Pearson 303 vs Pearson Vanguard
How do the Pearson 303 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 303 | Pearson 303 | Pearson Vanguard | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 30.3 ft9.23 m | 32.8 ft10.00 m |
| Waterline length | 25.4 ft7.73 m | 22.4 ft6.83 m |
| Beam | 10.9 ft3.33 m | 9.3 ft2.83 m |
| Draft | 4.3 ft1.32 m | 4.5 ft1.37 m |
| Displacement | 10,100 lb4,581 kg | 10,300 lb4,672 kg |
| Ballast | 3,500 lb1,588 kg | 4,250 lb1,928 kg |
| Sail area | 459 ft²42.6 m² | 469 ft²43.6 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 15.72 | 15.85 |
| Displacement / Length | 276 | 409 |
| Comfort ratio | 24.1 | 32.0 |
| Capsize screening | 2.02 | 1.71 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.7 | 6.3 |
Pearson 303 vs Pearson Vanguard: the short version
- The Pearson Vanguard is the larger boat at 32.8 ft10.00 m LOA versus 30.3 ft9.23 m for the Pearson 303.
- On sail area/displacement the Pearson Vanguard carries the more powerful rig (15.9 vs 15.7), 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 2.02).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.