Mirage 24 Information, Review, Specs

The Mirage 24's story began in 1972 when Dick Steffen, founder of Mirage Yachts Ltd., sought a 24-foot MORC design from C&C Yachts, where he had previously run a high-volume dealership. When C&C declined to produce a smaller model than their 27-footer, Steffen acquired the design and established his own manufacturing facility in Pointe Claire, Quebec, thus launching the Mirage 24 as the company's inaugural model. This fiberglass boat quickly demonstrated its racing prowess, notably winning the production-built division at the MORC national championships even 15 years after its introduction. The Mirage 24's success even prompted C&C to release their own similarly sized C&C 25, though the Mirage continued to outperform it in races.

The Mirage 24 was designed to be nearly identical to the Northern 1/4 Ton, while specifically adhering to the MORC rule. During its production run, the Mirage 24 was offered with at least two different rig configurations: a "Tall Rig" and a "Short Rig." The Tall Rig featured an 'I' dimension of 29.50 feet (8.99m) and a 'P' of 25.30 feet (7.71m), resulting in a calculated sail area of 237.75 sq ft (22.09 m2). The Short Rig had an 'I' of 26.50 feet (8.08m) and a 'P' of 22.80 feet (6.95m), with a corresponding sail area of 213.87 sq ft (19.87 m2). The choice between a tall or standard rig often depends on the typical sailing conditions of a given area, with standard rigs sometimes preferred in areas with consistently strong winds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Mirage 24, with a length overall of just under 24 feet (23.83 ft) and a waterline length of 20.08 feet, features a fin keel and transom-hung rudder, indicative of a design focused on responsiveness and efficiency. Its displacement of 3,700 lbs and a calculated displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 204 suggest it falls into the category of a moderately weighted sailboat, balancing cruising comfort with a degree of performance. While not an extreme light-air performer, its sail area to displacement ratio of about 14.96 indicates it is well-suited for moderate to strong breezes.

A significant aspect of its design is the ballast-to-displacement ratio of 40.54%. This relatively high percentage of ballast, at 1,500 lbs, contributes to the boat's stiffness and stability, enabling it to stand up well to wind and providing a secure feel on the water. Owners and reviewers frequently describe the Mirage 24 as an easily handled boat that is capable of navigating through waves effectively. It has been affectionately termed a "ladies boat" by some, highlighting its ease of sailing. It is noted for its ability to perform well both as a racer and a cruiser, maintaining good speed without being overly demanding.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures for the Mirage 24 are not consistently available, its interior layout is designed to provide functional accommodations within its compact dimensions. Reviews and tours suggest a typical arrangement that includes two berths, a small galley area, and a head. The interior is generally described as basic but functional, prioritizing the boat's sailing capabilities. The focus on a solid hull construction, often described as strong, suggests that the interior finish, while not luxurious, is robust and durable. Owners have found it suitable for both racing and short-term cruising, appreciating its size for affordability and manageable maintenance.

Owner's Perspectives

Mirage 24 owners generally praise the boat for its robust build quality and impressive performance for its size. Many consider it an excellent value, noting that for a 40-year-old design, it remains easily handled and capable of surprising on the race course. Owners frequently highlight its solid hull construction, with some noting the hull's strength even after minor cosmetic damage. The boat is often seen as a versatile choice, appealing to those interested in both competitive club racing and comfortable coastal cruising. Its relative affordability and low maintenance burden are also commonly cited as advantages. There is an active community of Mirage owners, indicating continued appreciation for these durable and well-sailing vessels.