Mirage 39 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Mirage 39's inception in 1989 came at a pivotal time for Mirage Yachts Ltd. Under the leadership of Dick Steffen, the Canadian builder, initially known for its performance-oriented designs, had begun collaborating with French designer Philippe Harlé to adapt to the "French Invasion" of sailboats in the mid-1980s. This period saw a rise in demand for yachts offering more avant-garde styling and spacious accommodations Builder's Article. The Mirage 39, following the success of the Mirage 29 and 275, was a direct result of this partnership, aiming to combine the established sailing qualities of Mirage with the contemporary design trends championed by Harlé Builder's Article.

Mirage Yachts Ltd. was renowned for its robust construction, primarily utilizing solid fiberglass for hulls and decks Builder's Article. The Mirage 39 continued this tradition, featuring a solid fiberglass hull and deck, ensuring durability and structural integrity. Her design incorporates a fin keel and a masthead sloop rig, configurations chosen for a blend of performance and ease of handling. The collaboration with Philippe Harlé, a designer credited with over 14,000 boats, underscored Mirage's commitment to thoughtful and effective naval architecture.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Mirage 39, with a length overall of 39.18 feet and a waterline length of 32.83 feet, is characterized by its moderate displacement, designed to offer a comfortable motion in a seaway without sacrificing responsiveness. With a displacement of 16,000 lbs, her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio is approximately 202. This ratio places her squarely in the category of a moderate displacement cruiser, suggesting a boat capable of respectable speeds in varying conditions while providing a stable platform for offshore passages.

Her ballast, weighing 6,000 lbs, contributes to a Ballast to Displacement ratio of approximately 37.5%. This ratio indicates a good level of stiffness, allowing the Mirage 39 to stand up to a breeze and carry sail effectively, enhancing both comfort and performance. While specific reported sail area figures for the Mirage 39 are not consistently available, her masthead sloop rig implies a versatile sail plan suitable for a range of wind conditions. With a maximum draft of 6.17 feet, she offers a deep enough foil for efficient upwind performance. Powered by a single 27 HP Volvo Penta diesel engine, she also has ample auxiliary power for maneuvering and motoring.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Mirage 39, while not extensively documented in widely available specifications, was designed to align with the "French Invasion" trend, emphasizing spaciousness and liveability. These designs typically featured layouts optimized for comfort during extended cruising, often including multiple cabin configurations, a functional galley, a dedicated navigation station, and a head compartment. With a generous beam of 12.5 feet, the Mirage 39 would likely offer a relatively open and inviting salon area. The focus on accommodating comfort suggests well-appointed wood trim and ample storage throughout, aiming to make life aboard pleasant for owners and their guests. The boat is equipped with a water capacity of 75 US gallons, indicating suitability for multi-day voyages.