Mouette 19 Information, Review, Specs

The Mouette 19 entered production in 1964, continuing its run until 1975. Its creation coincided with a pivotal period for its builder, Paceship Yachts, which emerged from the Industrial Shipping Company Limited. After a devastating fire in 1956, the rebuilt facility became an early adopter of fiberglass construction for small runabouts and sailboats, marketing its larger sailboat line under the Paceship name by approximately 1962. This commitment to modern fiberglass construction allowed Paceship to produce practical and accessible sailboats for a broad market.

The Mouette 19 was conceptualized by G. William McVay, a designer who also founded McVay Yachts and contributed to other small sailboat designs like the Falcon 16 and Minuet. McVay's design philosophy for the Mouette 19 clearly leaned towards creating a high-performance centerboard daysailer. Its light displacement of 640 lbs and a length overall of just under 20 feet, combined with a 17-foot waterline, contributed to its reputation as a fast boat. The design emphasized performance and trailerability, with features like an easily raised mast and simple front stay disconnection.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Mouette 19 is characterized by its fractional sloop rig and a centerboard keel, allowing for a minimum draft of just 0.5 feet when raised and a maximum draft of 4.0 feet when lowered. This centerboard configuration offers versatility, enabling access to shallow waters and beaches while providing improved upwind performance when deployed. The boat's light planing hull is complemented by an aggressive sail plan, contributing to its reputation as a fast boat, particularly in light to moderate conditions.

Sailors often describe the Mouette 19 as a responsive and enjoyable boat to helm. Its design suggests a lively feel on the water, capable of reaching its hull speed of approximately 5.52 knots with relative ease. Owners have noted its good balance and straightforward handling, making it an appealing option for those looking to learn sailing or engage in casual racing. The trailerable nature of the Mouette 19, with its mast designed for quick raising and setting, further enhances its appeal by providing flexibility for exploring various sailing grounds.

Accommodations and Layout

Consistent with its design as a high-performance daysailer and weekender, the Paceship Mouette 19 offers a simple yet functional layout. While specific headroom figures are not widely detailed, the interior typically features a basic cabin that provides shelter and rudimentary amenities. The design prioritizes a large cockpit, which is ample for crew and guests during day trips and provides a comfortable space for sailing activities. Below decks, the cabin often includes basic sleeping berths, offering enough space for overnight stays, though without extensive standing headroom or elaborate comforts found on larger cruisers. The overall finish would reflect the practical and durable fiberglass construction common for Paceship yachts of its era, focusing on functionality over luxury.