Triton (Pearson) Yawl Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Pearson Triton began with a pivotal request from American Boat Building for an auxiliary sailboat that could be sold for under $10,000, leading Pearson Yachts' founders, Clinton and Everett Pearson, to collaborate with Carl Alberg. Alberg designed the 28-foot Triton to sleep four individuals, laying the groundwork for what would become an iconic model. The design, reportedly inspired by traditional Scandinavian lines, featured Alberg's characteristic "skinny" hull form, long overhangs, low freeboard, a large mainsail, and a small foretriangle, adhering to the prevalent Cruising Club of America (CCA) rating rule of the era, 19].

Pearson Yachts, pioneers in fiberglass adoption, embraced this innovative material to construct the Triton, setting a precedent for the entire boatbuilding industry, 3, 13, 14]. While the Triton was primarily offered as a sloop, the yawl rig, as described in this specific model, provided additional flexibility in sail handling and trim. The sailplan of the Triton saw several changes throughout its production run, accommodating different rigging preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a total calculated sail area of 341.15 square feet and a displacement of 6930 pounds, the Pearson Triton (Yawl) exhibits a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 14.93. This suggests a boat with moderate performance capabilities, capable of respectable speeds without being overly sensitive to light air. Its Displacement to Length ratio of around 311 indicates a heavier, more traditional cruising vessel, characteristic of its long-keeled design.

A significant aspect of the Triton's sailing characteristics is its stability, supported by a Ballast to Displacement ratio of 0.435, which signifies a stiff and stable boat. Owners often note that the Triton is initially tender but stiffens up considerably after an initial heel of about 15 degrees, allowing it to stand up to more wind. The Triton is widely regarded as a very forgiving boat, making it an excellent choice for beginners. Despite its traditional lines, it is "surprisingly quick" for its type. One common characteristic observed by owners is its tendency for weather helm, a result of its large mainsail and small foretriangle, which can require active steering input.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Pearson Triton (Yawl) is renowned for its straightforward and functional layout, typically designed to accommodate four individuals. The cabin usually features a simple plan with a V-berth forward, followed by an enclosed head compartment. The main salon traditionally offers a couple of settee berths, providing comfortable seating and additional sleeping arrangements.

While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the interior is generally considered adequate for a boat of its size and era. Owners often report that the general finish quality of Pearson's initial construction was robust. The use of materials typically involved durable fiberglass structures with functional, rather than luxurious, wood trim. Storage solutions are practical for a cruising boat of its size, and ventilation is typically achieved through traditional deck hatches and portlights.

Owner's Perspectives

The Pearson Triton enjoys a passionate and active owner community, a testament to its enduring appeal and robust construction, 4, 6, 7, 11]. Owners consistently praise the Triton's solid build quality and its capability as a reliable and comfortable cruising vessel. Many consider it a "GREAT Small Ocean Passage Maker for Solo Sailing," highlighting its seaworthiness and forgiving nature for extended voyages. Its simple yet effective design contributes to its longevity and continued popularity.

However, owners also frequently discuss common maintenance considerations. While the overall construction is strong, recurring issues mentioned include the potential for "problem areas of the deck surface, including cracks around the original deck fittings," which may require re-bedding or repair over time. The characteristic weather helm is also a frequent topic of discussion among owners, who often seek ways to optimize sail trim to mitigate it. Despite these minor points, the collective sentiment among owners remains overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing the Triton's value as a capable, classic sailboat.