Sailing Performance & Handling
The influence of Robert Perry is immediately apparent in the Mirage 28’s sailing characteristics. Featuring a swept-back fin keel and a balanced spade rudder, the boat displays a level of nimbleness often missing in 28-footers of its era. With a Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio typically situated in the moderate range and a healthy Ballast/Displacement ratio of approximately 38%, the boat is notably stiff and handles heavy air with composure. Owners and testers from the period frequently noted that the boat tracks exceptionally well for a fin-keel design, a trait Robert Perry integrated into his designs to reduce helmsman fatigue during longer passages.
In light air, the Mirage 28 remains responsive, provided the bottom is clean and the sails are well-shaped. The boat’s 9' 6" beam provides sufficient form stability to carry a large genoa in moderate breezes, allowing it to point higher than many of its contemporaries. While it was never intended as a pure racing machine, the Mirage 28’s pedigree allowed it to perform admirably in PHRF fleets, where its predictable handling and ability to "punch through" chop made it a favorite for regional coastal racing.
Interior Comfort & Variations
For a vessel under 30 feet, the Mirage 28 offers a surprisingly voluminous interior, a result of Perry’s skill in maximizing "livability" without sacrificing exterior aesthetics. The layout is traditional: a forward V-berth with an overhead hatch for ventilation, followed by a full-width head compartment. The main salon features opposing settees with a center-line drop-leaf table, and the galley is situated aft, typically equipped with a two-burner stove, a deep sink, and an icebox.
The use of teak bulkheads and trim gives the cabin a warm, traditional feel that contrasts with the "liner-heavy" look of mass-produced boats from the same period. Headroom is generous at approximately 6' 1", which was a significant selling point for taller sailors. The Mirage 28 shares much of its interior DNA with its sibling, the Mirage 27, but the extra foot of length in the 28 is primarily utilized to expand the galley and the aft quarter berth, making the 28 a far more viable option for weekend family cruising or extended coastal trips.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should approach the Mirage 28 with a focus on standard vintage fiberglass concerns, though the build quality from Mirage Manufacturing was generally above average for the 1970s.
- Deck Core Integrity: Like most boats of this era, the balsa-cored decks are susceptible to moisture intrusion around stanchion bases, chainplates, and the mast step. A thorough percussion test or moisture meter reading is essential during survey.
- Chainplate Anchors: There have been reported instances of minor "weeping" at the chainplate penetrations. If left unsealed, this can lead to rot in the bulkheads where the chainplates are through-bolted.
- Rudder Post Wear: The spade rudder is high-performing but relies on the integrity of the rudder bearings and post. Buyers should check for excessive play or "slop" in the steering system.
- Engine Maintenance: Many Mirage 28s were originally equipped with the Yanmar YSB8 or YSM12 diesel engines or the ubiquitous Atomic 4 gasoline engine. While robust, these units are reaching the end of their service lives, and buyers should prioritize vessels that have been repowered or meticulously maintained with documented service logs.
Community & Resources
The Mirage 28 benefits from the support of a dedicated owner base. The Mirage Owners Club serves as a primary hub for technical data and restoration advice, specifically for those navigating the nuances of the Perry-designed Florida models. Additionally, the broader community of Robert Perry design enthusiasts often includes the Mirage 28 in discussions regarding the designer's "Golden Era" of performance cruisers, providing a wealth of shared knowledge on rig tuning and hull maintenance.
The Verdict
The Mirage 28 is a standout choice for the sailor who values design pedigree and structural integrity over the "condo-on-the-water" volume of modern coastal cruisers. It is a boat that rewards a skilled hand on the tiller while remaining forgiving enough for a novice.
Pros:
- Designed by Robert Perry, ensuring excellent balance and sea-kindliness.
- Stronger build quality than many mass-production competitors of the same era.
- Generous 6' 1" headroom and a well-appointed teak interior.
- Stiff performance in heavy air thanks to a high ballast-to-displacement ratio.
Cons:
- Limited production numbers make finding one on the used market difficult.
- Original engines (if not replaced) are nearing the end of their mechanical lifespan.
- Standard 1970s-era deck hardware may require upgrading for modern shorthanded sailing.
