1981 Pearson 323 Pearson

Timeless Design for Affordable Cruising!

Designer Bill Shaw drew this vessel in the mid-70's, when the IOR rules were reigning supreme.  But, Shaw struck a winning approach here, as evidenced by 385 of these boats being built and sold between 1976 and 1983, with a design that emphasized comfortable sailing with good performance.  Her encapsulated cruising fin keel and skeg-mounted rudder provide comfort and safety in all conditions.  Yet, she can reach 5 knots on a beam or close reach in just 8 knots of true wind.  Her layout below makes ergonomic sense, especially the creative approach to the design of the head - a "pass-through" space just aft of the V berth forward, complete with shower.  

She sleeps 5 (2 in forward V berth, 2 via the dropdown salon table to starboard, and 1 on the port settee).  Her 2-reefs mainsail is easily managed with lazy jacks.  And the furling headsail is designed to maintain good shape when partially furled.