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Pearson 37 and 37-2 Used Boat Review
An island double berth in the forepeak and a pair of lounge chairs in the saloon marked the pearson 37 and 37-2 as critical benchmarks in the evolution of the performance cruiser. and that transom pass through on the 37-2 led to...the sugar scoop.
In the decade prior to its demise in 1991, Pearson Yachts was noted for building mainstream cruiser/racers of above average construction with decent sailing and cruising characteristics.
During its long history, Pearson’s boats can be divided into three fairly distinct categories. Though the company was formed in 1956, its first large successful sailboat was the Triton, in 1959. Into the mid-1960s, Pearson built solid boats, like the Vanguard, Rhodes 41, Invicta 38 and Countess 44, that were capable of offshore sailing. This was due in part to their moderately heavy displacement, full keels and all-wood interiors, which allowed bulkheads to be tabbed to the deck, as well as all furniture to the hull.
As the demand for lighter, general-purpose boats became stronger, and as Bill Shaw took over all the design work, Pearson built a lot of CCA-type full-keel sailboats, including the Pearson 33 and 39. Some were keel/centerboards. They had large mainsails, smaller foretriangles, and generous overhangs. These boats represent something of a transition between the old Rhodes, Alberg and Alden designs, and Shaw’s 1980-era designs, which make up the third category.
The Pearson 37 is one of several transitional Bill Shaw designs that stands apart from the others.
The Pearson 37 was designed to meet the IOR rule, and double as a family cruiser. It was the start of the racer-cruiser era, and the Pearson 37, launched in 1981, was a model for this period. Production totaled 42 boats and lasted only a few years. It is not to be confused with another Pearson 37 that was aimed specifically at the cruising market and manufactured from 1987-89. The re-designed hull shape of the second 37, the 37-2, is more conventional, with a greater 12′ 4″ beam, and there moderately priced examples currently on the used market. (See the accompanying Market Scans.)
“That later boat was designed specifically for the cruiser who wanted to tie up his boat in the marina at night,” said Shaw. “We built a powerboat-like interior with a double berth forward, and placed two swivel chairs in the saloon. We were on the cutting edge of what is now considered a typical sailboat interior. We also added a stepa-board transom.” The so-called “sugar scoop” was born.
The 6′ 6″ deep fin of the 1981 boat was replaced with a 4’ 8″ shoal draft keel for gunkholers, and winglets were added, which some owners say slightly improved its pointing ability.
Other cruising additions were a self-tacking jib, lazy jacks, and a mainsail with a built-in sail cover that zipped over the boom à la the Doyle Stack Pack.
Design The earlier Pearson 37 was one of 43 boats Bill Shaw designed during his 27-plus year tenure at Pearson Yachts, first as designer, later as general manager and part owner.
“I designed the boat for sailors who wanted to race their boats in IOR and PHRF fleets, then jettison the crew, pick up the wife and children, and go cruising,” he said. “The hull design was state-of-the-art, if you will, and she was furnished with a comfortable, though lightweight, interior.”
The IOR influence is evident in the pinched ends and bustle.
The boat carries plenty of sail for its intended purpose; the high-aspect mainsail measures 276 sq. ft. and the foretriangle 363 sq. ft. for a total of 639 sq. ft. This give the boat a sail area/displacement ratio of 18.7. The spinnaker is 1,302 sq. ft.
Displacing 12,800 lbs. on a waterline of 30′ 1-1/2″, the 37’s displacement/length ratio is 195. This is not light by today’s standards, but light to moderate for its time.
The rudder is behind a small skeg and there are flaps to minimize drag. All through-hulls are flush.
Accommodations are significantly more comfortable than today’s modern race boat. The hulls are lined with spruce and hickory, cabin soles are teak and holly, and the head and master stateroom are enclosed with wooden doors. There are berths for seven, which you might fill on an overnight race, but that’s too many for cruising.
Construction In typical Pearson fashion, the early 37’s construction schedule and hardware have conservative specifications.
“Our approach was to evaluate loads and then build in a 30-percent fudge factor,” Shaw said.
The lamination schedule for the balsa-cored hull included alternating layers of mat and roving, “to provide impact resistance,” Shaw said. The deck is cored with balsa. Encapsulated plywood was substituted in areas where hardware fastens.
Though vinylester resins were not being produced at the time, Shaw says that the company had overcome blistering problems by using high quality gelcoat. However, several owners report minor blistering on their hulls.
“We noticed reoccurrences of blistering following the energy crisis of the late 1970s,” Shaw said. “Gelcoat was turning yellow, and we saw evidence of crazing. My theory is that the manufacturer was substituting ingredients in the product because of the oil crisis. We also determined that boats in northern climes that were hauled every winter were less prone to blistering, especially compared to those in the south that lived in warm, brackish water.”
The hull has an inward-oriented flange onto which the deck was laid. It was bonded with silicone, the seam was glassed on the underside of the deck, and stainless steel fasteners were bolted through the teak toerail.
In response to owner comments regarding leaky portlights, Shaw said, “We used the best materials available at the time, but silicone will eventually cause leaks.”
Wiring runs are accessible; wires are bundled and color coded, and owners report no electrical problems or failures.
Water is in two 35-gallon bladder tanks below a settee. The aluminum fuel tank holds 22-gallons.
Deck The keel-stepped mast is tapered with double spreaders. The upper, intermediate and lower shrouds are #8, #10 and #12 Navtec rod, and stays are #10 rod. There also is a babystay that fastens to a short track on deck.
Our test boat, which was commissioned in 1981, wears its age well. The gelcoat is smooth and fair, and shows few signs of crazing; the diamond nonskid was effective during rainy test conditions. Double lifelines running from bow to stern, coupled with a 2″ teak toerail and cabintop handrails, provide security when heeled.
Halyards are inside the mast, a bit unusual on boats of this vintage. They run through turning blocks attached to the mast collar to four two-speed Lewmar 42 winches mounted on deck just aft of the mast. For windward work, when tight sheeting angles are required, the jib sheets are led aft through two cars on tracks located inboard next to the cabintop. For sailing downwind, they can be re-led to tracks on the toerail. The primary winches are three-speed Lewmar 48s.
Flattener, reef lines and other sail controls are led to two-speed Lewmar 30s mounted atop the coachroof within easy reach of the trimmer; standard equipment was four stainless steel cleats that we would replace with modern rope clutches.
The boat is well ventilated by two hatches, one 26″ square over the forepeak and a second, 12″ square, over the head.
The cockpit measures 8′ 6″ and seats 6-8 adults on comfortably contoured seats. In fact, Shaw probably designed the most ergonomic cockpit seats of any designer doing production boats. The helmsman sits atop a rounded seat while under power, then moves to seats in the cockpit corners for sightlines to the telltales.
A port lazarette with a 40″-wide opening is a 6′ long, 36″ deep locker large enough to hold a deflated inflatable dinghy; otherwise, it would benefit from installation of a shelf. Stowage for two propane tanks is located to port at the transom.
Boats came with a 40″ stainless steel destroyer wheel with less than two turns lock to lock.
The mainsheet tackle is near the end of the boom and connects to a traveler on the bridgedeck. This location makes moving in and out of the cabin somewhat inconvenient, but seems best for proper sail control. The only alternative would be mid-boom sheeting to a traveler mounted on a bridge over the companionway, but this would be less convenient for the trimmer and require more purchase.
Interior Exploration of spaces belowdecks confirms that Shaw does not exaggerate the boat’s dual personality. The interior is well-lighted by portlights. Spruce and hickory line the hull and overhead. The hickory dining table stows flush against the bulkhead, which opens the area to traffic and makes way for moving through with sails for packing under the V-berth. Headroom is 6′ 3″. Several owners commented that adhesives holding interior wood panels eventually loosened.
The L-shaped galley is located to port below the companionway, which facilitates ventilation of odors and the transportation of vittles to the cockpit. It centers around a gimbaled propane stove, though many boats were retrofitted with electric ranges that either drew rave reviews (“much safer and don’t have to worry about an explosion,” one owner said) or were ridiculed.
Storage is in two large dry lockers and shelves that surround the stove. A well-insulated 33″ x 30″ icebox aft of the stove reportedly will maintain block ice for up to five days. The stainless steel sink is forward in a leg of the galley that separates it from the saloon.
Opposite the galley is the nav station with a 24″ x 36″ table that’s actually large enough to be functional; its storage area, however, is only 4″ deep.
The electrical panel is mounted outboard in a fascia that has enough room for electronics such as VHF radio, GPS, stereo and other instrumentation. To work at the chart table, one sits on the head of the quarterberth, so there is no backrest.
This quarterberth is 48″ wide at the head, 6′ 6″ long, and furnished with a reading light and shelving.
Additional sleeping accommodations are in port and starboard settees and pilot berths, which measure 26″ wide and 77″ long. The pilot berths are equipped with canvas lee cloths, and are more comfortable for sleeping than the settees.
The master stateroom in the bow is enclosed by a wooden door, and has 6′ standing headroom. The V-berth is 5′ 11″ wide at the head and 6′ 6″ long. The compartment has two hanging lockers and additional storage below the berth, which also houses the holding tank.
The head, located to starboard, measures 41″ long and 38″ wide, and is equipped with a canvas-lined clothes hamper—a nice touch. Furnishings include a stainless steel sink, a functional medicine cabinet, and linen closet behind the vanity.
Considering its racing orientation, we think the boat’s layout, accommodations, and volume of storage areas are adequate for coastal cruising.
Performance Most owners who race their Pearson 37s report that the PHRF rating is around 105-108, depending upon spinnaker size, but we found boats with ratings as low as 99. The owner of our test boat races year round in the Pacific Northwest and typically finishes among the first three boats in a fleet of 35- to 55-foot racer/cruisers. He is flying older Dacron sails, so we would anticipate significant improvements in boat speed and pointing ability if outfitted with newer sails.
We tested the boat on a raw winter day in wind speeds ranging from 12-25 knots and a 2′-3′ chop. The owner typically loads the hydraulic backstay adjuster to 2,500 pounds for sailing to weather in these conditions.
Sailing with a 130% jib and full mainsail, boat speed was 6.7 to 7.4 knots on a close reach, about a half knot slower when hard on the breeze. With properly trimmed sails the helm is well-balanced; easing the main traveler to leeward in heavy puffs dramatically reduced weather helm. We depowered the main by increasing backstay tension.
On a weather beat the boat pointed to within 30°-35° of apparent wind, and tacked through 80°-85°; it tends to go sideways when heeled more than 15°.
In the heaviest puffs we noted rudder stall when attempting to foot off. Shaw says this is the product of a design intended to meet then-current IOR design targets.
“The best solution in those conditions is to have a mainsail trimmer who can ease the sheet,” he advised.
The owner of our test boat reported speeds of 9-11 knots sailing under spinnaker, and 8.5 knots downwind with the #2 jib poled out while towing a dinghy.
The strong suit of IOR designs is sailing upwind. When reaching and running, these boats are more difficult to handle and the Pearson 37 is no exception.
Our test boat was equipped with a Universal 3-cylinder diesel rated at 23-hp. equipped with a Martec folding propeller. It motored at 6.2 knots at three-quarters throttle, backed up easily and tracked well in reverse.
Because there is no insulation under the cockpit sole, it’s noisy underway; one owner attacked the situation with heavy insulation and reportedly reduced engine noise belowdecks to 62 db.
Conclusion The overall condition of our test boat was impressive, especially considering that it lives year round on a mooring in the Pacific Northwest and is sailed hard by its original owner. Though he doesn’t spend weekends polishing the hull or varnishing the woodwork, the boat shows only the signs of wear we’d expect to see in a boat of a certain vintage.
Also impressive was its performance. The Pearson 37 rates only 15-20 seconds slower than newer, similarly sized boats, and has decent cruising amenities. We’d opt for the deep keel, if it can be sailed in your local waters.
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I would like to see more write ups on the Pearson 39-2
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- Sailboat Guide
Pearson 37 is a 36 ′ 10 ″ / 11.3 m monohull sailboat designed by William Shaw and built by Pearson Yachts between 1982 and 1986.
Rig and Sails
Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.
The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.
Classic hull speed formula:
Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL
Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL
Sail Area / Displacement Ratio
A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.
SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3
- SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
- D : Displacement in pounds.
Ballast / Displacement Ratio
A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.
Ballast / Displacement * 100
Displacement / Length Ratio
A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.
D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³
- D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
- LWL: Waterline length in feet
Comfort Ratio
This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.
Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )
- D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
- LOA: Length overall in feet
- Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet
Capsize Screening Formula
This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.
CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)
Shoal draft: 4.90’ / 1.49m Disp. 12800 lbs./5806 kgs.;Ballast: 5400 lbs./2449 kgs. (From manufacturers brochure.)
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Pearson 37 2
The pearson 37 2 is a 37.42ft masthead sloop designed by william shaw and built in fiberglass by pearson yachts between 1988 and 1991..
The Pearson 37 2 is a moderate weight sailboat which is a reasonably good performer. It is stable / stiff and has a good righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a coastal cruiser. The fuel capacity is originally small. There is a good water supply range.
Pearson 37 2 for sale elsewhere on the web:
Main features
| Model | Pearson 37 2 | ||
| Length | 37.42 ft | ||
| Beam | 12.33 ft | ||
| Draft | 4.67 ft | ||
| Country | United states (North America) | ||
| Estimated price | $ 0 | ?? |
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| Sail area / displ. | 16.72 | ||
| Ballast / displ. | 37.50 % | ||
| Displ. / length | 275.98 | ||
| Comfort ratio | 27.29 | ||
| Capsize | 1.96 |
| Hull type | Monohull wing keel | ||
| Construction | Fiberglass | ||
| Waterline length | 29.58 ft | ||
| Maximum draft | 4.67 ft | ||
| Displacement | 16000 lbs | ||
| Ballast | 6000 lbs | ||
| Hull speed | 7.29 knots |
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| Rigging | Masthead Sloop | ||
| Sail area (100%) | 661 sq.ft | ||
| Air draft | 52 ft | ||
| Sail area fore | 340.67 sq.ft | ||
| Sail area main | 320.21 sq.ft | ||
| I | 47.25 ft | ||
| J | 14.42 ft | ||
| P | 41 ft | ||
| E | 15.62 ft |
| Nb engines | 1 | ||
| Total power | 0 HP | ||
| Fuel capacity | 37 gals |
Accommodations
| Water capacity | 100 gals | ||
| Headroom | 0 ft | ||
| Nb of cabins | 0 | ||
| Nb of berths | 0 | ||
| Nb heads | 0 |
Builder data
| Builder | Pearson Yachts | ||
| Designer | William Shaw | ||
| First built | 1988 | ||
| Last built | 1991 | ||
| Number built | 0 | ?? |
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Table of All Models by Pearson Yachts
All sailboat models.
Listed by model name - click header field to sort by column.
| Model | Type | LOA | Draft | DISP | SA/D | Production | Designer | Links |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sailing Dinghy | 8 | 120/98 | 1958 | |||||
| | Full Keel | Stepped Cabin House Fractional | Yawl | 28.3 | 4.0 | 6930 | 14.5 | 1959–1967 (750 + 125) | Alberg | |
| | Centerboard | Kick-up Rudder | 16.3 | .6 | 3.6 | 575 | 28.5 | 1962–63 | Alberg | |
| | Catamaran | Fractional Rig | 17 | 585 | 1960 (162) | | |||
| | Full Keel | Fractional Stepped Cabin House | 22.5 | 3.0 | 3000 | 17.5 | 1960–65 (350) | Alberg | |
| | Keel/CB | Yawl | 37.7 | 4.5 | 7.7 | 15000 | 14.8 | 1960–1965 (33) | Tripp | |
| | Full Keel | Stepped Cabin House Yawl | Fractional Rig | 40.8 | 5.7 | 18800 | 15.7 | 1962–1968 (150) | Rhodes | |
| | Full Keel | Stepped Cabin House | 35 | 5.2 | 12600 | 15.8 | 1961–1967 | Alberg | |
| | Cat Rig | Centerboard | 12.1 | 5.2 | 286 | 1962 | Tritt | | Centerboard | 15 | 112 | 1960's | --> |
| | Full Keel | Fractional One-Design | 22.5 | 3.0 | 3000 | 18.8 | 1962–present (1793+) | Alberg | |
| | Full Keel | Stepped Cabin House | 25.5 | 3.8 | 5120 | 15.3 | 1962–1966 (440) | Alberg | |
| | Full Keel | Stepped Cabin House Yawl | 32.5 | 4.5 | 10300 | 16.0/17.5 | 1963–1967 (404) | Rhodes | |
| | Full Keel | 20 | 3.5 | 1800 | 17.6 | 1963 | Tritt | |
| | Modified Full Keel | 18 | 1000 | 32.5 | 1963 (50) | Tritt | | |
| | Full Keel | 26 | 3.4 | 5400 | 16.2 | 1964–1967 (351) | Alberg | |
| | Full Keel | Pilot House Ketch | 44.5 | 5.3 | 28000 | 13.6/12.7 | 1965–1970 | Alden | |
| | Keel/CB | Stepped Cabin House | 30.2 | 3.5 | 6.8 | 9800 | 14.7 | 1966–1971 (177) | Shaw | |
| | Full Keel | Flush Deck | 24.0 | 4.0 | 4300 | 18.9 | 1966–1968 | Shaw | |
| | Full Keel | Stepped Cabin House Yawl | 29.8 | 4.6 | 9500 | 15.0 | 1966–1970 | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | Stepped Cabin House | 27.2 | 4.3 | 6500 | 16.0 | 1967–1970 (173) | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | Fractional Rig | 22.3 | 3.5 | 2600 | 18.4 | 1968–1972 | Shaw | |
| | Full Keel | 23.5 | 4.0 | 4300 | 17.3 | 1968–1969 | Shaw | |
| | Full Keel | Pilot House | 30.3 | 3.5 | 10000 | 12.1 | 1969–1970 (few) | Shaw | |
| | Keel/CB | 35 | 3.8 | 7.5 | 13000 | 15.9 | 1968–1982 (514) | Shaw | |
| | Modified Keel | Sloop/Yawl | 42.8 | 6.5 | 21796 | 16.3/15.7 | 1968–1971 | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | Stepped Cabin House Weekender Package | 26.1 | 4.0 | 5400 | 16.7 | 1970–1982 (2100+) | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | One-Design | 26.1 | 4.0 | 5200 | 17.2 | 1970–1982 | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | Weekender | 26.1 | 4.0 | 5200 | 17.2 | 1974–1982 | Shaw | |
| | Keel/CB | 32.9 | 4 | 7.6 | 10900 | 16.0 | 1970–1975 | Shaw | |
| | Keel/CB | Yawl | 39.3 | 4.6 | 8.9 | 17000 | 16.5/18.8 | 1970–1977 (30) | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | 29.8 | 5.0 | 8,320 | 17.3 | 1971–1980 (1185) | Shaw | |
| | Keel/CB | Center Cockpit Flush Deck | 39 | 4.3 | 7.6 | 20600 | 15.2 | 1972–1973 (40) | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | Tall Mast | 36.5 | 6.0 | 13500 | 16.5/18.5 | 1972–1976 (103+) | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | Tall Mast | 33 | 5.9 | 12441 | 15.6/16.4 | 1973–1980 (236+) | Shaw | |
| | Modified Keel | Ketch/Yawl Center Cockpit | Aft Cabin | 41.8 | 5.3 | 21000 | 13.3 | 1975–1976 | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | 28 | 4.5 or 5.0 | 7850 | 16.0 | 1975–1982 | Shaw | |
| | Centerboard | Custom | 32.2 | 3.0 | 7.7 | 11643 | 1975 (one-off) | Shaw | | |
| | Modified Keel Sloop or Ketch | 36.4 | 4.5 | 17700 | 14.5 | 1976–1982 (400+) | Shaw | |
| | Modified Keel | 32.3 | 4.4 | 12800 | 14.0 | 1976–1983 (385) | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | Fractional | 31 | 5.5 | 9400 | 16.7 | 1978–1981 (65) | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | Keel/CB | 23 | 2.3 | 4.0 | 3500 | 16.5 | 1979–1985 | Shaw | |
| | Modified Keel | Cutter Ketch | Aft Cabin | 42.3 | 5.3 | 21000 | 15.2 | 1977–1985 (225) | Shaw | |
| | Centerboard | Flush Deck Double Spreader | 39.9 | 9.4 | 4.2 | 22800 | 16.0 | 1979–1981 | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | 31.7 | 5.5 | 9400 | 17.0 | 1979–1982 (113) | Shaw | |
| | Modified Keel | Pilothouse | 36.4 | 4.5 | 17500 | 13.6 | 1979–1981 (30) | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | Fractional Flush Deck | 29.9 | 5.8 | 6235 | 21.5 | 1981–1983 | Shaw | |
| | Modified Keel | Cutter | 36.5 | 5.5 | 17700 | 14.1 | 1981–1982 (49) | Shaw | |
| | Modified Keel | Keel/CB Cutter | Center Cockpit Double Spreader | Yawl Aft Cabin | 53.6 | 5.9 | 6.8 | 43000 | 13.1 | 1981–1985 (30) | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | Double Spreader | 36.9 | 6.5 | 12800 | 18.7 | 1982–1986 (42) | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | Cat Rig | 23 | 4.0 | 3000 | 16.2 | 1983–1985 (42) | Shaw | |
| | Modified Keel | 30.3 | 4.3 | 10400 | 15.3 | 1983–1986 (100+) | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | CB Option | 33.8 | 5.9 | 3.8-7.6 | 11200 | 17.5/17.0 | 1983–1986 | Shaw | |
| | Modified Keel | Cutter Center Cockpit | Aft Cabin Ketch | 42.2 | 5.2 | 22000 | 14.7 | 1983–1987 | Shaw | |
| | Modified Keel | Center Cockpit Cutter | Aft Cabin | 38.3 | 5.5 | 20575 | 13.0 | 1984–1986 | Shaw | |
| | Modified Keel | Cutter Tall Mast | 38.3 | 5.5 | 16915 | 16.6 | 1984–1985 | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | Keel/CB | Wing Double Spreader | Aft Cabin | 36.5 | 6.5 | 4.5 4.2-8.3 | 15000 | 17.4 | 1985–1990 | Shaw | |
| | Wing Keel | Aft Cabin | 26.9 | 3.3 | 5800 | 16.4 | 1986–1991 | Shaw | |
| | Centerboard | 17.9 | 4.1 | 800 | 1984–1985 | | ||
| | Daggerboard | 21.3 | 4.7 | 1.4 | 1700 | 24.77 | 1984–1985 | | |
| | Fin Keel | Shoal Keel | 25 | 4.3 | 3.0 | 3750 | 17.08 | 1984–1985 | | |
| | Fin Keel | Shoal Keel | 27 | 5.2 | 3.1 | 6250 | 14.76 | 1984–1985 | | |
| | Fin Keel | Aft Cabin Shoal Draft Option | 28.5 | 4.8 | 3.5 | 7000 | 16.8/16.3 | 1986–1989 | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | CB Option Double Spreader | Aft Cabin | 32.5 | 5.9 | 3.6-7.0 | 11000 | 16.5/15.8 | 1986–1991 (166) | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | Keel/CB Double Spreader | Aft Cabin | 39 | 6.9 | 4.6-8.8 | 17500 | 17.1 | 1986–1991 | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | Double Spreader Wing Option | 30.8 | 5.6 | 4.0 | 10000 | 17.0 | 1987–1991 (268) | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | Wing Option Solent Rig | 37.4 | 4.7 | 16000 | 16.7 | 1988–1991 | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | Double Spreader Wing Option | 34.5 | 4.0 | 11500 | 17.3 | 1989–1991 | Shaw | |
| | Fin Keel | Double Spreader Aft Cabin | Wing Option | 37.5 | 4.8 | 15175 | 17.2 | 1989–1991 (21) | Shaw | |
Key to Sailboat Table
- Model: Pearson model name and link to line drawing.
- Type: Boat and Rig Attributes. All types are Bermuda rigged sloop, single mast with fore-and-aft sails, unless otherwise specified by Cat, Ketch, or Yawl.
- LOA: Length Over All, the maximum length of the hull, in feet, from stem to stern measuring parallel to the waterline. This does not include projections of pulpits or spars.
- Draft: Deepest extent of hull, typically bottom distance from waterline to bottom of keel.
- DISP: Displacement, the vessel's weight in pounds, calculated from the volume of water displaced by it.
- SA/D: The sail area to displacement ratio is a bench-mark to evaluate light air performance as well as heavy air conditions.
- Production: Approximate years and number produced.
- Designer: Yacht designer
- Links: Web-Page references. External sites open in new tab or window.
Specifications are approximate from Pearson Yachts.
Key to Designers
- Shaw – William H. Shaw joined Pearson Yachts in 1964 as Chief Architect, eventually running the entire Pearson Yachts Division of Grumman. During his tenure, he and his team designed over 50 different sail and power boats. Bill Shaw
- Alberg – Carl Alberg's successful career as a designer can be linked back to his partnership with Pearson Yachts and early fiberglass yacht construction. Carl Alberg
- Tripp – During the 1960s, William H. Tripp Jr. was one of America’s most successful yacht designers. Bill Tripp
- Rhodes – Philip L. Rhodes was a naval architect known for his diverse yacht designs. Philip Rhodes | Philip Rhodes Vanguard
- Tritt – Bill Tritt is a yacht builder with a keen interest in fiberglass as a material to use in boats and cars. Bill Tritt
- Alden – John G. Alden was an American naval architect and the founder of Alden Designs. John Alden
Fast Boats in Their Time
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The guy who started it all has done it again...
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Thoughts on Pearson 37 as first boat...?
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Be sure the surveyor does a through check for wet hull core, you may need to have the boat out of the water for a week or so for this to be valid, but a good surveyor wil advise on this.
I remember when these first came out.. probably the first sailboat to be offered out of the factory with a built in TV! I think the early Legend 37 did something similar. That and the microwave certainly point to a liveaboard focus... I imagine it would be comfy enough. The earlier Pearson 36 seems a nice solid boat so if this is as good as it appears and passes the acid test survey it may well suit. Ship or sail across the pond??
is it a ' blue water ' boat? Could it be sailed across the pond safely?
The 1985-1991 Pearson 36-2, 37, and 38 all share the same hull. They were meant to be well built coastal cruisers, with slightly different interiors. I believe that the Pearson 37 was introduced in 1988, and was sometimes called the "condo-boat." The interior design was developed with a lot of influence from Pearson dealers, and customers. The boat was designed for a microwave, and has wall to wall carpet installed. The captains chairs are a matter of taste... Personally, I find that this boat exemplifies the line that states; "a camel is a horse designed by committee." Disclaimer: I have never seen one in the flesh. The Pearson 36-2 is a very nice boat, with not that great engine access. If you could find one, I like the Pearson 38 the best. In all of these boats the build quality was very good, but the cored decks tended to leak around the stanchion bases (and elsewhere). This one looks particularly good in the pictures.
I love the idea of sailing it across the pond myself, though it may be somewhat of a 'baptism of fire' as I have only sailed inland waters so far... But fear not fellow members, I am not so silly and reckless to not embark on such an epic voyage without at least 1 person who knows what they are doing! As a liveaboard I like the layout, though it it not to some people's tastes (I can see why) but from a functionality point of view the layout makes a lot of sense to me, especially as a liveaboard.
D- I believe that the pic that you provided is that of a 1982-1987 Pearson 37. The boat in question is a 1988 Pearson 37-2. Similar but much different down below.
click the link above the picture It's the link to that boat that is for sale and thats where that picture came from.
David.. I think that comment was directed at Denise's post of the older Pearson drawings.. not your link earlier.
:laugher Ooops! that makes more sense now lol
- Is a Pearson 37 blue water capable/suitable?
- Are they well built (likely to still be in good shape in-spite of their age)
- How are they sail?
- How does the room (and headroom) in the forward cabin compare to the aft cabin in a hunter passage 42?
The number of Pearson 37-2 boats produced is probably ~30 (I know that the number of Pearson 38 boats was <30), so there are not many people our there that own them. As I said in my earlier post, the hull and rig for the P36-2, P37-2 and P38 was identical, and therefore they would have similar sailing characteristics. The only thing that would differentiate them is that some P36-2s had a centerboard keel, many P36-2s, and I believe all P37-2s had a fin, and most Pearson 38's (and at least one P36-2) had a winged keel.
I think it is great that you are interested in a boat, but the "across the pond" comment definitely caught my ear. I strongly recommend gradual transition beginning with learning how to sail and taking your new boat out with very experienced crew who can teach/support you. Also, classes and certifications are well worth the investment. Anyway, go slow, be safe, take shorter trips and get accustomed to the lifestyle. Then, think about long journeys. I have one friend who purchased a 169 ft. yacht to cruise with his wife and daughter (yes, 169 ft.). After a couple of months, the family decided to go back home. So, be sure your family or significant others are fully "on board" too.
Edit: My brother has kids and my sister has kids (((not together))) I have just re-read my post from 45 minuts ago and realised that some people may choose to add there own meaning lol
Does anybody know if the Pearson 37 ever made it to the UK?
David I answered you on the other forum. I know your dying for that answer and I think it's been beat to death on most all sailing forums. fin keels and spade rudders are most often found on coastal cruisers, Yes many people have made long voyages on such boats yet the full and modified keel boats are most often found on boats doing such types of trips. I'm going to say "no" on the P37 for extended blue water. (hides behind sofa after that statement)
Hi denise, ok I am beginning to understand what you mean. when I asked my original question regarding strength of construction I thinking about the overall integral structure of the boat and in the heady zeal of my newbiness hadn't even though about the different keel/rudder designs. I had 'assumed' it would be strong enough for the size of the boat as a matter of course. Hmmm... back to the classifieds...! I think the pearson 37 would be perfect for a first livaboard and some coastal cruising but evidently not built to cross the atlantic and it 'appears' that they were never brought to the UK. Shame.
BTW Bill Shaw designed his boats for specific purposes. Look at the 365/7 and 385/6 for more bluewater-oriented boats in your size range. Should be similar price range, many available on east coast.
I bought a Pearson 37-2 (the "condo model") two years ago. I've generally been very happy with her. She handles beautifully and is as fast as one might expect a cruiser to be. At 23 years old, some of the original equipment is getting a bit tired. I've installed a GPS, an inverter and new alternator to power it, and have gone to a 12v refrigerator rather than the original 120v. The original design was meant to be largely a 120v boat, which requires shorepower or running the generator. My inverter powers the (new) tv, the microwave and even the electric stove. Below she's quite comfortable, though, fortunately, the previous owner replaced the wall-to-wall carpeting with a teak and holly sole. In general, though, with some equipment upgrades, I think you'd like this boat.
Hi All, I've got a 1988 Pearson 37 (37-2) on my short list right now. I'm trying to find a good independant review of the boat. I have the two volume set of Practical Sailor reviews, but it's focus is on the earlier P37. This is the most important question I have: "Is there wood coring below the water line?". I'm also interested in any other construction details anyone has. Thanks much and fair winds, ~Stoomy
Curious to know what you have decided. I have owned a P37-2 for ten years and could not ask for a better boat for my needs. In those ten years, I have seen only 3 others and read about a couple more.
Hello, I have investigated the various different options and much as I love the Pearson37 I am yet to see one in the UK... So for now I am keeping an eye on the UK classifieds, my personal circumstances have changed somewhat but I now have a goal of April to buy a yacht as my first liveaboard. My budget will be around £25,000 and buy something in the UK, so a Pearson may well be my second yacht when I have got my yacht masters and can take several weeks off work, fly out to the states and sailing one back! Ahh, what an adventure that will be!
If I had 25K to spend in England I'd go for a nice Sigma 33.
The other options would have been either to hire a professional skipper to help prepare her for the crossing and then oversee the voyage safely or have it shipped on one of those yacht transporter boats either way it would add £5-6000 to the budget needed for the purchase price.
Yes, we see the service in RI - can't think of their name, moving boats to the BVI. That is an adventure in itself. Found my Pearson in northern Michigan and decided to move her to RI. We cruise for two weeks every July and the rest is weekend activity in Narragansett Bay. We are casually looking for our next boat so maybe by April, Nixie will be available.
Please do send me an email and perhaps I'll be in the position by then to upgrade! email is: emailme at davidblackhurst.com
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IMAGES
COMMENTS
It takes into consideration "reported" sail area, displacement and length at waterline. The higher the number the faster speed prediction for the boat. A cat with a number 0.6 is likely to sail 6kts in 10kts wind, a cat with a number of 0.7 is likely to sail at 7kts in 10kts wind. KSP = (Lwl*SA÷D)^0.5*0.5
The earlier Pearson 37 was one of 43 boats Bill Shaw designed during his 27-plus year tenure at Pearson Yachts, first as designer, later as general manager and part owner. "I designed the boat for sailors who wanted to race their boats in IOR and PHRF fleets, then jettison the crew, pick up the wife and children, and go cruising," he said.
Find Pearson 37 2 boats for sale in your area & across the world on YachtWorld. Offering the best selection of Pearson boats to choose from.
The Pearson 37 was designed to IOR racing rules, by a designer who also recognizes cruising attributes. It has the distinction of having twice won the Boat of the Year in the Gulf of Maine series. As a solid, well-built boat, the P37's racing orientation does not preclude its ability to handle offshore seas. What constitutes a cruising over a ...
Price. 1989. 37'. 12'. 4'. $55,000. Description: Step aboard the timeless maritime elegance of the 1989 Pearson 37-2, affectionately named Trinity III. This meticulously cared-for vessel, a true testament to enduring craftsmanship, goes beyond being just a boat it's a living legacy of classic charm.
The Pearson 37 is one sailboat you will honestly enjoy living aboard. Plush carpeting, swivel chairs, a full island berth, bright warm colors, good lighting, and an array of modern conveniences are just a few of the features that make this boat so inviting. Think of the Pearson 37 as a second home on the water that also sails very well.
Pearson is a yacht manufacturer that currently has 83 yachts for sale on YachtWorld, including 3 new vessels and 80 used yachts, listed by experienced boat and yacht brokers mainly in the following countries: United States, Canada, Spain, Mexico and Puerto Rico. The selection of models featured on YachtWorld spans a spectrum of sizes and ...
The Pearson 37 is a 36.92ft masthead sloop designed by William Shaw and built in fiberglass by Pearson Yachts between 1982 and 1986. 42 units have been built. The Pearson 37 is a moderate weight sailboat which is a good performer. It is very stable / stiff and has a low righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a coastal cruiser.
Pearson 37-2 is a 37′ 5″ / 11.4 m monohull sailboat designed by William Shaw and built by Pearson Yachts between 1988 and 1991. ... Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay). D: ...
Pearson 37 is a 36′ 10″ / 11.3 m monohull sailboat designed by William Shaw and built by Pearson Yachts between 1982 and 1986. Sailboat Guide. Discover; Buy; Sell; ... Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay). D: ...
The Pearson 37 is a perfect couple's cruiser featuring a large island queen in the peak. The large salon features a pull out double to port for overnight guests. ... Full Batten Main Sail w/Lazy Jacks (vacuum washed 2017) New Batt Cars (2012) Self Tailing Working Jib (installed on Harken Furler) 150% Genoa (in storage bag) Dinghy 'n Outboard.
The Pearson 37 2 is a 37.42ft masthead sloop designed by William Shaw and built in fiberglass by Pearson Yachts between 1988 and 1991. The Pearson 37 2 is a moderate weight sailboat which is a reasonably good performer. It is stable / stiff and has a good righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a coastal cruiser.
37' Pearson 37-2. Year. Length. Beam. Draft. Location. Price. 1990. 37' 12.3' 4.5' Alabama. $49,000. Description: "Makara" just had her bottom painted and now is in the water again. She is a very comfortable and capable boat is very good shape. ... Pearson Sailboats Pearson 37s Alabama Pearsons. Featured Sailboats: Home. Register & Post. View ...
Arkansas. $50,000. Description: $5,000.00 Price reduction! 1989 Pearson 37-2. CLIMATE. 18,000 BTUs total AC capacity at the dock, split between 2 units. The larger Mermaid unit was overhauled in 2022. Its a 12k BTU AC / Heater under the saloon settee, with a new thermostat and all new water lines & fittings.
The Pearson 37 is one sailboat you will honestly enjoy living aboard. , Think of the Pearson 37 as a second home on the water that also sails very well. Contact Information. Please contact Kirby Long at 707 732-6101. Other Details. Accommodations. This vessel has a very large salon for a 37 footer. There is a large galley to port with large and ...
We set out to create a top-quality sailboat that encompassed these basic attributes while still retaining the ability to perform well under sail. The result is the new Pearson 37. And the execution, I'm proud to say, has exceeded expectations. Convenience, style and comfort show up virtually everywhere on the Pearson 37.
PEARSON 37. Pearson 37 ... Key to Sailboat Table. Model: Pearson model name and link to line drawing. Type: Boat and Rig Attributes. All types are Bermuda rigged sloop, single mast with fore-and-aft sails, unless otherwise specified by Cat, Ketch, or Yawl.
The 1985-1991 Pearson 36-2, 37, and 38 all share the same hull. They were meant to be well built coastal cruisers, with slightly different interiors. I believe that the Pearson 37 was introduced in 1988, and was sometimes called the "condo-boat." The interior design was developed with a lot of influence from Pearson dealers, and customers.
Find Sail Pearson boats for sale in your area & across the world on YachtWorld. Offering the best selection of Pearson boats to choose from. ... 1989 Pearson 37-2. US$26,500. ↓ Price Drop. Napa Valley Marina Yachts | Napa, California. Request Info; New Arrival; 1989 Pearson 27. US$14,000. Rooke Sails | Buchanan, Tennessee. Request Info;
28. Contact. 707-506-0808. 1. Sort By. Filter Search. View a wide selection of Pearson 37 boats for sale in United States, explore detailed information & find your next boat on boats.com. #everythingboats.
Pearson preowned sailboats for sale by owner. Pearson used sailboats for sale by owner.
UP TO $6000 REBATE FOR SHIPPING THIS BOAT TO YOUR LOCATION !!! One of very few Pearson 37 sloops available. Great sailing characteristics.This is a comfortable boat below and underway. This boat is in excellent condition with a rebuilt Universal / Kubota 43HP diesel with low hours. The owner shipped the boat to Florida from New England and it ...
Pearson is a boat builder in the marine industry that offers boats for sale in a range of sizes on Boat Trader, with the smallest current boat listed at 26 feet in length, to the longest vessel measuring in at 53 feet, and an average length of 35 feet. Boat Trader currently has 45 Pearson boats for sale, including 1 new vessels and 44 used ...