The Pearson 30 was designed by naval architect Bill Shaw. Approximately 1,185 fin-keeled, spade-rudder P30 sloops were produced in Portsmouth, Rhode Island from 1971 to 1981 attesting to her tremendous popularity. The P30 was designed, primarily as a coastal cruiser, however, she had a good turn of speed and was successfully and actively raced throughout the country under PHRF, IOR, and MORC certification. She won the 3/4 Ton North American Championship in 1972.