pearson ensign sailboat

Pearson Yachts Portal

The Pearson Ensign : 1962 – Present

Originally called The Electra Day Sailer , the Ensign is a Carl Alberg design

Time-honored Reliability

The Ensign hull design by Carl Alberg is based on the Pearson Electra . He modified the design for the Ensign in response to customer demand for a day-sailer with a larger cockpit and smaller cabin. Pearson Yachts was the only builder of the boat from 1962-1983 with 1775 boats constructed before ceasing production. Production was resumed in 2001 by Ensign Spars, Inc. of Dunedin Florida, where reportedly another 33 boats, (hull #2000 and above), have been produced as of 2019.

Consider this: The Ensign is the only sailboat from Pearson Yachts that is still in production today — and Pearson has been closed for close to 3 decades. Now isn't that a true test of time!

The Ensign is by far the largest one-design fleet of full-keel sailboats in the country. It was inducted into the American Sailboat Hall of Fame in 2002.

"Consider what has made the Ensign so popular… a large eight foot cockpit with full length teak seats so perfect for the safety and convenience of a large family; a twin-berth cuddy cabin with optional head for those overnights or weekends; national recognition as a one-design racing class; longevity of manufacturer; strict class rules for uniformity; Pearson Quality "! Pearson Yachts Inc.

More than 1700 ENSIGNS are sailing nationwide in a strong, active one-design association numbering 47 fleets in 20 states (1979). Rigid class rules insure continuity of design and manufacture thereby enhancing resale value. Her remarkable ability to race well while providing all the comfort and stability required of a good day-sailer or weekender has endeared here to hundreds of experts and novices everywhere.

Since the class was introduced in 1962, the ENSIGN has proven herself to be the ideal all-around family boat. Her ability, seaworthiness, and forgiving attitude have encouraged numerous people of all ages to "take to the water" for those precious leisure hours while providing those with a competitive spirit with a bonafide compromise between the thrill of racing and the lure of cruising.

Ask many of the experts now racing larger boats and they tell you it all started with the ENSIGN. Ask present ENSIGN owners, they tell you how difficult it is to find another boat that dollar for dollar represents the real value they presently enjoy.

If the ENSIGN will be your first boat, you can start with confidence — confidence in your boat and your investment. If it's your next boat you can rest assured that she will bring out the best of your experience.

Consider what has made the Ensign so popular… a large eight foot cockpit with full length teak seats so perfect for the safety and convenience of a large family; a twin-berth cuddy cabin with optional head for those overnights or weekends; national recognition as a one-design racing class; longevity of manufacturer; strict class rules for uniformity; Pearson Quality!

Pearson Yachts Inc. 1979

Ensign … one design sensation

Pearson Yachts 1961

Pearson Ensign – by the Numbers

Hover on hyperlink for definitions

• Construction Detail

Rev 9 - 26-Feb-1992

Standard Equipment

CONSTRUCTION: Hull and deck are integrally molded fiberglass laminate construction (hand lay-up) with bonded bulkheads. Deck is balsa-core fiberglass for strength, rigidity, and insulation. Teak coamings with winch mount areas. Teak seats and cockpit sole.

HARDWARE AND DECK FITTINGS: Chromeplated brass or bronze, stainless steel and special marine alloys. Stainless steel stemhead fittings, backstay and shroud chainplates. Bow cleats with chocks (P &S), stern cleats (P &S). Two fixed ports.

SPARS: MAST: Anodized aluminum 6061-T6 alloy with aluminum spreaders. Rigging fittings of stainless steel and aluminum alloy. Cleats for main, jib and downhaul. Gooseneck track, sail track and gate.

BOOM: Anodized aluminum 6061-T6 alloy with standard gooseneck, slide, topping lift fitting and mainsheet blocks.

STANDING RIGGING: Seven/eighths foretriangle rig (fractional). Stainless steel 1 x 19 construction with swaged tru-loc end fittings. Turnbuckles on all shrouds and stays. Toggles on headstay and shrouds.

RUNNING RIGGING: Main and jib halyards of 7 x 19 stainless steel wire with Dacron tails (spliced). Dacron jib and main sheets. Jib sheet lead blocks and cleats. Main sheet blocks and cleats.

INTERIOR: Provision for two full-length bunks in cuddy cabin.

SAFETY EQUIPMENT: All standing rigging and spars are grounded for lightning protection. Non-skid deck and cabin top.

Pearson Yachts Inc. 1962

Ensign Class Association

The Ensign Class Association was founded in 1962. It is one of the strongest national organizations in the country, with numerous local fleets from coast to coast.

The objectives of the assocation:

• To promote and develop Ensign Class racing under uniform rules.
• To rigidly maintain the one-design features of the Ensign.
• To promote use of the Ensign as a family boat for recreational sailing.
• To educate the public, and particularly the youth, in sailing and sailboat racing.

Features described by the association:

• It's a great looking boat, with classic lines, and a wonderfully large, deep cockpit where passengers feel comfortable, safe, and secure.
• It has a sail plan that achieves hull speed in breezes as low as eight to ten knots, and a full keel that delivers performance when the boat is sailed flat, and forgiveness when allowed to heel.
• It is a strong, durable boat, affordable to buy and easy to sell.
• There are not many designs that get everything so right
• For these reasons, the Ensign, on January 25th, 2002, was the first boat inducted into the American Sailboat Hall of Fame.

Ensign Resources

• Pearson Ensign One-Page Flyer
• Ensign Drawing
• Line Drawing
• Ensign Specifications
• Factory Installed Equipment
• Factory Options

Ensign On The Web

• Class Association - Ensign Class
• Ship's Store - Ensign Class
• Ensign Classic - EnsignSpars.com
• The Pearson Ensign - MainBoats.com Fleet 67
• Ensign Fleet 72 - SailSaratoga.org
• Pearson Ensign - Wikipedia.com
• Restoration of #1484 - Eraser
• Invictus #748 - Ensign Class Story
• The Other Woman - Ensign Class Story
• Ensign Specs - SailBoatData.com
• Pearson Info - dan.pfeiffer.net
• American Sailboat Hall of Fame - Archive.org

Pearson Ensign Brochures

Click to enlarge

In 1962 Carl Alberg designed the Ensign as a family daysailer and one-design racer. The Ensign design was a development of a previous Alberg design called the Electra, which had larger accommodations but a smaller cockpit.

If you are not familiar with Carl Alberg I can tell you that he distinguished himself as the designer of capable and fast boats back in the days when the line between racer and cruiser was not so distinctly drawn. The conventional-looking Alberg 35 is today sought after as a tough cruising boat. In 1963, however, many races were won in Alberg 35s. Alberg was not a very adventurous designer. His boats all tend to look the same, i.e., flat sheers, cutaway full keels, long overhangs and slablike topsides with firm bilges.

With 1,776 Ensigns built by Pearson between 1962 and 1983, interest in the boat waned and production was stopped. But as the market filled up with daysailers that required life jackets and crash helmets, the search for a safe and sane daysailer resulted in renewed interest in the Ensign. Today there are 45 active fleets in the United States.

In 1995 Zeke Durica of Dunedin, Florida, set up a shop, Ensign Spars Inc., to supply replacement parts to the aging fleet of Ensigns. This led to the purchase of the original molds and, this past year, the taking of orders for new Ensigns. The new Classic Ensigns began at hull number 2,000 and are available on a semicustom basis. Two are currently in the water with numbers three and four on the way.

If you wonder what has made the Ensign such a durable design I would have to say it boils down to that big, deep cockpit, the generous displacement and the stiffness of the boat in terms of stability. This stiffness comes from a hull shape with a wide BWL, a firm turn to the bilge and 1,200 pounds of internal lead ballast. That's a ballast-to-displacement ratio of 40 percent. Interestingly, the original construction drawing from 1962 calls for 2,000 pounds of ballast.

The long overhangs are an artifact of the old CCA rule where a boat's sailing length was approximated by a waterline taken 7-percent of beam above the DWL. This rule produced short DWLs with the justification that once a boat heels over its sailing length is increased. Well, in some cases maybe. Nonetheless this was once the look du jour and pretty much reigned until the IMS reintroduced short ends and longer DWLs. The D/L of the Ensign is 213.

Take a look at that keel. It sure is long, but if you go back a few decades and look at 12-meters like Vim and Columbia you will see a family resemblance, although the Ensign keel is proportionally much longer.

The original drawings show a head nestled between the V-berths. If you do go cruising in your Ensign you will have to cook in the cockpit. You might also want to consider the optional doors for the cuddy cabin. (my computer's spell check always wants that to be "cruddy cabin"). There is enough room below to put a small table between the berths. But I'm not sure there is sufficient sitting headroom to make the table useful. I suspect not. Oh well, a toasted cheese sandwich and a bowl of tomato soup can be cradled in your lap easily. If the rain you can hope for an invite over to the Swan 65 anchored nearby.

I used to fantasize about sending my two boys off to go cruising on a boat like this. Now they just tell me, "We're taking the boat out, Dad," and there goes my boat. I couldn't be more proud. I think proper seamanship is best learned when you reduce the mechanical-electrical variables.

I wish Zeke the best of luck with his new Classic Ensign.

Also in Perry on Design

• Wallyrocket 51
• Clubswan 28
• Beneteau Oceanis 37.1
• M.A.T. 12.2
• Jeanneau Yachts 55

Also from Robert H. Perry

Cruising version of the Pearson Ensign

22' 3" 22' 6" 16' 9" 3' 0" 29' 9"

outboard 3 to 6 hp 40%

Carl Alberg Pearson Yachts 1960-1965 227 sq. ft. portable portable

Min./max. draft: Bridge clearance: Power: B/D ratio:

Designer: Builder:

Years produced: Sail area: Fuel tankage: Water tankage:

Approx. trailering wgt.: 4,600 lbs.

This early fiberglass Alberg design was introduced the year after the ground-breaking 29-foot Pearson Triton hit the ways in 1959, and was one of the very first small fiberglass cruising sailboats. In those days the marketers weren't always sure what the market would bear, so the Electra at first was sold as a basic two-berth overnighter, with extra-cost options that would make her a full-fledged cruiser (forward berths, galley, icebox, toilet, etc.). The Pearson Ensign 22 (page 191), a weekend version using the same hull but featuring a larger cockpit and smaller cabin, followed in 1962, and turned out to be much more popular than the Electra. Best features: The Electra, being a near clone of the Ensign, has many of the same stats, which make her relatively fast for her day (though definitely not faster relative to more recent designs). Some say she is better looking than many of the cruisers in her size range. Worst features: Compared to the Hunter 22, her comp other than the Ensign, she generally has less headroom. Her draft is deep enough for casual racing, but wouldn't stand up to many deeper-draft keelboats or shallower boats with centerboards (unless her extremely high PHRF rating could be brought to bear).

Continue reading here: Overnighter version of the Pearson Electra

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Related Posts

• Early and smallest Pearson racercruiser
• LOD and LOA - Cruising Sailboats Reference
• One Hundred Choices for the Best Small Cruiser
• Average PHRF Rating - Cruising Sailboats Reference

Readers' Questions

Can a pearson 22 ensign go in the water on a trailor or does it need a lift to get in the water?

A Pearson 22 Ensign can be launched from a trailer, but it would be beneficial to have a lift to help lower it into the water.

What type off hull is on my ensign cruiser?

The type of hull on an Ensign Cruiser is typically a deep V-hull. This type of hull is designed for improved stability and performance in rough water.

Where would i find the serial number on my peirson ensign sailboat?

The serial number should be located on the aft side of the boat on the starboard side. Look for a label, sticker or stamp engraved in the fiberglass. It may be on the transom or just forward of the transom. It may also be stamped in a bulkhead or on the hull bottom near the centerline. It should be in the range of 9-15 digits.

SPECIFICATIONS

• DESCRIPTION

(SOLD) 2008 Pearson Ensign Classic

Just Offered

Here you go!

Rare, newer, Ensign Spars Classic. Those who may already be members of the Ensign cult need no introduction.  Note: This is not an older Pearson Ensign (see below)

For those who aren't as familiar: "The original Ensign was designed by Carl Alberg and built by Pearson Yachts of Bristol, Rhode Island. From 1962 to 1983, Pearson built 1776 Ensigns. In the following 18 years the only Ensigns that were available were existing boats. That all changed in the year 2000, when Ensign Spars, Inc. became the official licensed builder of the new Ensign Classic. Through a unique arrangement with the Ensign Class Association, Ensign Spars is the only official licensed builder of the new Ensign Classic. Built to original specifications, the Ensign Classic is the same boat Pearson Yachts built; a design that has lasted through the years, making old, restored Ensigns competitive with new Ensigns built by Ensign Spars."

More details to come, but feel free to call for more information

Trailer available

Honda outboard included

• Manufacturer: Pearson
• Model: Ensign Classic
• Category: Sail
• Condition: Used
• Location: Freeport US
• Hull Material: Fiberglass
• Length: 23 ft
• Draft - max: 3 ft
• Fresh Water Tank:
• Holding Tank:

DESCRIPTIONS

Disclaimer The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.

PRESENTED BY

Dimillo's yacht sales, get brochure.

Fill out the form below to download the PDF brochure for 2008 Pearson Ensign Classic

We have received your request and a representative will contact you shortly.

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Pearson Ensign: a Collector's item???

• Add to quote

i've been eyeing an ensign for years (since i was in high school) i don't plan on buying one anytime soon, though my father may in a few years gearing for retirement. BUC values place ensigns of the mid 60's to 1970 from $3k-5k tops (bristol condition is 20% over a valued $4100)... ensigns are from RI, and the are plentiful in New England. However, a non-restored but decent ensign (by no means "bristol") regularly go for a min. $5000. a "bristol" or pretty somewhat restored ensign runs at least $10k, fully restored going for over $20k easily. is this a niche market? is there some rennaissance going on with the ensign, or is it just high demand for a solid, pretty classic, and commands a high price tag? for $4k-5k, can a decent ensign be bought, and cleaned up without heavy investment? i'll put in the elbow grease, but don't have the skill/expertise to do major work. anyone have any ideas?  

There are supposedly around 40 fleets nationally that race the Ensign, and this is going to lead to significant investments by some to keep even a 22 footer in "racing spec." Additionally, the boat may be becoming a favorite of "downsizing" sailors and racers, who feel the Ensign is like a sensible man's Alerion Express, but then invest in the boat in a nonsensical way. Either way, it proves that you can put 10s of thousands into a mid-60s 22 footer, if you hire professional help. In the end, the boat is still less expensive than any "new" 25 footer. One idea-- an Ensign shouldn't be that hard to trailer, right? If so, why not make your search national, and build in a possible X-country road trip as part of the adventure. I've seen Ensigns here in the NW in the price range you note-- it may be that they are expensive/collectable in only certain areas. Jim H  

yes.... this is true- the alerion series sorta sparked off the daysailer yacht craze- now hinckley, morris, and and the friendship have all taken the daysailer thing to the $500,000+ level. ridiculous. the alerion, along with the tofinou and other beautiful classic daysailers, probably have contributed to the increased demand for an ensign- you're right. i'm probably gonna start looking for a solid hull fixer upper in the next few years. need a shed to put it in to fix'er up (not yet built- years away) but wouldn't hurt to buy a decent boat and shrink-wrap it for a while. i ran across this fella- http://www.tritondaysailor.com/ he really took a triton, ripped it apart, and turned it into quite the classic day boat- almost (if not) on par with those $100,000+ daysailers that are hot on the market these days. it got my mind back on the idea of fixing one of the classic alberg pearsons up. anybody got anything to add?  

compare to the alerion 26- http://www.proper-yachts.com/alerion26.htm one hull is 2006. one hull is four decades older. wow.  

I believe that you should be able to get one in pretty good shape in that range. But like all old boats, you will have to sink money into it to maintain it. I had one for several years and found it to be a great family daysailer. Not fast by today's standards but a large comfortable cockpit and sufficiently stiff. Not great in light air, though. By the way, someone bought the molds and is selling them new. But I think that would cost somewhere in the twenties, which defeats the purpose, I guess.  

Beyond that, check out the article titled "Gordie's World" in the June issue of Latitude 38. It's a great article about a guy who bought a 38 year-old Santana 27, and then rebuilt and resigned it to be a go-fast sled design, with plumb bow, new keel, new rig, new cockpit, articulated sprit pole, the whole nine yards. In the end, the cost was about 1/3rd that of a new go-fast boat, but don't ask how many hours were involved. His point was that there are a lot of good boats out there heading for the dumpster, that could be brought back to beyond original spec. I believe the the original cost of the boat was $1,000 after he sold off some unneeded parts, but then about $30k was invested over 2.5 years. 50 gallons of resin, a roll of fiberglass, kevlar cloth, carbon fibre... you get the idea. Jim H  

Ensigns are Great boats Ensigns can be found in every state of (dis)repair, ranging in price from $500 (a total fixer-upper) to $18,000 for a race ready, or very seaworthy, boat. I race competitively, and have about $25,000 in mine. Over 40 active fleets are located up and down the eastern and gulf coasts, but the highest population is in New England. However, the Houston Yacht Club has 35 boats in its harbor and Denver Colorado also has a populous fleet. The class website is ensignclass dot com where numerous boats are listed for sale. It is a great daysailor, with room for 8 people in the cockpit, though it is raced with a crew of four. It draws three feet and is great for shallow bays and steep chop. It has very classic lines, and was one of the first designs inducted into the Classic Boat Hall of Fame. The National Championship attracts up to 40 boats every year. A very nice sailing boat, it tacks through 75 degrees in a breeze and 85 to 90 in light winds. A full complement of sails should include a main, a blade (great for day sailing), a #2 genoa (18 - 25 knots of wind), a #1 genoa (0 - 18 knots of wind), and a spinnaker. Potential problem areas are the chain plates (water leakage), the deck (water leakage through hardware mounting holes, if not done properly), the bulkhead, and the sole (the keel stepped mast rests on the sole inside the cabin, and the rig will not hold tension if this is soft). If the sole is soft, a permanent and lasting repair can be achieved by replacing it with a 1" solid fiberglass plate. The combing boards add much rigidity to the boat and should be maintained or replaced when they are in bad condition. Properly maintained, they will last a very long time. There are fiberglass floorboard and seats available for a low maintenance boat and the minimum weight for the boat is 2900 lbs. After repairing any soft spots in the deck, all hardware should be mounted by drilling oversized holes, filling each hole with epoxy to seal against water access to the balsa core, and then re-drilling properly sized holes for the mounting hardware. Hope this helps...  

I found an Ensign fixer-upper at a local boatyard that the owner donated to our youth sailing program. It has a good rig, hull, sails, trailer, outboard, winches, etc. The deck, however is a different story. It's pretty much shot, along with the seats and floors. It will definitely need a lot of work, but even with the needed work it's a bargain, considering that new Ensigns cost $27,000 to $30,000 (without a trailer), and fully restored '60s models run $8,000 to $15,000. I plan on doing the work myself, with assistance and guidance from a professional boat builder who has volunteered his services free, if I buy the materials. There are still good Ensigns around, for a reasonable price, if you're not looking for a fully restored one. The Gulf Coast is a good place to look, with, as mentioned a large fleet in Houston, TX. I agree that the daysailor market has gone crazy, ($300,000? for a 26 footer with a v-berth?) but I understand the shift away from complicated boats and the return to simpler, more relaxing sailing. The Ensign is perfect for a youth sailing program, with its huge cockpit, positive flotation, "big boat" handling and stability. I predict it will become more popular as time goes on and people rediscover one of the best kept secrets in sailing.  

I would not count on getting $8,000 to $15,000 for a restored Ensign. Not that long ago I looked at two that were for sale here on the Chesapeake, both in very nice condition, one with almost new sails and a reasonably new outboard that had asking prices of $3500 and $2600. It would be very hard to find a buyer for a Ensign at that price, even if it was restored, when you can easily buy a J-22 or a Sonar in very nice condition for $8,000 to $15,000 and have a far better boat all around. Jeff  

Jeff, I certainly agree that you can find used Ensigns cheaper than $8,000 to $15,000. The ones I saw for sale at those prices were early 60's models with total restorations, (newly recored deck, new teak all around, new rigging, sails, winches, fully race equipped, etc.) that the owners had probably put a lot of money into, as boatyard labor rates and OEM part prices can quickly add up. These were asking prices, not necessarily the selling prices. I recently saw a listing for an unrestored, but obviously well maintained, 60's vintage 6 time Ensign Championship winning boat listed for sale for $3200 in New England. And yes, some people left the Ensign fleet in favor of the Sonar and other newer designs as the Ensign Class Association chose to keep a fairly strict one design philosophy and limit proposed changes to the boat, in an effort to keep the older boats competitive. I wouldn't encourage people to rush out and buy an old boat and update it in the hope of getting a huge return on it, because that doesn't usually happen, given the current costs. The Ensign, in my opinion, is what it is, a great daysailor and one design race boat within its limits, and there is apparently still a demand for it.  

If it doesn't have to be an Ensign (not racing) an Electra or Sea Sprite are similarly nice looking boats in size and configuration.  

I guess it depends on wear you live BUT in Northport they have a big following with deep pockets thats shows up and fields a big one design fleet every week  

The Electra is the MORC version of the Ensign with the same hull, but a larger cabin, 4 berths, a smaller self-bailing cockpit, and a masthead rig. The Ensign was originally named the Electra Ensign to distinguish between the two boats. There are still used Electras around even though only 319 of them were built and production ended in the early 60's due to the popularity of the Ensign daysailor. I recently saw a picture of a guy racing an Electra in the 2009 Solo Trans-Pac race. From what I understand they are very strongly built and capable small ocean racers, if you don't expect a whole lot of headroom or storage capacity. "The best bilge pump is a frightened man with a horse bucket!"  

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Pearson Ensign a good first boat (given context in the post)?

• Thread starter Anchored87
• Start date Aug 1, 2023
• Forums for All Owners
• Ask All Sailors

Anchored87 said: Gotcha. Thank you, makes sense! Re: 240. The main sail looked quite new (virtually unused). When you say that I'd need a new main sail, are you referring to purchasing a different type of main sail? or just replacing the existing one? Click to expand

• Catalina 22 introduced in 1969 - centerboard
• Catalina 22 "New Design" in 1986
• Catalina 22 Mark II This model was introduced in 1995 and produced until 2004
• Catalina 22 Sport This model was introduced in 2004 and remains in production
• Catalina swing keel/centerboard

@rgranger @jssailem @jon hansen and everyone else, thanks for all of your input. There’s a lot to think about and consider. As of now, I think I’m leaning towards the ensign, but I just need to figure out the mooring and bailing situation if I go that route. I’ll keep you all updated as I move through the process. Thanks again!  

FastOlson said: For the use and service you need, better find a well maintained later model Catalina 25, or something similar. A Cal 25-2 would be really good, too, Click to expand

Hunter 18.5

rgranger said: I don't want to piss in anyone's pot. I have the sailboat bug bad and I have sympothy for anyone else who has this dissease. For example, here is a pic of my backyard just a few years ago.. View attachment 218444 so I will make this point one last time and then I will support what ever decision you make... I know I have made more than one emotional decision in my time... I think leaving a boat that is not self bailing on a mooring .. is asking for real heart ache. The probability that you will have to float a $unk boat is high. And the probability of tarnishing this dream ( for ever ) is also high. If you go with the Ensign, I'd recommend finding a place nearby that will let you keep it on a trailer. You can properly tarp it on the trailer to keep most of the rain out. Click to expand

Anchored87 said: I also think there’s something nice and fulfilling about having a project to maintain her bright work in the off season. Click to expand

Is a Cape Dory Typhoon a good first sailboat for 2 families?

The CD Typhoon is a good boat too. Very stable and forgiving. I think it is self bailing but I’m not sure. You can sleep in the cabin - tent style. The Ensign probably sails a bit better but the Typhoon is a real sailboat. I think it sails better than the CD 25.  

Ensign 22 Sailboat Covers -- The Sailors Tailor

growing up, dad had a 38' alden racer, ( U.S. ONE DESIGN), wood, no selfbailing cockpit, no electric bildge pump. it never sank, nor did any of the boats like her. at our club were a large fleet of dragons, wood boats, no selfbailing cockpits. none sank. a fiberglass ensign is super easy to maintain and operate. easy peezee boys.  

jon hansen said: growing up, dad had a 38' alden racer, ( U.S. ONE DESIGN), wood, no selfbailing cockpit, no electric bildge pump. it never sank, nor did any of the boats like her. at our club were a large fleet of dragons, wood boats, no selfbailing cockpits. none sank. a fiberglass ensign is super easy to maintain and operate. easy peezee boys. Click to expand

.......................... you do have to pay attention to the details.  

Anchored87 said: Thanks for the list and the questions: Very. I expect the majority of the summer sail's (with the family) to include a swim in the bay. Was thinking of getting a ladder that could go over the side of the ensign? Or would you recommend getting a boat specifically designed with an open transom / ladder? I looked at a Hunter 240 yesterday, which has a built in ladder on the transom, and really liked it but wasn't ready to pull the trigger. I took her for a test sail and she seemed much lighter compared to the ensign. It was a light day and we even had trouble swinging her bow through the wind on a tack (just the mainsail was used). So I was hesitant in that regard as well; I'd say it's important-ish. The ensign had an easy enough rig for me to handle (albeit, actively) with the main and jib I think. I'll look at some of the other boats you've mentioned but I think the Catalina 22 and the Hunter 240 are strong contenders if I'm not going to take the ensign. As @Scott T-Bird mentioned, the ensign is readily available right now so I'm trying to determine if these things are worth a full search or if the ensign will fit for these purposes (with some compromises). I don't expect this first boat to be a forever boat. Perhaps 5 years or less. I'm aiming to learn, get the family used to sailing, and figuring out what we actually want/need. Click to expand

Nice boat, and pretty. But there are numerous better choices for the uses you have described. And, why would you want all that wood? There's plenty to maintain on a boat without having to maintain wood. Aside from aesthetics, it serves no purpose. And consider that the worst possible finish for wood kept outdoors is a clear finish. There are 240 boats in my marina, and I can count on one hand the boats with properly maintained wood trim. Remember, when you've prepped the wood, and you're on your fifth coat of varnish, you might as well be breaking rocks. Actually, you'd be better off breaking rocks, because they stay broken. Varnish is temporary. You can pound a square peg into a round hole with enough effort and a willingness to accept the result, but why not find yourself a round peg?  

Thanks all. I’ve moved on from the Ensign for multiple reasons mentioned here. Im now considering a ComPac 23 or a Catalina 25. I think those may be more amenable to a mooring and sailing with an infant. cc @rgranger  

Anchored87 said: Thanks all. I’ve moved on from the Ensign for multiple reasons mentioned here. Im now considering a ComPac 23 or a Catalina 25. I think those may be more amenable to a mooring and sailing with an infant. cc @rgranger Click to expand

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Pearson 22 Ensign

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Let's connect, why it's important to partner with a designer on your pearson 22 ensign sail.

The design is the most critical part of your new sail. Ensuring the sail fits and performs its best is a must for our crew. The Precision Sails Design team are experts at their craft. Unlike other sail lofts all of our sailors work one-on-one with a designer to perfect their Pearson 22 Ensign sail.

No Two Pearson 22 Ensign Sails Are Alike

There are many factors that affect the performance and design of your sails. Location, sailing experience, and weather conditions all come into play when picking the perfect sail. Two mainsails made for two Pearson 22 Ensign’s in California and Florida will have different designs, sailcloth, and options based on what is best for the sailor.

Taking measurements is easy. All sailors work alongside our measurement team to measure and confirm their rig specs. This helps ensure your design is flawless and allows us to extend our Perfect Fit Guarantee to all of our sailors.

Discover the best cloth for your sailing needs, our sail details, or more about how Precision Sails is leading the sail-making industry with innovative new practices.

Proudly offering the largest selection of sailcloth in the industry, our team is always available to help you find your perfect sail. Whether you're a weekend sailor, coastal cruiser, or club racer our team is ready to walk you through the process.

Types of Sails

Precision Sail Loft specializes in producing headsails, mainsails, spinnakers, gennakers, and code zeros. So no matter the type of sail you’re looking for, we can help. Our sails are trusted by cruisers and racers alike from around the globe. Review the sail options and craftsmanship available to customize your dream sail.

Build & Process

Every sail we craft is produced to the highest standards with the best hardware, craftsmanship, and skill-set in the industry. Pair that with Precision Sails' approach to communication and your sailboat will be ready to set sail before you know it.

Unparalleled Commitment To Helping Sailors

As experts in design, communication, and production our team is ready to take on the task of making sails for your boat. Give us a call to get started.

“ I just received my asymmetrical spinnaker, with sock and turtle bag, along with a new 135 Genoa. The entire process was simple and both sales and the design team were in regular contact if there were any questions. The customer portal was easy to use and lets you keep track of where in the process your sails are. Great sails, great service -Graham Edwards (Facebook)

“ The whole team at Precision Sails was fantastic from start to finish. We’ve had a laminate main and genoa made so far and have a spinnaker on the way. They listened carefully to our needs and recommended a great sail cloth. We couldn’t have gotten more bang for our buck! -Noah Regelous (Google)

“ We received our spinnaker and launched it yesterday and I just wanted to let you know how pleased we are with it. The service we received from your company was exceptional and the quality of your product is second to none. We will certainly be return customers in the next few months to replace our main and jib sails and will recommend your company to all our sailing buddies. Once again-thank you.” -Daniel Jackson (Google)

“ we had good communication during the planning stages and the knowledgeable people at precision sails really got me fixed up good! The sails look and work fabulous! my boat sails better than it ever had! couldn’t be more pleased with the product AND the service!” -Fred Jelich (Facebook)

“ Our new furling jib for a Corsair 27 Had to be specially designed due to the height of the furler, but this was accomplished quickly and in short order we had our sail which fits beautifully and has a great shape. It’s everything we could have wanted, high tech design, thoughtfully executed and affordable.” -Nancy Y. (Yelp)

Request a Pearson 22 Ensign Quote

Looking to buy a new headsail or mainsail for your Pearson 22 Ensign? Request a free quote from Precision Sails for a new custom sail. Our team will work with you to design the perfect sail for you.

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• Pearson Ensign

Pearson Ensign Boats for sale

2006 Pearson Ensign

Holland, Michigan

Make Pearson

Model Ensign

Posted Over 1 Month

2006 Pearson Ensign Hull # 2015 on this pretty girl dress in blue. Very lightly used here in the fresh water of Lake Michigan. This 2006 Pearson Ensign is in excellent condition and ready  for new adventures. Come take a look for yourself....your won't be disappointed.

Pearson Ensign 22.5 Feet - Fully Restored

Greensburg, Pennsylvania

Category Racer Boats

Length 22.5

Restoration includes: New cockpit floor supports Repaired, sanded, bleached Teak cockpit floor Repaired bench seats, sanded, stained and varnished Sanded, stained and varnished coaming Repaired, sanded, stained front of cabin and companionway doors Sanded and painted/varnished inside of cabin Hull above waterline, stripped of all paint, sanded, faired, sanded, primed and painted with 4 coats of Epifanes 2 part polyurethane paint Bottom sanded, painted with 3 coats Pettit Vivid paint Mast, boom, all lines and rigging in very good condition New Bilge pump and battery All electrical in very good working. Wiring checked and repaired where needed. Rudder/tiller in great shape Reinforced decks by previous owner Sails include Main, Furling Genoa, Blade, Spinnaker - all in very good shapeAll rigging and lines in very good shapeTrailer new in 2015 made this boat to be launched at a boat launch or lifted off.Currently stored in doors. MORE INFORMATION UPON REQUEST. See ensignclass.com for more information on this truly amazing sailboat class.

Category Sailboats

ENSIGN 22.5-foot SLOOP with 5hp HONDA OUTBOARD and FOUR SAILS

New York, New York

Category Daysailer Sailboats

In the words of the Ensign Association, "The Ensign is the largest class of full keel sailboats in North America, with over 2000 boats manufactured since 1962. Designed by Carl Alberg, its sustained popularity is due to very solid and durable construction, and a design that lends itself equally and admirably to comfortable family cruising, enjoyable day sailing, and close, strategic, tactical racing. As a family day sailor, the Ensign has a large, deep cockpit, with enough room to comfortably seat six to eight adults. Its full keel provides a secure, stable ride, and its three foot draft makes it perfect for the shallower waters of bays and lakes and for anchoring fairly close to a protected shore. The cabin space is more than adequate for keeping lots of gear dry, for providing immediate refuge from rainy weather, and can even sleep a couple of people... even more if they are friendly." The Ensign is also a fine racing boat, with fleets at several locations in the New York area."Azores" is in top condition. It has a mainsail, a working jib, and #1 and #2 genoas, all in top condition. The 2013 5hp Honda outboard engine is in excellent condition, with less than 25 hours of use. Included are a cockpit cover, a new marine radio; a new, unused head; a 9-foot rubber raft, never used; a wheeled cradle for winter storage, and an overboard ladder. The hull below the waterline and the woodwork were painted last winter. Although the boat lacks a spinnaker, it has all the deck hardware to mount a spinnaker. Hardware includes two coffee grinder winches, boom vang, two sets of jib sheets, a boom runner, and other hardware and lines.I bought "Azores" several years ago and find that at age 87 I can no longer easily manage it. "Azores" is moored at the Sheepshead Bay Yacht Club at 3076 Emmons Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11235. I will deliver it there. A payment of $500 is due within three days of agreement. the balance is due on transfer of title.

1963 Pearson Ensign #66

Marblehead, Massachusetts

Model Ensign #66

Category Sloop Sailboats

Ensign #66 First Year of Manufacture. Well maintained interior mahogany seats and coaming. Recently replaced teak deck and brand new tiller. Includes two used mainsails, #1 and #2 genoas, plus an additional #2 roller-reefed genoa (as currently rigged), tri-radial spinaker, original balloon spinnaker, spinnaker pole; sail cover, 6hp 4-stroke Tohatsu outboard and tank, self-cleating Harkin traveler (replaced from original), anchor and line, dock fenders, mooring tall-buoy float, 4 flotation cushions, gimballed compass, jib winch handle, 2 hand bilge pumps, electric (12-V) bilge pump, plus various hardware items.

Pearson Ensign 22'

Slidell, Louisiana

Make Pearson Ensign

Pearson Ensign 22' - $8750 OBO (Mandeville) Year: 1965 Length: 23' Located In: Mandeville, La Hull Material: Fiberglass Heavy Duty Trailer Price: US$ 8,500 The Ensign sailboat is the largest class of full keel boats in North America. It was designed by Carl Alberg and built by Pearson Yachts of Portsmouth, Rhode Island who manufactured nearly 1800 boats from 1962 through 1983. Its popularity, rather than declining with the advent of very high performance boats, has been on a major upswing. The Ensign is 22 and 1/2 feet long, weighs about 3,000 pounds, has a draft of 3 feet. It is favored by former dinghy sailors and cruisers alike. It has no life lines and therefore can be sailed with many dingy tactics such as hiking and roll tacking. It is a comfortable day sailer with a large cockpit. The Ensign can be a great family boat for recreational sailing. Have mast and some sail. Needs a rub rail and top deck fittings. Have a British Silver Seagull outboard motor. It needs a coil.

1970 Pearson Ensign

Buckeye Lake, Ohio

1970 Pearson Ensign Boat is located in Buckeye Lake,Ohio.Please contact the owner @ 740-607-8212...One of the most beautiful and best sailing boats ever made. 23' sailboat, roller furling, main genoa like new, 4 hp Honda long shaft outboard, duel axel trailer. All in excellent condition. Make: Pearson Model: Ensign Length: 23 Dealer: BoatsFSBO.com ID: 258384 Ad provided by BoatingBay

1973 Pearson Ensign Sailboat

Denver, Colorado

1973 Pearson Ensign Sailboat, 22', includes: outboard motor; Main, Jib, Genoa & Spinnaker Sails; lifejackets and marginal trailer. Original teak deck and doors. Currently at Cherry Creek Reservior, Denver. Call or email to inquire.

22-foot ENSIGN SLOOP, 2013 5hp HONDA outboard, mainsail, and three jibs

Length 22.5 feet

The Ensign Class Assoc. describes it, "As a family day sailor, the Ensign has a large, deep cockpit, with enough room to comfortably seat six to eight adults. Its full keel provides a secure, stable ride, and its three foot draft makes it perfect for the shallower waters of bays and lakes and for anchoring fairly close to a protected shore. The cabin space is more than adequate for keeping lots of gear dry, for providing immediate refuge from rainy weather, and can even sleep a couple of people... even more if they are friendly." It can also be raced and there are regular races in Brooklyn's waters. This sale includes the boat and sails, a 5 hp Honda outward, vintage 2013, with about 120 miles of use, a new marine radio, a marine head (never used), a rubber raft (never used), a wheeled cradle for winter storage, a boat cover, and a ladder. The sails include a mainsail, a working jib, and a #1 and #2 genoa jibs. There are cabin doors, two coffee grinder winches, a boom vang, a boom traveller, and a multiplicity of blocks. Halyards, sheets, and lines are in top condition. I bought"Azores" four years ago, but now, at 87, I find it more than I can comfortably handle. I have loved sailing the waters around Brooklyn for many years and am sorry to leave. Azores is moored at the Sheepshead Bay Yacht Club, mooring B35.I will transfer Azores at the Sheepshead Bay Yacht Club, 3076 Emmons Avenue, Brooklyn, NY at our mutual convenience. Terms: $500 two days after acceptance of bid, the remainder due within seven days or by mutual agreement.

1966 PEARSON ENSIGN 22” SAILBOAT w/ TRAILER & 5 HP NISSAN ENGINE

Pine Beach, New Jersey

I am selling this for a friend so please bear with me . I am selling a 22’ ( 22 foot ) long fiberglass PEARSON / ENSIGN sailboat . The title lists this little lady as being mfg in 1966 . She sailed in the 2004 NATIONALS . As you can see the boat is named “ LADY BUG “ . THE BOAT IS CURRENTLY BEING STORED ON LAND IN PINE BEACH / OCEAN COUNTY / NJ 08741 AND AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION . The boat hull is numbered 1081 . The hull is painted red and there is some light alligator skinning on the paint . This can easily be taken care of with a new paint job . And the ladybug decals are edge peeling . The sailboat has two sets of sails . You get both sets . One set of sails are are original and the second set is from 2004 . The boat has had some work done on it . The hull was taken down to the glass and seven coats of sealer were applied . There are no soft spots and the boat has some new hardware . The boat also has new seats and a new floor . As you can see some of the wood in and around the cabin needs some repair . The mast is original to the boat also . The boat comes with a road ready trailer and handmade wooden cradle . The cradle needs some work and the tires need inflating . Included in this package is a 5 HP Nissan Outboard motor . The motor was serviced 2 years ago but might need a new impeller and as you can see the lower half has a lot of corrosion . If you need any info at all on this boat please call 732 - 684 - 8268.

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1996 Pearson Ensign 22

• Description

Seller's Description

Pearson/ Ensign Design 22 that is a great looking and sailing daysailer. Full loaded for racing or pleasure.

Moving from Lake Dillon, CO to St Croix. Eager to sell.

Equipment: 3 sets of sails, new traveler, brand new Honda 5 HP motor. Trailer included.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

In 1959 Carl Alberg was commissioned by Pearson Yachts to design a 22-foot cruiser suitable for racing in the Midget Ocean Racing Club (MORC). This was the ELECTRA, which had a masthead rig, a small, self-bailing cockpit, and a cabin with galley space, head and bunks. About 350 ELECTRAS were built over the next six years.

Pearson dealers surmised that prospective Electra buyers might prefer the boat with a larger cockpit and smaller cabin. They passed the information along to Pearson, who subsequently asked Alberg to design a day sailor, suitable for one-design racing, based on the ELECTRA hull.

Other changes made included moving the mast six inches s forward, increasing the area of the mainsail, and reducing the height of the fore triangle.

The ELECTRA DAY SAILOR, as it was first called, was an instant success: 219 were sold in the first year (1962). At this time, the first class racing was organized (Fleet #l, out of Larchmont, New York).

The next year saw 213 more boats built and nine more fleets formed - in Houston, Texas; Hingham, Massachusetts; Providence, Rhode Island; Huntington and Port Washington, New York, Miami, Florida; Gibson Island, Maryland; and Falmouth, Maine. The last known builder (2003) was Ensign Spars Inc. of Dunedin, FL (USA).

This listing is presented by SailboatListings.com . Visit their website for more information or to contact the seller.

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Pearson Ensign

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