Pearson 26 vs Pearson Vanguard
How do the Pearson 26 and Pearson Vanguard compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Pearson 26 
Pearson Vanguard | Pearson 26 | Pearson Vanguard | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 26.2 ft7.98 m | 32.8 ft10.00 m |
| Waterline length | 21.7 ft6.61 m | 22.4 ft6.83 m |
| Beam | 8.7 ft2.64 m | 9.3 ft2.83 m |
| Draft | 4.0 ft1.22 m | 4.5 ft1.37 m |
| Displacement | 5,400 lb2,449 kg | 10,300 lb4,672 kg |
| Ballast | 2,200 lb998 kg | 4,250 lb1,928 kg |
| Sail area | 322 ft²29.9 m² | 469 ft²43.6 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 16.74 | 15.85 |
| Displacement / Length | 237 | 409 |
| Comfort ratio | 20.4 | 32.0 |
| Capsize screening | 1.98 | 1.71 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.2 | 6.3 |
Pearson 26 vs Pearson Vanguard: the short version
- The Pearson Vanguard is the larger boat at 32.8 ft10.00 m LOA versus 26.2 ft7.98 m for the Pearson 26.
- The Pearson Vanguard is heavier, displacing about 91% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Pearson 26 carries the more powerful rig (16.7 vs 15.9), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Pearson Vanguard scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Pearson Vanguard rates better for offshore work (1.71 vs 1.98).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.