Mirage 35 — Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Mirage 35 is characterized by the balanced, predictable handling that defined Robert Perry’s designs of that decade. With a Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 232, the vessel sits firmly in the category of a moderate-weight cruiser, offering enough momentum to power through Great Lakes chop while remaining responsive enough for club racing. In a Technical Review by Michael McGoldrick, the boat is noted for its identical waterline and sail area to the 33, but with slightly more weight—roughly 10,000 lbs—attributed to the extended transom and more substantial interior finishes.

Owners and testers often describe the helm as light and the tracking as exceptionally straight, a result of the well-proportioned fin keel and spade rudder. The Sail Area/Displacement ratio of 16.1 suggests a boat that is "spirited" but requires early reefing; anecdotal evidence from regional racing suggests the boat becomes tender once winds exceed 18 to 20 knots. When properly depowered, however, the Mirage 35 maintains a civilized motion, making it a favorite for couples cruising the challenging waters of the Bay of Fundy or the St. Lawrence Seaway.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Mirage 35 was marketed as a more refined version of its predecessor, the 33. It features a remarkably generous 6' 5" of headroom, a figure that remains impressive even by modern standards for a 35-foot vessel. The layout is a classic configuration of the era: a V-berth forward, a central salon with a U-shaped settee to port and a straight settee to starboard, and a functional U-shaped galley.

The 35 distinguished itself from the 33 primarily through its joinery and material choices, which were considered an "upgrade" intended for the higher-end cruising market. While it lacks the dedicated aft cabin found in later Philippe Harlé designs like the Mirage 29, it offers a spacious quarter berth and a navigation station that remains usable even at sea. Variations are rare, as the production run focused on a standardized layout, though some units were fitted with different engine configurations, most commonly the Volvo Penta diesel.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Mirage 35 with a technical eye toward three specific areas identified by long-term owners and surveyors:

1. Forestay Attachment: There have been documented reports of failures at the bow plate where the forestay connects. This is a critical structural point; inspectors should look for hairline fractures in the stainless steel or signs of past reinforcement.
2. Factory Wiring: As with many production boats of the 1980s, the original DC wiring often lacks the organization and capacity required for modern electronics. Refitted boats with updated panels are significantly more valuable.
3. Portlight Gaskets: The original aluminum-framed windows utilized a specific grey plastic gasket known for shrinking over time. This leads to persistent leaks that can damage the interior teak. Many owners have since replaced these with acrylic lenses bedded in modern sealants like Dow 795.
4. Deck Core Integrity: Check for delamination around the chainplates and stanchion bases. While Mirage hulls are generally robust, the balsa-cored decks are susceptible to water ingress if hardware hasn't been re-bedded every decade.

Community & Resources

The Mirage 35 maintains a dedicated following within the Canadian sailing community. While the original manufacturer ceased operations in 1989, technical support is frequently found through the Mirage Owners Association, which, although primarily focused on the smaller racing models like the Kirby 25, maintains a technical repository for the Perry-designed cruisers.

The Verdict

The Mirage 35 remains one of the most capable and aesthetically pleasing cruisers produced in Canada during the 1980s. It offers a rare blend of Robert Perry’s design pedigree and high-volume interior comfort.

Pros:

• Exceptional 6' 5" headroom is ideal for taller sailors.
• Robert Perry design ensures excellent tracking and a light helm.
• The reverse transom provides a modernized look and better boarding access than the 33.
• Robust construction and lead ballast (on most hulls) provide a stiff, stable ride.

Cons:

• Known weakness at the forestay chainplate requires careful inspection.
• Tender in heavy air; requires an early first reef (approx. 18 knots).
• Original electrical systems and plumbing are likely due for a total overhaul.