Mirage 2700 (UK) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Mirage 2700 commenced in 1979, coinciding with Thames Marine's established era of crafting accessible and sturdy fiberglass yachts. The company, which began as Thames Structural Plastics, had by this time developed significant expertise in fiberglass construction and a clear design philosophy focused on practical, comfortable cruisers well-suited for coastal and offshore sailing. The Mirage 2700 itself is thought to be based on the hull lines of the David Feltham-designed Mirage 28, but with a notable redesign that included a raised deck and a truncated stern, contributing to its distinctive profile and enhanced interior volume. While the standard configuration featured twin keels (also known as bilge keels), which were a hallmark of many Thames Marine vessels designed for safely taking the ground in tidal areas, the Mirage 2700 was also available with a fin keel option, offering a deeper draft for potentially different performance characteristics.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 25 feet (25.42 ft) and a displacement of 6,000 lbs, the Mirage 2700 positions itself as a moderate-weight cruiser. Her sailing characteristics are largely influenced by her robust build and generous ballast ratio. The ballast of 2,850 lbs contributes to a high ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.475, indicating a stiff and stable boat capable of standing up to a good breeze. While her sail area to displacement ratio, at around 13.97, suggests she may be slightly underpowered for very light winds, she is known to sail well and offers good performance as a cruising yacht. Her displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 289 further categorizes her as a heavier, more traditional cruiser, emphasizing stability and comfort over outright speed. Owners often praise the Mirage 2700 for its good handling and balanced feel under sail, with the bilge keel version, in particular, noted for sailing beautifully. Her masthead sloop rig, typical of the era, offers simplicity and reliability for cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The Mirage 2700 is widely recognized for its excellent and remarkably spacious accommodation for a yacht of its size. Inside, the layout is designed for comfortable family cruising, providing "roomy" living spaces. Many owners report that the saloon offers standing headroom, a significant advantage on a boat under 30 feet, and there is decent headroom in the fore cabin as well. The typical interior arrangement includes at least one decent-sized double berth, often in the V-berth forward. The saloon usually features a conventional table, providing a comfortable dining and lounging area. While specific details vary by individual boat and owner modifications, the general finish quality of Thames Marine boats of this era leaned towards practicality and durability, often featuring solid fiberglass construction. Due to its compact size, amenities such as a dedicated shower are generally not considered practicable on board.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Mirage 2700 consistently highlight its solid construction and comfortable motion in a seaway as key strengths. The twin keel configuration is frequently praised for its ability to explore shallow creeks and estuaries, allowing safe drying out in tidal berths, which is a significant advantage for many British sailors. The boat is generally considered well-built and robust, offering good value and reliable performance. However, like many boats of its vintage, potential buyers and current owners should be aware of common maintenance areas. A recurring issue noted by some owners involves water ingress around bulkheads, suggesting that thorough inspection for stains and potential re-sealing work might be necessary on older examples. The vibrant community surrounding Thames Marine yachts, particularly through associations like the Snapdragon, Mirage and Invaders Association, provides invaluable support, resources, and shared knowledge for owners.