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Sailboat Specifications

Pearson 390

Cutter · Keel/Cbrd.

Designed by William Shaw · Built by Pearson Yachts (Usa) · First built 1972

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LOA 39.00 ft  ·  Beam 13.00 ft  ·  Displacement 20,600.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 663.00 ft²  ·  Cutter  ·  Keel/Cbrd.
About the Pearson 390 Sailboat

Built during a brief two-year production run from 1972-1973, this William Shaw-designed cutter represents one of Pearson Yachts' more exclusive offerings, with only 30 hulls ever constructed. The fiberglass construction and substantial 20,600-pound displacement create a solid platform well-suited for serious coastal and offshore cruising. Shaw's design philosophy shines through in the boat's traditional proportions and seaworthy characteristics. The deep 7.80-foot draft and generous 7,500 pounds of ballast provide excellent stability and tracking ability in challenging conditions. With a comfort ratio of 29.65, this yacht delivers the steady, predictable motion that long-distance cruisers appreciate, while the low capsize screening value of 1.9 indicates strong offshore capability. The cutter rig configuration offers versatility in sail handling, allowing crews to balance power and control across varying wind conditions. The moderate sail area of 663 square feet provides respectable performance without being overpowering, while the hull's 7.78-knot theoretical hull speed suggests pleasant passage-making capability. As a limited-production yacht from Pearson's quality-focused era, the 390 appeals to sailors seeking a well-built, traditional cruising boat with proven offshore credentials and the exclusivity that comes with genuine rarity.

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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 39.00 ft / 11.89 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 33.67 ft / 10.26 m
Beam 13.00 ft / 3.96 m
Max Draft 7.80 ft / 2.38 m
Min Draft 4.25 ft / 1.30 m
Displacement 20,600.00 lb / 9,344 kg
Ballast 7,500.00 lb / 3,402 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 663.00 ft² / 61.59 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Keel/Cbrd.
Rigging Type Cutter
Construction FG
Designer William Shaw
Builder Pearson Yachts (USA)
First Built 1972
Last Built 1973
Number Built 30
Associations Pearson Yacht Owners Portal
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Perkins
Engine Model A108
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 55
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Pearson 390's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Pearson 390 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 14.17. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Pearson 390's comfort ratio?

The Pearson 390 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 29.65. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Pearson 390 safe for offshore sailing?

The Pearson 390 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.9. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Pearson 390?

The theoretical hull speed of the Pearson 390 is 7.78 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Pearson 390 weigh?

The Pearson 390 has a displacement of 20,600.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 39.00 ft.

Who designed the Pearson 390?

The Pearson 390 was designed by William Shaw, first built in 1972.