Paceship P 14 Information, Review, Specs

The Paceship P 14 began production in 1969, at a time when Paceship Yachts was establishing itself as a significant manufacturer of fiberglass sailboats in Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia. The company, which emerged from the rebuilding of the Industrial Shipping Company Limited after a fire in 1956, was among the first to fully embrace fiberglass for both runabouts and sailboats. This era saw Paceship focus on creating practical and accessible sailboats for a broad market, often collaborating with renowned naval architects. The P 14 was designed by Bela Molnar, an architect who aimed for a "significantly more spacy hull design" for this small dinghy. Production of Paceship boats, including likely the P 14, continued until the company ceased operations in 1981. There is no widely documented evidence of significant variations or different marks during the P 14's production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a small, fractional sloop with a length overall of 13.5 feet and a waterline length of 11.04 feet, the Paceship P 14 is designed for nimble performance. Weighing in at approximately 400 pounds, it is a lightweight vessel, contributing to its ease of launching and retrieval. The P 14 features a centerboard keel, which is a pivoting lifting keel that allows the boat to sail effectively in both coastal and inland waters by adjusting its draft from a minimum of 0.67 feet to a maximum of 3.67 feet. Its hull speed is calculated at 4.45 knots, indicative of a sprightly dinghy capable of enjoyable sailing in appropriate conditions. Owners note that it sails as one would expect for a boat of its size, though some perceive its hull and centerboard as being a bit heavier than comparable dinghies. This design makes it a responsive boat, well-suited for learning to sail or for experienced sailors looking for a straightforward day sailer.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact dimensions of just over 13 feet in length and a beam of 5.83 feet, the Paceship P 14 is primarily a daysailer with very limited or no dedicated interior accommodations. The design intent focuses on an open cockpit layout for crew and sailing efficiency rather than extended cruising comfort. Information regarding a specific interior layout or maximum headroom is not readily available, suggesting that any enclosed space would likely be a basic cuddy cabin for storage rather than living quarters. The emphasis is on a simple, functional arrangement conducive to on-the-water activity.