Mirage 25 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Mirage 25 is characterized by its significant beam and masthead sloop rig. With a beam of 9 feet 6 inches—exceptionally wide for a vessel of this length—the boat offers considerable initial stability but also presents a high amount of freeboard. This design choice provides impressive interior space but creates noticeable windage, which can make the boat somewhat difficult to maneuver in tight quarters or high-wind docking situations.

Technical data indicates a displacement of 4,400 lbs with 1,600 lbs of lead ballast, giving it a ballast-to-displacement ratio of roughly 36%. According to performance notes found in Wikipedia, the boat has a theoretical hull speed of 6.14 knots. In practice, sailors often report that the boat is somewhat tender; it tends to heel quickly but reaches a "shoulder" thanks to its wide beam. Because of its asymmetrical hull shape when heeled, the Mirage 25 can develop a strong weather helm if pushed too hard. Experienced owners generally suggest reefing the mainsail early—often when winds reach 15 knots—to maintain a balanced helm and optimal speed. While a fin keel (4'4" draft) was standard, a shoal draft version (3'11") was also produced to cater to thinner waters.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Mirage 25 is its most celebrated feature, often described as having the volume of a 28-to-30-foot yacht. The standout statistic is the 5 feet 11 inches of headroom, which is nearly unheard of in the 25-foot class. The layout is typically an open-plan arrangement with a partial bulkhead separating the forward V-berth from the main salon, creating a sense of airiness.

The salon features two settee berths and a removable floor-mounted teak table. To port, a fully enclosed head offers a level of privacy rare for this size of boat, while the L-shaped galley is functional for weekend cruising. An editorial review by Canadian Boating highlights the high-quality construction of the interior, noting the use of molded fiberglass headliners and teak accents. Variations of the boat included an optional pull-out berth to convert the port settee into a double, allowing the boat to theoretically sleep five, though four adults is considered the practical limit for comfort.

The Mirage 25 was built on a hull that saw refinement in later models. Its predecessor, the Mirage 24, was a more racing-oriented design, while its successor, the Mirage 26, further expanded on the Perry-designed hull form. The Mirage 25 is often compared to the C&C 25 or the Kelt 7.6, both of which competed for the same "entry-level cruiser" market in Canada during the 1980s.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their inspections on several areas common to the Mirage 25 and similar builds of its era:

• Icebox Insulation: A known deficiency is the lack of insulation under the countertop directly above the icebox. This often leads to significant condensation issues and poor ice retention, which may require aftermarket insulation upgrades.
• Hull-Deck Joint: While Mirage advertised a "leak-proof" joint with an extruded alloy toe-rail, the age of these vessels means the sealant may have dried or cracked. Check for interior water staining along the sheer line.
• Wheel Steering Friction: While many units were tiller-steered, some were fitted with wheel steering. These systems often utilize a push-pull cable that can develop significant friction over time, leading to a "numb" feel at the helm.
• Compression Post Support: Ensure the mast support, which rests on a structural floor, is sound. Any signs of cracking in the fiberglass or sinking in the deck stepped area should be a red flag.
• Windage and Freeboard: Buyers transitioning from narrower boats should be aware that the high freeboard makes the boat a "sail" when the engine is off or at low speeds, requiring proactive helmsmanship in windy marinas.

Community & Resources

The Mirage 25 benefits from a dedicated following in North America. The most prominent group is the Mirage Owners Club, which hosts technical discussions and archives of original brochures. Owners also frequently congregate on regional forums to share advice on parts compatibility with other Canadian builds from the 1980s.

The Verdict

The Mirage 25 is an ideal "pocket cruiser" for families or couples who prioritize living space and headroom over raw racing performance. While it requires attentive sail trimming to manage its tenderness, it offers a level of accommodation that is difficult to find in any other 25-foot monohull.

Pros:

• Exceptional interior volume and 5'11" headroom.
• Fully enclosed head and functional galley layout.
• Sturdy construction with a lead keel and quality teak joinery.
• Easy to handle for a small crew or solo sailor.

Cons:

• Tender in heavy air; requires early reefing.
• Significant windage due to high freeboard.
• Common condensation issues in the galley/icebox area.
• Wheel-steered models lack the tactile feedback of the standard tiller.