Mirage 28 (Kelley) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Mirage 28 (Kelley) commenced in 1980. The boat's creation was rooted in the specific requirements of MORC racing, indicating a clear design goal for agility and speed within its class. Mirage Manufacturing, founded by Ken Fickett in 1971, initially specialized in high-performance sailboats, a legacy evident in the Kelley 28. The Florida-based builder consistently prioritized robust construction and a bespoke approach, distinguishing their vessels from more mass-produced alternatives. The Mirage 28 was offered with different rigging options, including a fractional rig and a masthead tall rig, allowing owners to select a configuration best suited for their sailing ambitions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 27.5 feet and a waterline of 22.33 feet, the Mirage 28 (Kelley) is characterized by a design optimized for dynamic sailing. Its calculated Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 17.67 suggests a vessel that performs well in lighter air conditions, making the most of available wind. Complementing this, a Ballast to Displacement ratio of 43.64% indicates a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to a good breeze without excessive heeling. Owners frequently describe the boat as both fast and stiff. The Displacement to Length ratio of around 220.52 places the Kelley 28 firmly in the moderate displacement category, striking a balance between the nimbleness of lighter performance boats and the stability of heavier cruisers. While not designed as an ultra-comfortable cruiser, its sailing characteristics are appreciated for their responsiveness and stability, though its comfort value is just below average compared to similar designs. It features a fin keel and a spade rudder, contributing to its maneuverability and performance-oriented handling.

Accommodations and Layout

Information regarding the specific interior layout of the Mirage 28 (Kelley) is limited in detailed online resources. However, for a sailboat of its 27.5-foot length from the early 1980s, typical accommodations would likely include a V-berth forward for sleeping, a compact marine head, a small salon area with settees that may convert into berths, and a galley module. Standing headroom throughout the cabin might be limited, particularly in the forward sections. Given Mirage Manufacturing's reputation for quality construction, the interior finish would generally be expected to be functional and durable, often incorporating wood trim and solid fiberglass components, with practical storage solutions for cruising essentials.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Mirage 28 (Kelley) generally praise its sailing capabilities, often describing it as a fast and stiff boat. The robust construction, a hallmark of Mirage Manufacturing, instills confidence in owners. While some forum discussions allude to the Mirage 28 line having ample room for families, particularly for longer trips in certain configurations like bilge keelers, the fin-keel Kelley 28 is primarily lauded for its performance aspects. One owner noted that the boat performed "exactly as Builder described," highlighting a consistent sailing experience. While general maintenance is always a factor with older vessels, no widely reported, recurring design flaws or common problems are extensively documented for this specific model in readily available online discussions, though one instance of bulkhead and deck repair was mentioned by an owner.