Pearson 26 vs Pearson Ensign
How do the Pearson 26 and Pearson Ensign compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Pearson 26 
Pearson Ensign | Pearson 26 | Pearson Ensign | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 26.2 ft7.98 m | 22.5 ft6.86 m |
| Waterline length | 21.7 ft6.61 m | 16.8 ft5.11 m |
| Beam | 8.7 ft2.64 m | 7.0 ft2.13 m |
| Draft | 4.0 ft1.22 m | 3.0 ft0.91 m |
| Displacement | 5,400 lb2,449 kg | 3,000 lb1,361 kg |
| Ballast | 2,200 lb998 kg | 1,200 lb544 kg |
| Sail area | 322 ft²29.9 m² | 235 ft²21.8 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 16.74 | 18.08 |
| Displacement / Length | 237 | 285 |
| Comfort ratio | 20.4 | 18.8 |
| Capsize screening | 1.98 | 1.94 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.2 | 5.5 |
Pearson 26 vs Pearson Ensign: the short version
- The Pearson 26 is the larger boat at 26.2 ft7.98 m LOA versus 22.5 ft6.86 m for the Pearson Ensign.
- The Pearson 26 is heavier, displacing about 80% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Pearson Ensign carries the more powerful rig (18.1 vs 16.7), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Pearson 26 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Pearson Ensign rates better for offshore work (1.94 vs 1.98).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.