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Pearson 36
Designer: William Shaw  ·  Builder: Pearson Yachts  ·  First built: 1972
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About the Pearson 36

With a reputation built over decades of reliable service, this classic American cruiser emerged from Pearson Yachts during an era when solid fiberglass construction and practical sailing characteristics defined successful production boats. The design reflects the company's commitment to creating seaworthy vessels that could handle both coastal cruising and longer passages with confidence. Known for its sturdy build quality and traditional sailing manners, this model appeals to sailors who value dependability over cutting-edge performance. The boat's moderate proportions and well-balanced sail plan make it forgiving for less experienced crews while still providing satisfying performance for seasoned sailors. Its spacious interior layout typically accommodates extended cruising with reasonable comfort, though amenities reflect the practical approach common to boats of its generation. Pearson's reputation for solid construction means many of these boats remain actively sailed today, testament to their durability and seaworthiness. While not designed for racing, the boat performs admirably in cruising conditions and has proven itself capable of offshore passages. For sailors seeking a traditional cruising boat with a proven track record, this model represents the reliable, no-nonsense approach that made Pearson a respected name in American boatbuilding.

Market Price Estimate Beta
$19,900 – $49,000
typical asking price
Median $33,700  ·  14 listings used
All listings
$19,900 – $49,000 14
Rate a listing price
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About this estimate
  • Prices are based on recent asking prices from public listings — not actual sale prices, which are typically lower.
  • Condition is not factored in. A well-maintained boat with new sails and engine can be worth significantly more than a project boat of the same model.
  • Location affects price. Boats in landlocked states or areas with fewer buyers often sell for less than those on the coast.
  • Year of manufacture is not filtered. Older examples of this model will generally be priced lower than newer ones.
  • Included equipment varies widely. A boat with a full suite of electronics, dodger, and new standing rigging may command a large premium.
  • Outliers are automatically excluded using statistical filtering to improve accuracy, but some bad data may remain.
Core Dimensions
LOA (Length Overall) 36.56 ft / 11.14 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 29.16 ft / 8.89 m
Beam 11.08 ft / 3.38 m
Max Draft 6.00 ft / 1.83 m
Displacement 13,500.00 lb / 6,123 kg
Ballast 6,100.00 lb / 2,767 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 601.00 ft² / 55.83 m²
Headroom 6.33 ft / 1.93 m
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG w/balsa cored deck
Designer William Shaw
Builder Pearson Yachts
First Built 1972
Last Built 1976
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Performance Ratios
PHRF Rating PHRF (Performance Handicap Racing Fleet) is a national racing handicap measured in seconds per nautical mile. Lower values indicate faster boats. Ratings are sourced from US Sailing's national database (median across 60+ regional fleets).
Under 0 — Ultralight racer0–90 — Performance racer90–150 — Cruiser/racer150–210 — Typical cruiserOver 210 — Heavy/slow cruiser
138
SA/Displacement Sail Area to Displacement ratio measures how much sail power a boat has relative to its weight. Higher values mean more performance and speed.
Under 14 — Heavy cruiser, slow14–18 — Cruising sailboat18–22 — Cruiser/racerOver 22 — Performance racer
17.02
Comfort Ratio Ted Brewer's Comfort Ratio predicts how comfortable a boat will feel in offshore conditions. Higher values mean a steadier, more comfortable motion in a seaway.
Under 20 — Uncomfortably rough20–30 — Acceptable coastal30–40 — Good offshore comfortOver 40 — Very comfortable offshore
27.01
Capsize Screening Formula The USHS Capsize Screening Formula estimates offshore capsize risk. Lower is safer — values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing.
Under 2.0 — Safe for offshore2.0–2.2 — Borderline offshoreOver 2.2 — Coastal use recommended
1.86
Hull Speed Hull Speed is the theoretical maximum speed of a displacement hull, calculated from waterline length. Most cruising sailboats reach this speed in moderate conditions. 7.24
S# (Speed Number) The Speed Number (S#) is a quick performance index. Higher values indicate a faster, more powerful design relative to its size.
Under 3.0 — Slow cruiser3.0–5.0 — Average cruiser5.0–7.0 — Performance cruiserOver 7.0 — Racer
2.24
Pounds/Inch Immersion Pounds per Inch Immersion (PPI) tells you how much weight is needed to sink the boat one inch. Useful for calculating how additional gear and stores affect waterline. 1.0
Rig Dimensions
I (Foretriangle Height) 46.0
J (Foretriangle Base) 14.83
P (Mainsail Luff) 40.5
E (Mainsail Foot) 12.83
SA Fore 341.09
SA Main 259.81
Resources & Community
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