Wanderer 30 (Pearson) Information, Review, Specs

The Pearson Wanderer 30 was produced from 1966 to 1971, marking a period of significant growth and evolution for Pearson Yachts under the ownership of Grumman Allied Industries. During this era, Pearson was rapidly expanding, opening a large manufacturing plant in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, and solidifying its reputation for reliable, well-engineered fiberglass sailboats. William Shaw, who joined Pearson in 1964, began to influence designs by moving towards more modern configurations, including fin keels and spade rudders for enhanced performance and maneuverability, a departure from the earlier Carl Alberg designs that characterized Pearson's initial success. The Wanderer 30 exemplifies this shift with its keel/centerboard configuration, allowing for a minimum draft of 3.5 feet, expanding access to shallower anchorages, while a maximum draft of 7.0 feet with the board down offers improved upwind performance. Minor changes to the rig and interior were introduced in 1970.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 30 feet, the Pearson Wanderer 30 combines a respectable waterline length of 23.33 feet with a beam of 9.33 feet, contributing to its stable nature. The boat's sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 14.63 suggests it is a relatively heavy displacement cruiser rather than a light-air performer, indicating a design focused on comfort and stability over outright speed in light winds. This is further reinforced by a high displacement to length ratio of around 344.07, characteristic of a substantial cruising vessel. Its ballast to displacement ratio of approximately 38.77% provides a good measure of stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up to a fair amount of wind.

Owners generally report that the Wanderer 30 "sails great" and describe it as a fast shoal-draft hull. However, some owners have noted a "heavy helm" as a characteristic of its handling. The centerboard design allows for versatile performance, offering a shallower draft for exploring thin waters and a deeper draft for better pointing ability and stability when sailing offshore.

Accommodations and Layout

The Pearson Wanderer 30 was designed with "spacious cruising accommodations" and a "totally new interior arrangement that emphasizes comfort" for its time. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the interior typically features a traditional layout. This arrangement often includes a V-berth forward, providing sleeping quarters for two, with some models featuring modifications like a panel and cushion to bridge the space between berths. A marine head is generally located just aft of the V-berth. The main salon usually offers settees on either side, which can double as additional berths, centered around a table. A galley area, often equipped with a sink and stove, and a navigation station are typically found towards the companionway. Pearson was known for its robust fiberglass construction, which extended to the interior, providing a durable and functional living space.

Owner's Perspectives

The Pearson Wanderer 30 has garnered a loyal following, with owners frequently praising its solid construction and overall build quality. Many consider the hull to be "very sound and solid". The shoal draft with a centerboard is a highly sought-after feature, enabling access to shallow anchorages that deeper-keeled boats cannot reach. The boat is often described as well-built, and it sails effectively. While owners appreciate the boat's seaworthiness, a common issue noted by some is a heavy helm. The original Universal-Atomic 4 gasoline engine, commonly found in these vessels, is often reported to run well if maintained. As with many older fiberglass yachts, the longevity of Pearson's construction means that any significant issues are often related to deferred maintenance or modifications by previous owners.