Pearson boats
Pearson is a classic American sailboat builder known for fiberglass cruising designs, with 172 registered hulls still on record in the US fleet. The typical Pearson measures 26.9 feet and dates to the late 1970s or early 1980s, when most of these boats were built, appealing to sailors seeking traditional construction at a lower entry price than newer boats.
Pearson used price range
From 808 live listings in BoatVerdict's market data (10th, 50th, 90th percentile).
See Pearson values by model year →Are Pearson boats reliable?
Pearson has zero USCG recalls on record, reflecting conservative engineering and quality layup practices. Ownership costs center on age related maintenance rather than design flaws, with most registered hulls now 40 to 50 years old requiring regular attention to deck hardware, rigging, and below waterline fittings.
Common problems to inspect on a used Pearson
- Deck core delamination around stanchion bases and chainplates
- Hull blisters in the gelcoat or laminate on older models
- Corroded through hulls and aging seacocks
- Standing rigging wear on boats past their original service life
Registry footprint
Sample = US state open-data vessel registries (currently Texas + New York, ~875k vessels). Treat as a representative slice of recreational US inventory.
Recalls (0)
No USCG recalls on file for Pearson.
USCG MIC entries (3)
Frequently asked questions
Are Pearson boats reliable?
Pearson boats have a strong reputation for solid fiberglass construction and zero federal recalls, but most of the 172 registered hulls are 40 to 50 years old and require proactive maintenance of deck hardware, rigging, and through hull fittings to remain dependable.
What is the resale value of a Pearson sailboat?
Resale values vary widely by condition and model, but Pearson boats typically sell at the lower end of the used sailboat market due to their age. Well maintained examples with updated systems can command a premium among buyers seeking classic cruising designs.
What size engines do Pearson boats have?
Of the 172 registered Pearson hulls, 75 have diesel auxiliary engines, 70 have gasoline, and 17 show no engine or unavailable data. Most cruising models came with small auxiliary diesels for maneuvering under power when not sailing.
Are parts still available for Pearson boats?
Original Pearson specific parts are increasingly scarce, but standard marine hardware, rigging components, and engine parts remain widely available. The median boat is from 1980 or 1981, so buyers should budget for upgrading aging systems with modern equivalents.
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