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Sailboat Specifications

Pearson 422

Cutter · Fin With Rudder On Skeg

Designed by William Shaw · Built by Pearson Yachts (Usa) · First built 1982

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LOA 42.16 ft  ·  Beam 13.00 ft  ·  Displacement 22,000.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 662.00 ft²  ·  Cutter  ·  Fin With Rudder On Skeg
About the Pearson 422 Sailboat

Built from 1982 to 1987 by Pearson Yachts, this William Shaw-designed cruising sailboat represents quality American boatbuilding during the company's prime years. With only 39 hulls produced during its five-year run, the 422 remains a relatively rare find on the used boat market. Shaw's design philosophy shines through in the boat's balanced proportions and seaworthy characteristics. The fin keel with rudder on skeg configuration provides excellent directional stability while maintaining good maneuverability in tight quarters. At 22,000 pounds displacement with nearly 35% ballast ratio, this substantial cruiser offers the stability and comfort serious sailors expect for extended passages. The cutter rig configuration enhances versatility, allowing crews to balance sail area effectively in varying conditions while providing redundancy for offshore work. With a moderate comfort ratio of 30.84 and conservative capsize screening value of 1.86, the design prioritizes seaworthiness over speed, making it well-suited for coastal and offshore cruising. The fiberglass construction typical of Pearson's era emphasizes durability over weight savings. While not a performance-oriented design, the 422's solid build quality and thoughtful engineering have earned respect among cruising sailors who value reliability and sea-keeping ability over racing credentials.

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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 42.16 ft / 12.85 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 33.67 ft / 10.26 m
Beam 13.00 ft / 3.96 m
Max Draft 5.25 ft / 1.60 m
Displacement 22,000.00 lb / 9,979 kg
Ballast 7,634.00 lb / 3,463 kg
Ballast Type Lead
Sail Area (Reported) 662.00 ft² / 61.50 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Cutter
Construction FG
Designer William Shaw
Builder Pearson Yachts (USA)
First Built 1982
Last Built 1987
Number Built 39
Associations Pearson Yacht Owners Portal
Related Sailboats Passport 42 · Valiant 42 · Hylas 42 · Endeavour 42 · Niagara 42
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 50
Fuel Capacity 80 gals / 303 L
Water Capacity 160 gals / 606 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Pearson 422's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Pearson 422 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 13.54. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Pearson 422's comfort ratio?

The Pearson 422 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 30.84. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Pearson 422 safe for offshore sailing?

The Pearson 422 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.86. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Pearson 422?

The theoretical hull speed of the Pearson 422 is 7.78 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Pearson 422 weigh?

The Pearson 422 has a displacement of 22,000.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 42.16 ft.

Who designed the Pearson 422?

The Pearson 422 was designed by William Shaw, first built in 1982.