Mirage 27 (Perry) Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Mirage 27 traces back to Robert Perry's earlier design, the Mirage 26, drawn in 1976. The Mirage 27, which began production in 1982, was essentially an extended version of the 26, retaining much of its core design while offering slightly more room. This model emerged from a pivotal period for Mirage Yachts Ltd., when the company's founder, Dick Steffen, turned to Robert Perry for larger designs after being declined by C&C. This collaboration with Perry, known for designing some of the most successful cruising yachts, marked a decade of significant growth for Mirage Yachts. The company's philosophy, reflected in boats like the Mirage 27, was to build "wholesome family cruisers" that nonetheless performed at the "upper end of the performance scale."

The Mirage 27 is constructed with a solid fiberglass hull and deck, indicative of the robust building practices of Mirage Yachts Ltd. Its design features a fin keel and a spade rudder, a configuration typical of performance-oriented cruisers of its era, promising responsive handling.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of nearly 28 feet and a waterline length of 21.67 feet, the Mirage 27 is characterized by a balanced set of performance ratios. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 16.86 suggests a boat with respectable light-air performance, capable of moving well in a variety of conditions, without being overly powerful or tender.

The Ballast to Displacement ratio of about 0.423 indicates a relatively high percentage of ballast, pointing to a stiff and stable vessel. This contributes to its ability to stand up to a breeze and carry sail effectively, making for a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 228.4 places the Mirage 27 in the moderate displacement category. This signifies a boat that is neither ultra-light for pure speed nor excessively heavy, striking a balance that supports both comfortable cruising and engaging sailing.

Anecdotal evidence supports the Mirage 27's "superior sailing ability" and its reputation as a "good boat" for its size. It has even proven capable as a training vessel, successfully training many sailors. These characteristics confirm its design as a capable and manageable vessel, particularly well-suited for coastal waters.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures are not available, the Mirage 27, as an extension of the Mirage 26, offered "roomy accommodations for its length." The interior typically features a traditional layout with settees positioned to both port and starboard in the main salon. Distinguishing it from its predecessor, the Mirage 27 often incorporated more wood trim, contributing to a warmer and more finished interior aesthetic.

For a boat of its size, a typical layout would include a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a main salon with opposing settees that may convert to berths, and a compact galley. Storage would likely be found beneath settees and berths, with some cabinetry. Ventilation would typically be provided through an overhead hatch and opening ports, common features on cruising boats of this vintage, designed to ensure comfort at anchor.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Mirage 27 generally praise its solid construction and sailing characteristics. However, common issues noted in owner discussions tend to revolve around maintenance items typical of boats of its age. These can include moisture problems in the deck and rudder, potentially requiring repairs, and the need for bulkhead maintenance due to moisture. Some owners have also discussed the "smile" at the keel-hull connection, investigating whether it indicates normal movement or a more significant structural issue. Despite these potential maintenance considerations, the Mirage 27 continues to be appreciated by owners for its enduring quality and reliable performance.