Resolute 20 (Pearson) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Resolute 20 in 1964 followed Pearson Yachts' established trajectory as a leader in fiberglass boatbuilding. Founded by cousins Clinton and Everett Pearson, the company had already cemented its reputation with successful models like the Triton, demonstrating a commitment to robust construction and making sailing accessible. William "Bill" Tritt, the designer of the Resolute 20, conceived the boat to be exceptionally roomy for its 19-foot length by stretching its waterline. His design philosophy for the Resolute 20 was to blend traditional aesthetic appeal—evoking a "salty appeal of traditional early American styling"—with enduring value and performance through Pearson's fiberglass craftsmanship. Pearson Yachts, during this era, was known for its innovative use of fiberglass, enabling the production of reliable and well-engineered sailboats that combined design appeal with low maintenance., 5] While no significant variations like "MkI" or "MkII" are widely documented, the Resolute 20 stands as a singular testament to this design and manufacturing ethos.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a sailboat under 30 feet in length, traditional performance ratios like Sail Area to Displacement are less indicative of its sailing characteristics. Instead, the Pearson Resolute 20 is primarily celebrated for its qualitative sailing attributes. She was designed to be a "fast, stable, safe performer" that sails with "grace and beauty." The boat features a long keel hull type, a design choice that typically contributes to excellent directional stability, making the boat track well and feel secure in a seaway. Rigged as a masthead sloop, the Resolute 20 carries its sail plan effectively, providing a balanced and comfortable sailing experience for families and day-sailing enthusiasts. Its "nice turn of speed" suggests that despite its cruising-oriented long keel, it can offer an engaging sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact length overall of just under 20 feet (19.58 ft), the Pearson Resolute 20's accommodations are naturally modest, focusing on providing essential shelter and a functional cockpit for day-sailing. The boat features an "open cockpit," suggesting a design optimized for spaciousness on deck rather than extensive interior living space. While specific interior diagrams for the Resolute 20 are not readily available, boats of this size often feature a basic cuddy cabin. This typically includes space for two large bunks, offering rudimentary sleeping arrangements or simply a dry place to store gear and find shelter. Some similar small cruisers from the era might incorporate a small area for a portable head (Porta Potti) and minimal galley facilities, though the emphasis remains on simplicity and ease of use for day or weekend excursions. The hallmark of Pearson's fiberglass craftsmanship ensures a sturdy and well-finished interior, even in a smaller vessel.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Pearson yachts, including the Resolute 20, frequently praise the robust construction and sensible designs that characterize the brand's offerings. The longevity of these vessels is a common theme among owners, with some having sailed their Resolute 20s for over 30 years, a testament to their enduring quality and classic appeal. While specific common problems for the Resolute 20 are not widely reported, the general sentiment among Pearson owners highlights the reliability and comfort of these boats, making them popular choices for those seeking dependable and enjoyable sailing experiences. The active online communities and forums dedicated to Pearson yachts further underscore the strong bond and shared appreciation among owners, ensuring the legacy of these classic fiberglass sailboats continues.