Pearson 303 vs Pearson Ensign
How do the Pearson 303 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 303 
Pearson Ensign | Pearson 303 | Pearson Ensign | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 30.3 ft9.23 m | 22.5 ft6.86 m |
| Waterline length | 25.4 ft7.73 m | 16.8 ft5.11 m |
| Beam | 10.9 ft3.33 m | 7.0 ft2.13 m |
| Draft | 4.3 ft1.32 m | 3.0 ft0.91 m |
| Displacement | 10,100 lb4,581 kg | 3,000 lb1,361 kg |
| Ballast | 3,500 lb1,588 kg | 1,200 lb544 kg |
| Sail area | 459 ft²42.6 m² | 235 ft²21.8 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 15.72 | 18.08 |
| Displacement / Length | 276 | 285 |
| Comfort ratio | 24.1 | 18.8 |
| Capsize screening | 2.02 | 1.94 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.7 | 5.5 |
Pearson 303 vs Pearson Ensign: the short version
- The Pearson 303 is the larger boat at 30.3 ft9.23 m LOA versus 22.5 ft6.86 m for the Pearson Ensign.
- The Pearson 303 is heavier, displacing about 237% 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 15.7), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Pearson 303 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 2.02).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.