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Sailboat Specifications

Pearson 36 Cutter

Cutter · Fin With Rudder On Skeg

Designed by William Shaw · Built by Pearson Yachts · First built 1981

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LOA 36.42 ft  ·  Beam 11.50 ft  ·  Displacement 17,700.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 599.00 ft²  ·  Cutter  ·  Fin With Rudder On Skeg
About the Pearson 36 Cutter Sailboat

Built during Pearson Yachts' heyday in the 1970s, this 36-foot cutter represents the Rhode Island builder's commitment to solid construction and traditional sailing virtues. The cutter rig configuration sets this model apart from many of its contemporaries, offering enhanced sail handling flexibility and improved balance in varying wind conditions. Pearson's reputation for building robust, seaworthy vessels is well-represented in this design. The company was known for constructing boats that could handle serious offshore work while remaining manageable for coastal cruising. The cutter rig particularly shines in this regard, allowing crews to reduce sail area progressively by dropping the jib and sailing under staysail and main, or to fine-tune sail plans for optimal performance. This design appeals to sailors seeking a capable passage-maker that doesn't sacrifice comfort for seaworthiness. The traditional lines and practical layout reflect Pearson's understanding of what cruising sailors actually need. While not built for racing, the boat offers respectable performance under sail with the reliability that made Pearson a trusted name among serious cruisers. The robust construction and proven design make it suitable for extended coastal cruising and capable offshore passages.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 36.42 ft / 11.10 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 30.00 ft / 9.14 m
Beam 11.50 ft / 3.51 m
Max Draft 5.50 ft / 1.68 m
Displacement 17,700.00 lb / 8,029 kg
Ballast 7,300.00 lb / 3,311 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 599.00 ft² / 55.65 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Cutter
Construction FG
Designer William Shaw
Builder Pearson Yachts
First Built 1981
Last Built 1982
Related Sailboats Pearson 367 · Pearson 365 · Catalina 36 · Cs 36 · Pearson 36 2
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Pearson 36 Cutter's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Pearson 36 Cutter has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 14.16. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Pearson 36 Cutter's comfort ratio?

The Pearson 36 Cutter has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 33.13. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Pearson 36 Cutter safe for offshore sailing?

The Pearson 36 Cutter has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.77. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Pearson 36 Cutter?

The theoretical hull speed of the Pearson 36 Cutter is 7.34 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Pearson 36 Cutter weigh?

The Pearson 36 Cutter has a displacement of 17,700.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 36.42 ft.

Who designed the Pearson 36 Cutter?

The Pearson 36 Cutter was designed by William Shaw, first built in 1981.