1978 Pearson 424
$35,000
$42,500
Boat in Oriental, NC 28571 US
424
1 Engine (Yanmar)
42 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Introducing the 1978 Pearson 424, a remarkable cruiser that embodies both elegance and functionality. With an overall length of 42 feet, this vessel is designed for comfort and performance on the water. The hull, crafted from durable fiberglass, features a displacement shape and an efficient keel type, ensuring stability and smooth sailing. Equipped with an electric windlass, the Pearson 424 enhances your anchoring experience, making it effortless to set and retrieve your anchor. This cruiser boasts a cruising speed of 7.5 knots, with a maximum hull speed of 8.7 knots, allowing for enjoyable and swift voyages. The classic design and reliable construction of the Pearson 424 make it an excellent choice for those seeking adventure on the open sea. Experience the charm and capability of this timeless cruiser, perfect for both leisurely outings and longer journeys.
- This yacht has the benefit of European VAT (Import Tax) Paid Valued at 20%
- This is a true cruising yacht built by Pearson Yachts in Portsmouth, RI.
- This is a well-designed hull together with mast furling
- Large 62hp Yanmar engine 4JH3TE. Large fuel (84 US gallons) and water tankage (150 us gallons)
- Fully equipped for offshore cruising
- She has completed two transatlantic crossings Netherlands to Florida. Cruising from Virginia to Cape Cod, Boston. Then south to Bahamas, Cuba and Guatemala's Rio Dulce
LOA: 13m-42ft
Beam: 3.9m-12.9ft
Draft: 1.6m-5.5 ft
Waterline Length: 36.5ft
Mast, Air Height: 17m-56 ft
Displacement: 10-ton
Ballast: 3.7-ton lead encapsulated modified keel
Rig: Masthead Sloop, Main Sail Hood in mast furling, Genoa/Headsail Hood. Rod kicker & boomvang
Rondal spinnaker pole stored on the mast
Rigging: Oversized stainless-steel standing rigging 8/10mm dia. 10 years. Single spreaders. Deck light.
Built as a ketch in 1978 and in 1990's modified to sloop with in-mast furling system fitted
Taller mast with the addition of 5.5ft section added (designed by marine engineer, details on board, see ship's papers)
- Classic teak interior Saloon, front and aft cabin 4 (+2) berths
- Headroom saloon: approximately 1.95m
- A large V-berth double cabin forward features full head height, ample hanging and storage lockers
- Stainless-steel wash basin. Not connected, not operational
- This cabin can be closed off for guest privacy
- This spacious saloon features two full-length settee berths.
- The U-shaped galley is situated aft of port settee, oven with 2x remote gas shut off switch.
- Opposite the galley to starboard is a second companion way ladder to the main deck.
- Aft of companionway is a spacious head with wash bowl with hot and cold mixer tap
- Electric head with discharge overboard or through a separate waste holding tank
- To aft, a separate large shower stall with pumped discharge overboard
- Storage locker in the wall behind the shower. The shower has a clothes washing bowl used in the passages
- Going aft from the saloon area, there is a doorway to the master aft cabin with a dedicated navigation station to starboard and a double berth to port
- A large tool storage locker next to the chart table, lockers over the bed, and a bookcase above storage lockers and 3 x 104 ah domestic gel batteries under the main berth, and 1 engine start battery
- Yanmar 4JHE2MTE 62 H.P. Diesel engine fitted in the US
- Fitted new in the mid-2000s. Complies with EPA control standards. 2500 hours
- "Walter" V drive transfer, reverse drive box, engine gearbox, Borge Wamer Velvet Drive.
- Engine-driven hot water system 30-gallons (Note: Eberspacher/Webasto diesel-powered water heater under deck on starboard side).
- Operational this year, but may need to be reinstalled and serviced
- This unit runs the hot water system and 5 radiators throughout the saloon and cabins in addition to the engine-driven hot water system, saloon and cabins in addition to the engine-driven hot water system
- 2023/24 Three domestic 104Ah sealed lead acid batteries.
- Controlled by the Sterling smart charger in the navigation station locker
- 2024 One engine starts battery 90Ah
- 85-amp engine-driven alternator.
- 300-watt Solar Panels Master Volt MPPT 40-amp controller
- Panels mounted on stainless-steel gallery over spray hood/dodger
- Twin fuel filter in the engine room, one fuel CAV-type filter on the engine
- 2x linked propylene 100-liter diesel tanks and stainless-steel tanks under the forward berth
- Aft tanks use dipsticks to check levels. Bow tank electric gauge
- Max Prop feathering grease pump and anodes spares in locker under aft berth
- Hot water storage tank and control valves under the saloon floor midships.
- Domestic radiators in the main saloon, aft and forward cabin wall-hung radiators heated by the engine
- Under the saloon floor, 10 10-gallon/40-liter hot water storage tank connected to the engine cooling system feeding, galley sink, head basin, shower, and cockpit deck shower
Pilot Windvane steering system, linked to the ship's wheel.
Emergency tiller under the cabin berth on top of the water tank.
Access to the engine is under the storage locker boxes under the companion way ladder.
Behind the companion way ladder, engine instrument panel, and valve box with flow and return valves for
each fuel tank.
Hand bilge pump in cockpit.
Bilge No.1 bilge pump 12v Centre bilge, No.2 under mast, anchor locker drainage,
No.3 aft close to stuffing gland.
All pumps are automatically checked.
Stainless steel boarding ladder.
2nd boarding ladder is fixed midship.
Fenders, mooring warps, fuel cans, water jugs, buckets,
Hubble dock electrical cables and electrical extension cords.
2 x Fishing reels that fix to aft stanchion, 2 x boxes of fishing gear, and line.
Boat hook.
Fishing gaff.
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.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 4/6/26 | Price decreased | $35,000(-17.6%) |
| 3/18/26 | Price decreased | $42,500(-5.3%) |
| 1/29/26 | Initial price | $44,900 |
Overview from around the web 1978 Pearson 424
Customers praise the 1978 Pearson 424 for its solid construction and spacious interior, making it an excellent choice for comfortable cruising
Many highlight its classic design combined with reliable performance, noting that it handles well in various sea conditions. Owners appreciate the ample storage and well-thought-out layout, which enhances liveaboard comfort. Overall, the Pearson 424 is valued for its durability, ease of handling, and timeless appeal among sailing enthusiasts.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1978 Pearson 424 is a classic cruising sailboat known for its solid construction and spacious interior. Here are some of the key pros and cons of this model:
Pros
Sturdy Build: The Pearson 424 features a robust fiberglass hull and deck, providing durability and longevity.
Spacious Interior: Designed with comfortable cruising in mind, it offers ample living space, including multiple cabins and a well-equipped galley.
Good Sailing Performance: With a moderate sail plan and a full keel, the boat handles well in a variety of conditions, offering stability and ease of handling.
Classic Design: The traditional lines and teak accents give it an attractive, timeless appearance.
Solid Reputation: Pearson Yachts is known for quality craftsmanship, and the 424 has a loyal following among cruising enthusiasts.
Cons
Weight: The boat’s solid construction results in a heavier displacement, which can make it slower in light wind conditions.
Older Systems: Being a 1978 model, many of the onboard systems and equipment may require upgrades or maintenance.
Limited Modern Amenities: Compared to newer designs, the Pearson 424 may lack some contemporary conveniences and technological advancements.
Draft Considerations: Its keel depth may limit access to shallow waters or certain cruising grounds.
Maintenance: As with any classic cruiser, upkeep on older woodwork and fittings can be time-consuming and potentially costly.
Made For
The 1978 Pearson 424 is designed for sailors seeking a spacious and comfortable cruising sailboat. It’s ideal for families or couples who want a reliable vessel for extended coastal or offshore voyages. With its well-thought-out layout and solid construction, the Pearson 424 caters to those who value a blend of performance and livability on the water. Whether you're an experienced sailor or looking to step up to a larger cruising boat, the Pearson 424 offers a welcoming and capable platform for adventure.
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Address
Boat Location
Contact Oriental Yacht Sales about 1978 Pearson 424
1400 Tosto Cir, Sailcraft Marina, Oriental, NC, 28571
Contact Oriental Yacht Sales
1400 Tosto Cir, Sailcraft Marina, Oriental, NC, 28571





























