Feltham Mirage 28 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Mirage 28 is characterized by a conservative masthead sloop rig and a hull shape that prioritizes stability over outright speed. With a displacement of approximately 7,000 lbs and a ballast ratio of roughly 40%, the vessel is remarkably stiff and handles heavy weather with a "sea-kindly" motion that belies its 28-foot length. According to editorial assessments by Practical Boat Owner, the boat is known for its predictable tracking and ability to carry full sail well into a Force 4 or 5.

The performance characteristics vary significantly depending on the keel configuration. The fin-keel version, drawing 4’6”, offers superior pointing ability and reduced leeway when beating to windward. However, the bilge-keel (twin keel) variant was the more prolific seller in the UK market. While the bilge keel version loses some efficiency upwind, its shallow 3’3” draft and ability to stand upright on a drying mooring make it an ideal choice for the shallow waters of the East Coast of England. The boat’s relatively high Displacement/Length ratio ensures it maintains momentum through a chop, though it can be somewhat sluggish in light airs compared to contemporary racing designs.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel of its era and size, the Mirage 28 offers an exceptional amount of interior living space, boasting approximately six feet of headroom in the main saloon. The layout is traditional yet efficient: a forward V-berth, a heads compartment with a hanging locker opposite, and a main saloon with a central folding table. Most versions feature a dinette that converts to a double berth, a single settee berth to starboard, and a generous quarter berth aft of the navigation station.

Thames Marine utilized a GRP inner-molding system for the interior, which provided a clean, easy-to-maintain finish and added structural rigidity. While this method can sometimes limit access to the hull for repairs, it allowed for the inclusion of molded-in storage bins and a functional galley. The Mirage 28 saw several evolutionary steps during its production run. The later Mirage 2700 and Mirage 29 models, which shared much of the 28’s design DNA, offered more modernized deck moldings and refined interior woodwork, yet the 28 remains the most celebrated for its "tardis-like" proportions.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Mirage 28 should focus on three primary areas during an inspection: the hull, the chainplates, and the engine. Like many GRP boats from the 1970s, osmosis is a recurring topic; while rarely structural in these heavily built hulls, it is a common point of negotiation.

A specific area of concern for this model involves the chainplate attachments. Over decades of use, the deck-to-hull joints and the points where shroud tension is transferred to the bulkheads can develop leaks or stress fractures. If water has penetrated the plywood bulkheads, the structural integrity of the rig may be compromised. Additionally, the original engines were often the Bukh 10 or 20, or the Yanmar YS series. While these are famously robust, sourcing parts for older Bukh models is becoming increasingly expensive, and many boats have since been repowered with Beta or Nanni diesels. Buyers should also inspect the rudder stock and bushings, as the spade rudder can develop play over time, leading to a "vibrating" sensation at the helm.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Mirage 28 benefit from one of the most active and technically proficient owner associations in the UK. The Snapdragon Mirage and Invaders Association serves as a vital repository for original brochures, technical drawings, and repair guides. This community is instrumental for owners looking to maintain the original specifications of their vessels or seeking advice on modifications such as modernizing the sail plan or installing new electronics.

The Verdict

The Mirage 28 is an honest, robust cruiser that provides a cost-effective entry point into coastal sailing without sacrificing the safety and comfort required for family adventures.

Pros

• Exceptional Headroom: Rare to find a full six feet of standing room in a 28-footer of this vintage.
• Keel Options: The bilge keel version is perfect for drying moorings and shallow-water cruising.
• Built to Last: Solid fiberglass construction and a high ballast ratio offer peace of mind in heavy weather.
• Active Support: Strong community backing through the SMIA association.

Cons

• Light Air Performance: The heavy displacement makes it a slow mover in light winds.
• Aged Systems: Original engines and wiring often require significant investment if not already upgraded.
• Osmosis Risk: Typical of the era, many hulls show signs of blistering.