Mirage 32 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

True to Robert Perry’s design philosophy, the Mirage 32 features a moderate-displacement hull characterized by a fine entry and a relatively flat run aft, which helps the boat maintain stability when pressed. The vessel’s sailing characteristics are defined by a balanced helm and a predictable motion in a seaway, a direct result of the high-aspect fin keel and spade rudder configuration. Owners often report that the boat "punches above its weight" in light to moderate air, likely due to a favorable Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio that stays in the performance-cruiser sweet spot.

Under sail, the 32 tracks well and exhibits high sea-kindliness, making it a preferred choice for the choppy waters of the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River where many were built and sold. Unlike the more aggressive Kirby-designed siblings like the Kirby 25, the Mirage 32 does not require a large, active crew to manage sail trim; it is easily handled by a couple, particularly when equipped with a roller-furling headsail and lines led aft to the cockpit. The boat’s tracking is aided by the Perry-designed underwater profile, which balances the center of lateral resistance against the sail plan to minimize weather helm even as the wind freshens.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Mirage 32 was designed to compete with the "French Invasion" of the late 1980s, which prioritized light, airy cabins and innovative layouts. The 32 typically features a traditional cruising layout but with the added benefit of Robert Perry’s "space-efficient" ergonomics. The main salon offers generous headroom for a vessel of this length, usually featuring a U-shaped or L-shaped settee and a foldable dinette table.

A key distinction of the 32 over earlier Mirage models is the refinement of the aft cabin and galley area. By utilizing the extra length provided by the modified transom, the 32 offers a more comfortable quarter berth or aft cabin arrangement, often preferred by families. High-quality teak joinery was standard, though later models incorporated more fiberglass liners and lighter materials to reflect the aesthetic shifts of the late 80s. The Mirage 32’s sibling, the Mirage 30, shared the same basic hull mold, but the 32 is generally viewed as the more "grown-up" version with better-resolved storage solutions and a more sophisticated electrical panel.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Mirage 32 should focus their inspections on the common vulnerabilities of 1980s production fiberglass yachts. While the construction is generally robust, specific areas require technical scrutiny:

• Deck Core Saturation: Like many boats of this era, Mirage used balsa-cored decks. Moisture ingress around stanchion bases, chainplates, and the mast step is a common "gotcha." Buyers should look for soft spots or use a moisture meter around all deck hardware.
• Chainplate and Bulkhead Integrity: Leaking chainplates can lead to rot in the main bulkheads. Because the bulkheads are structural components that provide rig tension, any signs of water staining or wood rot at the chainplate interface are serious concerns.
• Rudder Delamination: The spade rudder is a hollow fiberglass shell over a foam core. Over time, water can seep into the core, leading to internal corrosion of the rudder post or delamination of the skins.
• Engine Maintenance: Most Mirage 32s were powered by Yanmar or Volvo Penta diesels. While reliable, the raw-water cooling systems on original engines may be reaching the end of their service life, and the sail-drive seals (if so equipped) require periodic replacement.

Community & Resources

The Mirage community remains active, particularly in Quebec and Ontario. The most prominent resource for technical support and owner archives is the Mirage Sailing Association, which maintains historical data on the various Robert Perry and Philippe Harlé designs. While the builder is no longer in operation, the simplicity of the Perry designs ensures that parts for the rig and underwater gear remain accessible through standard marine suppliers.

The Verdict

The Mirage 32 is a standout choice for the sailor who wants a Robert Perry design on a modest budget, offering a near-perfect blend of Canadian build quality and American design pedigree.

Pros:

• Excellent performance-to-comfort ratio, suitable for both club racing and coastal cruising.
• The Robert Perry pedigree ensures high resale value and a well-balanced helm.
• Roomy interior for a 32-footer, benefiting from the late-80s focus on "volume-up" design.

Cons:

• Vulnerable to deck core saturation if hardware hasn't been re-bedded.
• The spade rudder requires careful inspection for moisture and delamination.
• Market availability is largely concentrated in the Northeast and Great Lakes regions.