Paceship 2-16 Information, Review, Specs

This model was part of a broader design evolution at the Mahone Bay facility, where the "2-" prefix designated a new era of fiberglass tooling and contemporary naval architecture. The 2-16 shared this lineage with its larger siblings, the 2-20, the 2-23 (which would evolve into the highly successful PY23), and the 2-26 (the precursor to the PY26). While its larger relatives moved toward encapsulated ballasted keels and overnight accommodations, the 2-16 remained a dedicated open-cockpit boat, maximizing deck space for social sailing.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Paceship 2-16 are defined by its 6'2" beam and a relatively flat run aft, which provides significant initial stability. For a boat with a 16-foot waterline, it feels remarkably "big" underfoot, a trait common to Hunt designs. The boat utilized a weighted kick-up centerboard, which allowed for a minimum draft of just 7 inches with the board up, making it an ideal candidate for beaching or navigating thin water. With the board fully extended to its 4'0" depth, the 2-16 exhibits respectable upwind tracking and reduced leeway.

While not a high-performance skiff, the 2-16 is capable of spirited performance in a breeze. According to technical specifications maintained by the Paceship Owners Site, the boat carries approximately 135 square feet of sail area. This sail-to-weight ratio is tuned for safety; the boat is stiff enough to forgive the late reefing of a novice sailor but possesses enough sail area to remain moving in light air. Handling is generally described as neutral, with the large rudder providing enough authority to maneuver easily in crowded marinas or narrow channels.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a Paceship 2-16 today, the primary concern is the integrity of the fiberglass sandwich and the buoyancy foam. Like many boats of this era, Paceship utilized foam flotation for safety. Over decades, if the hull or deck seals have been compromised, this foam can become waterlogged. This "heavy boat syndrome" significantly impacts performance and trailerability.

1. Centerboard Trunk: Inspect the trunk for stress cracks or evidence of leaking where it meets the hull. The weighted board can put significant leverage on the trunk during a grounding.
2. Mast Step: The 2-16 features a deck-set mast. Check for "crazing" or compression around the mast step, which may indicate a softening of the underlying core.
3. Rudder Hardware: The kick-up rudder assembly uses specific castings. Ensure the pivot points are not wallowed out and that the locking mechanism remains functional.
4. Hardware Backing: Earlier models occasionally lacked substantial backing plates for cleats and stay chainplates. Check for deck flexing when these components are under load.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and historical preservation is the Paceship Owners Site, which hosts original brochures, rigging guides, and a registry of surviving hulls. Because Paceship went through several corporate transitions, including the sale of tooling to AMF and Tanzer, this community resource is often the only way to verify original parts and configurations for the "Second Generation" Hunt designs.

The Verdict

The Paceship 2-16 remains a highly regarded choice for sailors who prioritize cockpit space and stability over the complexity of a cabin. It is a robustly built "middleweight" daysailer that benefits from the pedigree of one of the 20th century's most influential design firms.

Pros:

• Massive Cockpit: Easily accommodates a family of four or five without crowding the helm.
• Design Pedigree: The Hunt-designed hull offers a superior balance of stability and dry sailing.
• Versatility: The shallow 7-inch draft with the board up allows for easy trailering and beaching.

Cons:

• Weight: At roughly 550 lbs, it is heavier than many modern 16-footers, requiring a dedicated trailer rather than a simple dolly.
• Aging Foam: Potential for waterlogged flotation foam can be a difficult and expensive issue to remediate.
• Limited Parts: Specific Paceship-branded hardware and castings are no longer in production, often requiring custom fabrication.