Sailing Performance & Handling
The C&C influence is immediately apparent in the P2-20’s hull form, which favors a relatively flat run aft and a fine entry. This design choice provides a lively feel on the helm, particularly in light to moderate winds. Because the P2-20 was designed as a "big" 20-footer, it possesses a fair amount of form stability, which helps it remain stiff even when the breeze freshens. According to technical archives on the Paceship Owners Site, the boat carries a displacement of approximately 2,200 pounds, with roughly 450 to 500 pounds of that serving as ballast.
On the water, the P2-20 is known for its predictable tracking. The swing keel (centerboard) configuration allows for a draft as shallow as 12 inches with the board up, making it an ideal choice for "gunkholing" in areas where deeper draft vessels cannot venture. With the board fully extended to its 4-foot depth, the boat displays the windward performance one would expect from a C&C design, though it remains a cruiser at heart rather than a dedicated racer. Owners often report that the boat handles well under a standard working jib, but it truly comes alive with a genoa in light air.
Interior Comfort & Variations
For a vessel under 20 feet, the P2-20 offers a surprisingly functional interior layout intended for weekend coastal hopping or overnights. The cabin features a classic V-berth forward, which is best suited for two children or one adult, and two quarter-berths that extend under the cockpit seats. While headroom is limited—typical for a boat of this size where "sitting headroom" is the standard—the cabin remains relatively airy due to the large side windows.
The interior finish usually includes molded fiberglass liners, which make the boat easy to clean and maintain, though they provide less thermal insulation than the wood-heavy interiors of larger Paceship models. The P2-20 was the junior sibling to the Paceship 23, another Cuthbertson & Cassian design that utilized a similar aesthetic but offered a more substantial galley and head arrangement. While the P2-20's amenities are Spartan—often consisting of a simple space for a portable head and a small cooler—the layout maximizes the available volume for stowage of sails and safety gear.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of a Paceship P2-20 should focus their inspection on the specific structural elements common to fiberglass boats of this era.
- Centerboard Mechanism: The pendant (cable) and the pivot bolt are high-wear items. It is essential to inspect the trunk for cracks or significant play, as a vibrating centerboard can lead to structural fatigue over decades.
- Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats built in the late 60s and early 70s, the P2-20 utilizes a balsa-cored deck. Moisture ingress around deck fittings, chainplates, or the mast step can lead to delamination and soft spots.
- Mast Step and Compression: Check the area beneath the mast for any sagging. If the compression post or the supporting deck structure has weakened, the rig tension may cause the deck to deflect.
- Rudder Hardware: The gudgeons and pintles are prone to corrosion or loosening. Ensure the rudder head is solid and that the tiller does not have excessive play.
Community & Resources
The P2-20 benefits from one of the most dedicated owner communities for vintage fiberglass boats. The Paceship Owners Site acts as a central repository for original brochures, line drawings, and technical manuals. This community is an essential resource for sourcing replacement hardware or seeking advice on restoring the unique C&C-designed swing keel.
The Verdict
The Paceship P2-20 is a robust, trailerable classic that offers a level of design pedigree rarely found in the 20-foot market. It is an excellent entry-level cruiser for those who value sailing performance as much as shallow-water accessibility.
Pros:
- Exceptional Versatility: The 12-inch "board up" draft allows for beaching and easy trailering.
- Design Pedigree: C&C styling ensures the boat looks modern despite its age and sails better than many of its heavier competitors.
- Active Community: Strong owner support makes restoration and maintenance much easier for new owners.
Cons:
- Limited Headroom: The cabin is strictly for sitting or sleeping, which may feel cramped for extended cruising.
- Aging Hardware: Original centerboard components and deck fittings will likely require replacement if not already addressed by previous owners.
- Weight: At 2,200 lbs plus the trailer, it requires a capable towing vehicle compared to lighter modern dinghies or ultra-light daysailers.
