Mirage 30 SX Information, Review, Specs

The Mirage 30 SX emerged from a strategic shift at Mirage Yachts Ltd., a company founded by Dick and Irene Steffen in 1972, known for producing sailboats that skillfully balanced competitive performance with comfortable cruising. After early successes with their Mirage 24, Mirage Yachts sought to directly challenge the dominance of J/Boats in the racing scene, leading to collaborations with Bruce Kirby, renowned for his designs like the Laser dinghy.

The original Kirby 30, introduced in 1981, was Mirage's answer to the popular J/30, quickly becoming known as a "rocket" on the water. The Mirage 30 SX, which commenced production in 1985, represented a further refinement of this racing pedigree. Bruce Kirby specifically designed the 30 SX as a lighter version of the Kirby 30, incorporating a distinct deck molding, a larger rig, a deeper elliptical keel, and a more racing-oriented cockpit and interior. This evolution underscored Mirage Yachts' commitment to high-performance sailing during a period when the North American market was increasingly influenced by performance-focused designs. Only a handful of these specialized yachts were built before Mirage Yachts ceased operations in 1989.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Mirage 30 SX is unequivocally designed for performance, as evidenced by its specifications and on-water reputation. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 23.29, she boasts an impressive amount of sail power relative to her weight, indicating strong light-air performance and the ability to accelerate quickly. Her displacement-to-length ratio of around 188.13 confirms her classification as a lighter, more performance-oriented vessel, suggesting agility and efficiency.

The boat features a fin keel and spade rudder, a configuration typical of performance-oriented designs, providing precise control and maneuverability. Owners and reviewers describe the Mirage 30 SX as a "very high performer" that is both "stable" and "stiff," capable of standing up to a breeze while maintaining a balanced helm. This combination of characteristics makes her a formidable contender on the racecourse, capable of competitive PHRF or MORC racing. While her exact ballast-to-displacement ratio is not consistently reported, her racing-focused design implies a carefully optimized balance for stiffness and speed.

Accommodations and Layout

Befitting its primary purpose as a dedicated racing machine, the Mirage 30 SX features a "more racing oriented cockpit and interior." While detailed interior specifications are limited, the design prioritizes functionality for racing crews over extensive cruising amenities. The cockpit is likely designed for efficient sail handling and crew ergonomics, with ample space for trimming lines and maneuvering during races. Interior accommodations, while present, would be characterized by a minimalist approach, providing essential amenities for overnight racing or short-term cruising, such as basic sleeping berths. The general construction of Mirage Yachts, primarily fiberglass, ensured robust and durable structures, a characteristic that extends to the 30 SX.