1978 Pearson 31 Pearson

Step aboard this late‑70s Pearson 31 and you immediately notice the solid, no‑nonsense build that made this era so respected. The cockpit is deep and secure, with coamings high enough to keep the crew comfortable on a breezy afternoon. Side decks are generous, making it easy to move forward to handle ground tackle or tweak the headsail. Down below, the layout is simple and practical: real wood joinery, proper sea berths, and enough headroom to move around without feeling cramped. Lines are typically led for straightforward sail handling, and the rig’s proportions give you a forgiving sail plan that’s easy to reef when the breeze pipes up. It’s the sort of boat that invites you to learn, tinker, and gradually stretch your cruising horizons.

A Pearson 31 is particularly well suited to the mixed conditions often found on inland lakes and protected coastal waters. Its moderate displacement and hull shape give it a reassuring, steady motion when afternoon chop builds, while still being lively enough to ghost along in lighter morning breezes. The sail plan balances easily, so short‑handed crews can manage gusty days without drama. With a manageable draft and sensible tankage, it’s comfortable for weekends at a quiet anchorage as well as quick evening sails after work. The size hits a sweet spot: big enough to feel like a “real” cruising boat, yet small enough to dock, maintain, and store without headaches.