design and its lasting legacy in the sailing community.