Mirage 37 (Feltham) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Mirage 37's origins are rooted in Thames Marine's well-established manufacturing ethos, which emphasized practical, sturdy, and accessible yachts. David Feltham, the English designer behind the Mirage 37, created a vessel that aligned with the builder's reputation for constructing comfortable and reliable cruisers, well-suited for both coastal exploration and more ambitious offshore passages.

Thames Marine, operating as Thames Structural Plastics (TSP) Ltd. from 1959, quickly became adept at fiberglass construction. During the Mirage 37's production run from 1974, the company was known for its efficient use of fiberglass and largely in-house design capabilities, aiming to provide good value to the cruising market. A notable feature of the Mirage 37's design was its offering in two distinct keel configurations: a primary twin keel version with a draft of 4.5 feet and a deeper fin keel option drawing 5.51 feet. This choice allowed owners to select between enhanced shallow-water access, a hallmark of many Thames Marine designs like the Snapdragon series, and potentially improved upwind performance offered by a fin keel.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Mirage 37's design specifications reflect its role as a heavy displacement cruiser rather than an out-and-out performance racer. With a reported sail area of 550 square feet and a displacement of 14,720 pounds, its sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) calculates to approximately 14.56. This relatively low figure suggests the Mirage 37 is a heavy sailboat that may be "slightly under powered" in lighter winds, requiring a decent breeze to truly get moving. However, this characteristic often translates to a more comfortable and stable ride in challenging conditions.

The boat's ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) of around 40.76% indicates a good degree of stiffness, allowing it to stand up to its canvas and resist heeling, further contributing to its stable nature. Its displacement to length ratio (Disp/LWL) is approximately 302.7, firmly placing it in the heavy displacement category. This heavy build, coupled with its substantial ballast, provides a "very stable / stiff" platform with "good righting capability if capsized."

Anecdotal reports on the Mirage 37's sailing performance vary; one owner described it as a "big slightly tubby" ketch that "sails remarkably well", while another forum contributor suggested it "didn't sail particularly well." This disparity likely reflects the expectations of individual sailors and the specific conditions encountered. The ketch rig, while offering flexibility in sail management, typically results in "poorer windward performance" compared to a sloop rig of comparable size. However, it excels off the wind and provides a balanced sail plan for comfortable cruising. The existence of a fin keel option likely offered a noticeable improvement in upwind ability for those prioritizing performance over shallow draft.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of 36.17 feet, the Mirage 37 is noted for offering generous interior volume, with owners frequently praising its "lots of headroom." Previous Search Result The typical layout includes two cabins and two bathrooms, in addition to a main saloon, providing a comfortable and private living space for a vessel of its size and era. Previous Search Result

The interior design of Thames Marine yachts generally prioritized practicality and comfort, often featuring warm wood trim and durable fiberglass surfaces common in 1970s British boatbuilding. While specific details on the exact finish quality, choice of materials, and dedicated storage solutions for the Mirage 37 are not extensively documented in available reviews, it can be inferred that the focus was on creating a functional and welcoming environment suitable for extended cruising. Good ventilation would typically be provided by deck hatches and opening ports, contributing to comfort during warmer climates or at anchor.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Mirage 37 often laud its robust construction and the comfortable motion afforded by its heavy displacement and high ballast ratio, making it a reliable vessel in varied sea states. The spacious interior, particularly the generous headroom and multiple cabin/bathroom layout, is consistently highlighted as a significant advantage for liveaboards or families cruising for extended periods. Previous Search Result The versatility offered by the twin keel option for shallow water cruising remains a key appeal for many.

While some anecdotal evidence suggests the boat might be "slightly under powered" or exhibit "poorer windward performance" with its ketch rig, especially the twin keel version, many owners find this a manageable trade-off for the boat's stability and comfort. Common maintenance issues are not widely documented for the Mirage 37 specifically, but like many fiberglass boats of its age, potential areas of concern could include older engine systems (the original engine was a Thornycroft 154 diesel), aging deck fittings requiring re-bedding, and the general wear and tear on electrical and plumbing systems typical of vessels from the 1970s. The enduring appeal of Thames Marine yachts, including the Mirage series, is underscored by an active owner community, with associations like the Snapdragon Mirage and Invaders Association providing invaluable support and a platform for shared knowledge among enthusiasts.