Paceship 17 Information, Review, Specs

The Paceship 17 entered production in 1966, emerging from the boatyards of Paceship Yachts Ltd. in Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia. This period marked a significant era for Paceship, which had transitioned from building plywood speedboats to becoming one of the earliest manufacturers to fully embrace fiberglass for small runabouts and sailboats following a plant rebuild in 1956. The company's ethos, driven by accessibility and practical design, aligned perfectly with the vision of C&C Design for the Paceship 17.

C&C Design, known for their well-engineered vessels, crafted the Paceship 17 as a fractional sloop with a centerboard keel. This design choice was deliberate, aiming to create a boat that was not only stable but also highly adaptable to varying water depths. The centerboard allows the minimum draft to be a mere 0.67 feet, extending to a maximum of 4.16 feet when deployed, enabling sailors to navigate shallow waters and even beach the boat with ease. The fractional rig, characterized by its smaller headsails, simplifies tacking, a notable advantage for those learning to sail or seeking a relaxed cruising experience.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a compact sailing dinghy, the Paceship 17 is designed for approachable performance and predictable handling. Its fractional sloop rig, with a reported sail area of 134 square feet, provides efficient power while ensuring that the boat remains manageable, particularly for single-handed sailing or for those with less experience. The fractional rig's smaller headsails contribute to easier tacking, making the boat responsive and forgiving.

With a hull speed calculated at 5.22 knots, the Paceship 17 offers respectable speed for its size. Its centerboard keel is a key feature, enhancing versatility by allowing the boat to transition effortlessly between deeper coastal waters and shallow inland lakes or rivers. This design also aids in reducing draft for trailering or storage. Owners often describe the Paceship 17 as a stable and balanced vessel, well-suited for teaching basic sailing skills due to its forgiving nature and straightforward controls.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its designation as a small sailing dinghy and daysailer, the Paceship 17 is primarily configured for on-deck activity rather than extensive interior accommodations. The design focuses on an open cockpit layout, typical of boats intended for day trips and recreational sailing. This means that while functional for its purpose, the interior space is minimal. The boat does not feature significant enclosed living spaces, and specific details on headroom or elaborate interior layouts are not available, consistent with a vessel of its size and design intent. The emphasis is squarely on providing an enjoyable and accessible sailing experience in the open air, with simple storage for essentials.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Paceship 17 often highlight its suitability as a beginner-friendly boat and a reliable daysailer. Many appreciate its solid fiberglass construction, which contributes to its longevity and low maintenance requirements. The Paceship 17 is frequently compared to other popular daysailers of its era, admired for its simplicity and the joy it brings to casual sailing. Some owners have customized their boats, such as adding a mast hinge for easier rigging and de-rigging, further enhancing its practicality for trailering and launching. Its role as a vessel for teaching sailing is also a frequently mentioned positive, underscoring its forgiving nature and stable platform.