1971 Pearson competitor
$27,000
Boat in La Conner, WA 98257 US
Built in 1971
competitor
1 Engine (Perkins (Westerbeke))
39 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
"Maggie May" is a classic 1971 Pearson 39 "Competitor" racer-cruiser designed by William
Shaw - a boat built for the kind of sailing the Pacific Northwest demands and rewards. Her
solid fiberglass hull with encapsulated lead ballast and a retractable centerboard give her a
variable draft of 4'8" to 8'10", letting her sail confidently in open Puget Sound waters and then
tuck into a shallow cove along a tree-lined shore where deeper-draft boats simply cannot go. She
also moves quickly for her size - capable of 10 knots on a reach with surges to 12 - a boat that
genuinely defies theoretical hull speed and handles the full range of Salish Sea conditions with
confidence.
The cockpit layout sets Maggie apart from most other vessels. The helm is positioned forward of
center, keeping the helmsman sheltered behind the dodger and in easy communication with crew
below - a welcome arrangement on those cool Northwest passages. Self-tailing winches are
positioned aft of the wheel with the mainsheet led aft of the helmsman, making her exceptionally
easy to single-hand across the Sound or up through the San Juan Islands. Her well-engineered
preventer system handles jibe control, boom management in a rolling seaway, and man-
overboard recovery with equal effectiveness.
Below decks, Maggie is comfortable and practical for extended PNW cruising. The salon
features a custom dinette with an L-shaped port settee and opposing starboard bench. She
accommodates 4 comfortably with a V-berth forward, a starboard portman bunk, and a pull-out
double below the cockpit berth.
After thirty years under single ownership, Maggie May is ready for the season and ready to take her next owner wherever
the tides of the Pacific Northwest lead.
Hull & Construction
- Solid fiberglass hull, blister-free
- Encapsulated lead ballast, 7,300 lbs
- 350 lb fiberglass centerboard
- Displacement: approximately 17,000 lbs
- Draft: 4'8" board up / 8'10" board down
- Non-cored deck construction at all stanchion bases
- New bottom paint, hull buff, new cove stripe - April 2026
Interior Layout & Accommodations
- Sleeps six: V-berth forward, custom dinette conversion, starboard pilot berth, pull-out double below pilot berth
- Custom dinette with built-in bookshelf
- L-shaped port settee and opposing starboard bench
Galley & Domestic Equipment
- Large rebuilt icebox with added closed-cell foam insulation - holds block ice one week with regular use
- Two 20-gallon fresh water tanks (port and starboard)
- 30-gallon waste holding tank (below V-berth)
- Newly installed diesel forced-air heater - ducted to galley, salon, head, and forward cabin (exhaust installation to be completed prior to delivery)
Engines & Mechanical
- Perkins (Westerbeke) 4-108 four-cylinder diesel
- Two-bladed Martec folding propeller
- Remote oil filter and hand-pump oil extraction system
- 30-gallon Monel fuel tank (corrosion-proof)
- All batteries replaced Summer 2025
Deck Exterior & Comfort
- Cadet Gray dodger and sail cover - new 2019
- Custom Sunbrella cockpit cushions
- Teak folding cockpit table
- Magna propane BBQ - three-tank propane capacity
Safety & Tender
- CQR anchor with 150' of 5/16" chain (new 2020) and 150' nylon rode
- Danforth stern anchor with dedicated rode stowed in lazaret
- Life Sling rescue pod
Sails, Rigging & Other Sailing Equipment
- Full-batten main with three reefs, all lines led to cockpit - Mack Sails, custom offshore spec
- 9 oz Bainbridge Dacron roller-furling 150% genoa - Mack Sails; UV cover replaced 2024
- Storm jib
- Spinnaker and spinnaker pole
- Hall Spar lightweight aluminum boom - extended to move mainsheet clear of cockpit, boom raised 2" for crew safety
- Standing rigging: oversized 316 SS wire with Sta-Loc fittings at all terminations
- Harken 53ST self-tailing winches
- Baronet Spinnaker winches
- Top cabin winch for reefing lines
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 4/18/26 | Initial price | $27,000 |
Overview from around the web 1971 Pearson competitor
The 1971 Pearson Competitor has garnered positive feedback from various boat owners and enthusiasts, highlighting several key attributes: 1
Sturdy Build Quality: Many users praise the boat's robust construction, emphasizing its durability and ability to withstand various weather conditions. The solid fiberglass hull is noted for ensuring a safe and steady ride. 2. Sailing Performance: Customers appreciate the responsive handling and excellent sailing performance of the Competitor. Its design allows for smooth sailing in various wind conditions, making it a favorite among both novice and experienced sailors. 3. Spacious Interior: The layout of the cabin is often described as roomy and functional. Sailors enjoy the comfortable accommodations, which provide enough space for family outings or weekend getaways. 4. Affordability: Buyers frequently highlight the value for money the Pearson Competitor offers. Its combination of quality features and reasonable pricing makes it an attractive option in the market. 5. Maintenance and Repair: Many owners find the Competitor easy to maintain, with straightforward access to key areas for repairs or upgrades, reinforcing its reputation for reliability and long-term durability. Overall, the 1971 Pearson Competitor tends to be well-regarded in the sailing community for its blend of performance, comfort, and value.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1971 Pearson Competitor is a classic sailboat known for its solid construction and reliable performance. Below are some of the noteworthy pros and cons to consider if you're looking into this model.
Pros
Sturdy Construction: The Pearson Competitor is built with a robust fiberglass hull that ensures durability and longevity, making it a reliable choice for various sailing conditions.
Performance: This boat is praised for its good sailing performance, with a balanced design that allows for smooth sailing both in light winds and stronger conditions.
Spacious Layout: With a well-thought-out interior, the Pearson Competitor offers a comfortable living space, making it suitable for weekend cruising or longer voyages.
Classic Aesthetic: The timeless design and classic lines of the Pearson Competitor appeal to traditional sailing enthusiasts who appreciate vintage sailboats.
Active Community: Being a classic boat, there is an enthusiastic community of Pearson owners who can provide support, share tips, and organize events.
Cons
Age-Related Maintenance: As a boat from 1971, the Competitor may require more maintenance than newer models. Buyers should be prepared for potential upkeep, especially regarding rigging, plumbing, and electronics.
Limited Modern Features: The standard equipment and technology may lack the advancements found in newer boats, meaning some upgrades might be necessary for contemporary conveniences.
Weight Distribution: While the hull is sturdy, the boat’s weight distribution can sometimes make it less responsive in certain conditions, particularly when compared to lighter, more modern designs.
Storage Space: While the interior is spacious, some owners find that storage options can be limited, especially for extended cruising.
Availability of Parts: Some specific parts may be harder to find given the boat's age, which could be a challenge for owners looking to repair or upgrade components. ### Conclusion The 1971 Pearson Competitor stands out as a solid option for sailing enthusiasts looking for a classic boat that offers reliability and charm. However, potential buyers should weigh the pros and cons, particularly regarding maintenance and modern conveniences, to determine if this sailboat meets their needs.
Made For
The 1971 Pearson Competitor is a popular sailboat designed for both cruising and racing enthusiasts. Known for its solid construction and reliable performance, this vessel offers a perfect balance of speed and comfort. With a length of about 30 feet, the Competitor is nimble yet spacious, providing ample room for a small crew or family. The boat is equipped with a comfortable interior that includes a well-designed galley, cozy sleeping quarters, and a functional head. The layout maximizes space while providing an inviting atmosphere for relaxation after a day on the water. Whether you're looking to participate in weekend races or enjoy leisurely cruising, the Pearson Competitor stands out for its stable handling and strong build quality. Its classic design and timeless appeal make it a favored choice among sailing enthusiasts. The responsiveness of its rigging and the efficiency of its hull translate to an unforgettable sailing experience, whether you're carving through waves or gliding across calm waters. This boat truly represents the essence of what a capable sailing vessel should be.
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Meet the Broker
Address
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Contact ESI Yachts about 1971 Pearson competitor
1910 Skyline Way, Anacortes, WA, 98221
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