Pearson Ensign vs Pearson Vanguard
How do the Pearson Ensign 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 Ensign 
Pearson Vanguard | Pearson Ensign | Pearson Vanguard | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 22.5 ft6.86 m | 32.8 ft10.00 m |
| Waterline length | 16.8 ft5.11 m | 22.4 ft6.83 m |
| Beam | 7.0 ft2.13 m | 9.3 ft2.83 m |
| Draft | 3.0 ft0.91 m | 4.5 ft1.37 m |
| Displacement | 3,000 lb1,361 kg | 10,300 lb4,672 kg |
| Ballast | 1,200 lb544 kg | 4,250 lb1,928 kg |
| Sail area | 235 ft²21.8 m² | 469 ft²43.6 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 18.08 | 15.85 |
| Displacement / Length | 285 | 409 |
| Comfort ratio | 18.8 | 32.0 |
| Capsize screening | 1.94 | 1.71 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.5 | 6.3 |
Pearson Ensign vs Pearson Vanguard: the short version
- The Pearson Vanguard is the larger boat at 32.8 ft10.00 m LOA versus 22.5 ft6.86 m for the Pearson Ensign.
- The Pearson Vanguard is heavier, displacing about 243% 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 15.9), 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 1.94).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.