1981 Pearson 303 vs 1990 Island Packet 29 — Comparison
1981 Pearson 303
1990 Island Packet 29
Specifications Side by Side
| Specification | 1981 Pearson 303 | 1990 Island Packet 29 |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Manufacturer | Pearson | Island Packet |
| Year | 1981–1986 | 1990–1998 |
| Type | Sloop | Sloop |
| Country | USA | USA |
| Designer | William Shaw | Bob Johnson |
| Dimensions | ||
| LOA | 9.14 m (30.0 ft) | 8.84 m (29.0 ft) |
| LWL | 7.62 m (25.0 ft) | 7.47 m (24.5 ft) |
| Beam | 3.05 m (10.0 ft) | 3.05 m (10.0 ft) |
| Draft | 1.52 m (5.0 ft) | 1.12 m (3.7 ft) |
| Weight | ||
| Displacement | 3,856 kg (8,501 lbs) | 3,856 kg (8,501 lbs) |
| Ballast | 1,588 kg (3,501 lbs) | 1,588 kg (3,501 lbs) |
| Sailing | ||
| Sail Area | 39.8 m² (428 ft²) | 33.5 m² (361 ft²) |
| Hull Material | Fiberglass | Fiberglass |
| Keel Type | Fin | Full |
| Engine & Tanks | ||
| Engine | 15 HP | 18 HP |
| Fuel Capacity | 57 L (15.1 gal) | 76 L (20.1 gal) |
| Water Capacity | 76 L (20.1 gal) | 132 L (34.9 gal) |
| Accommodation | ||
| Berths | 5 | 5 |
| Cabins | 1 | 1 |
Performance Comparison
Detailed Comparison
The 1981 Pearson 303 and 1990 Island Packet 29 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 1981 Pearson 303 is a 1980s design by Pearson from USA, while the 1990 Island Packet 29 is a 1990s offering from Island Packet from USA. The 1981 Pearson 303 was penned by William Shaw. The 1990 Island Packet 29 was designed by Bob Johnson.
In terms of size, the 1981 Pearson 303 measures 9.14m (30.0ft) overall with a beam of 3.05m, compared to the 1990 Island Packet 29 at 8.84m (29.0ft) with a 3.05m beam. The 1981 Pearson 303 is 0.30m longer than the 1990 Island Packet 29.
Looking at performance, the 1981 Pearson 303 has moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising with an SA/D ratio of 16.45 and 39.8 m² of sail area. The 1990 Island Packet 29, with an SA/D of 13.84 and 33.5 m² of canvas, offers modest sail power for its displacement. The 1981 Pearson 303 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.
For comfort and safety, the 1981 Pearson 303 offers a moderate motion comfort level (comfort ratio: 20.6) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.78). The 1990 Island Packet 29 has a comfort ratio of 21.6 and a capsize screening value of 0.78. The ballast ratios are 41.2% for the 1981 Pearson 303 and 41.2% for the 1990 Island Packet 29, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.
Below deck, the 1981 Pearson 303 provides 5 berths in 1 cabin with 76L of water capacity and 57L of fuel. The 1990 Island Packet 29 offers 5 berths in 1 cabin with 132L water and 76L fuel capacity.
Verdict
For cruising: The 1990 Island Packet 29 is the better choice for comfortable cruising thanks to its higher comfort ratio, offering a gentler motion at sea that crews will appreciate on longer passages.
For racing: The 1981 Pearson 303 has the performance advantage with its superior SA/D ratio, meaning more sail power relative to its displacement for competitive sailing.
For liveaboard: Both boats provide similar accommodation, making either a viable choice for living aboard. Consider water and fuel capacity for extended stays away from marinas.
Compare Different Boats
Looking for a different matchup? Browse All Boats
Or view individual specs: 1981 Pearson 303 · 1990 Island Packet 29