Mirage 30 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Mirage 30 debuted in 1983, a pivotal year for Mirage Yachts Ltd. as they also introduced other successful Robert Perry designs like the Mirage 33 and 35. This period marked a decade of steady growth for the company, largely driven by the highly successful partnership between Mirage's founder, Dick Steffen, and designer Robert Perry. Mirage Yachts' manufacturing ethos emphasized producing fiberglass boats that performed well on the race course while offering comfortable cruising capabilities. The company had expanded significantly by this time, relocating to larger facilities in Vaudreuil, Quebec, to accommodate the increasing demand for their models.

The Mirage 30 was specifically designed as a masthead sloop with a fin keel and spade rudder, a configuration chosen for both performance and handling. While specific design philosophy details for the Mirage 30 are not extensively documented, Robert Perry's designs for Mirage were generally aimed at striking a balance between sailing prowess and livability. The boat's development came at a time when Mirage was seeking to offer larger, well-regarded cruising yachts to its discerning clientele. There is no widespread information suggesting significant "MkI" or "MkII" variations during its production run, though individual owners may have customized their vessels.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Mirage 30's design ratios provide insight into its likely sailing characteristics. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 17.34, the Mirage 30 falls into a category indicative of reasonably good performance. This ratio suggests a boat capable of moving well in a range of conditions, offering a good balance between light-air speed and control in heavier winds. Its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of 0.35 (35%) indicates a moderate degree of stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up to its sail plan effectively without excessive heeling. This contributes to a more comfortable motion and better performance, particularly upwind. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 266.8 categorizes the Mirage 30 as a moderate displacement vessel. This suggests it is neither a lightweight, planing-oriented racer nor a heavy, traditional cruiser, but rather a well-rounded design that combines a degree of speed with a comfortable ride in varied sea states. Owners and reviewers often describe the Mirage 30 as a "good performer" that is "fast" and stable, making it well-suited for both cruising and racing.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Mirage 30 is designed to maximize comfort and utility within its 30-foot length, making it suitable for family cruising. Although specific headroom measurements are not widely published, the interior is often described as spacious, particularly given its 10.5-foot beam which is carried aft, contributing to generous living spaces. The typical layout includes a V-berth forward, providing sleeping accommodations. The main salon usually features settees that can serve as berths, often with a folding table. The galley is generally located along one side, equipped with essentials like a sink, stove, and icebox or refrigerator, offering practical space for meal preparation. A dedicated head compartment is standard. A notable feature is often a decent aft cabin or quarter berth arrangement, which is praised for its size, making the boat comparable to more modern designs in terms of interior comfort and layout. The finish quality often features wood trim, contributing to a warm and traditional marine ambiance. Storage is typically adequate for a boat of this size, and ventilation is provided through deck hatches and portlights. Overall, the interior is considered comfortable and well-designed, enhancing its appeal as a cruiser.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners generally hold the Mirage 30 in high regard, often praising its robust fiberglass construction and solid build quality, which allows these boats to endure well over time. Many consider it an "excellent racer/cruiser" that continues to perform competitively in club races while offering sufficient comfort for extended cruising. Its handling characteristics are frequently complimented, with owners noting its stability and responsiveness. The interior layout, especially the spaciousness provided by its beam, is a recurring positive comment, with the aft cabin or quarter berth often highlighted as a significant advantage for a boat of this size.

However, as with any older vessel, potential weaknesses often revolve around the aging of original components. While not explicitly detailed as common problems in broad owner reviews, typical maintenance considerations for boats of this vintage might include re-bedding deck fittings to prevent leaks, ensuring the integrity of the standing and running rigging, and updating original engine components or electrical systems. Despite these potential areas for attention, the active communities and ongoing interest in Mirage sailboats, particularly in the used boat market, underscore their enduring appeal and the satisfaction of their owners.