The Pearson 28 is a popular sailing boat that was produced by Pearson Yachts from 1980 to 1982. It is a mid-sized cruiser-racer sailboat designed by William Shaw. Here are some key features and characteristics of the Pearson 28:
1. Dimensions: The Pearson 28 has an overall length of 28 feet (8.53 meters) and a beam (width) of 9.5 feet (2.9 meters). It has a draft of 4.5 feet (1.37 meters), which makes it suitable for both coastal cruising and racing.
2. Hull Design: The boat features a solid fiberglass hull with a moderate displacement design. It has a fin keel and a spade rudder, which provide good stability and maneuverability.
3. Interior Layout: The Pearson 28 has a comfortable and spacious interior layout. It typically accommodates up to six people with a V-berth in the forward cabin, a main salon with settees that can convert into berths, and a quarter berth aft. It also has a small galley with a sink, stove, and icebox, as well as a head (bathroom) with a marine toilet.
4. Rigging and Sails: The boat is sloop-rigged, meaning it has a single mast with a mainsail and a headsail. The Pearson 28 usually comes with a roller furling headsail, making it easy to handle and adjust the sail area. It also has a mainsail with reefing points for adjusting the sail size in different wind conditions.
5. Performance: The Pearson 28 is known for its good sailing performance. It has a moderate sail area-to-displacement ratio, allowing it to sail well in a variety of wind conditions. The boat is responsive and relatively fast, making it suitable for both cruising and club racing.
6. Construction and Quality: Pearson Yachts is known for producing well-built boats, and the Pearson 28 is no exception. The boat is constructed with quality materials and craftsmanship, ensuring durability and longevity.
7. Popularity and Availability: The Pearson 28 is a popular boat among sailors due to its versatility, comfort, and performance. It is often found in the used boat market, and there are still many well-maintained examples available for purchase.
Overall, the Pearson 28 is a reliable and well-regarded sailboat that offers a good balance between cruising comfort and racing performance. It is suitable for sailors looking for a mid-sized boat that can handle coastal cruising, day sailing, and even some club racing.