COASTER 30 (PEARSON)
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 30 ft |
| LWL | 23.25 ft |
| Beam | 9.33 ft |
| Draft | 4.58 ft |
| Displacement | 9,500 lb |
| Ballast | 3,499.8 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.5 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Pmainsail luff | 15.29 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 14.01 ft |
Engine
| Commonly | Atomic 4 |
About the COASTER 30 (PEARSON)
Also available with a yawl rig. A daysailer version called the GYPSY 30 was advertised but it is unknown if any were actually built.
Designed by William Shaw and built by Pearson Yachts (USA) from 1966–1970, the Coaster 30 is a classic fin-keel sloop with a displacement of 9500.0 lb. While the exact hulls built count is unknown, this model represents a significant era of American production yachts known for robust construction and comfortable cruising.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekend sailors who prioritize comfort and ease of handling, as evidenced by the high frequency of Atomic 4 engine installations and North sail upgrades. Its moderate displacement and comfort ratio make it ideal for those seeking a stable, manageable vessel for inland and coastal waters.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 9500.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 1.77, the Coaster 30 is generally considered suitable for coastal and nearshore cruising rather than extended bluewater passages. Its fin keel and moderate ballast ratio suggest it is best kept within sight of land or well-established cruising grounds.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Pearson 303 and other William Shaw designs from the late 1960s, which share similar dimensions and cruising-oriented layouts. These vessels offer similar performance characteristics and maintenance profiles, making them direct alternatives for buyers seeking a classic American cruiser.
Direct variants of the COASTER 30 (PEARSON)
Near-identical models — same hull, builder and designer, re-badged or lightly changed. Specs and owner-reported issues are typically shared across the group, so a sister model's page may carry detail this one doesn't.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the COASTER 30 (PEARSON) yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 30ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
7 reported issues across 4 systems for the COASTER 30 (PEARSON), compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a COASTER 30 (PEARSON)? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 7 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your COASTER 30 (PEARSON)?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Atomic 4 — is it one of these?
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the COASTER 30 (PEARSON)
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…