Mirage 5.5 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

On the water, the Mirage 5.5 is defined by its responsiveness and its ability to excel in light-to-moderate air. Because it was developed by a team with a background in traditional wooden boat building and advanced composites, the hull is notably stiff for its size. The boat features a swing-keel configuration, which significantly lowers the center of gravity when deployed, providing surprising stability for an 18-foot vessel. This retractable keel also allows for a draft shallow enough to facilitate beaching or easy trailering, a key selling point for inland and coastal explorers alike.

The sail-area-to-displacement ratio of the 5.5 leans toward the "sporty" end of the spectrum. According to historical accounts from the builder, the boat was designed to be "plane-able" under the right conditions, a rarity for pocket cruisers of its vintage. Owners often report that the boat tracks well due to a well-balanced helm, though the light weight means it can be sensitive to crew placement. In heavy air, the boat requires early reefing to maintain composure, but its nimble nature makes it a favorite for "round-the-buoys" club racing and quick afternoon sprints.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Mirage 5.5 is a testament to the "micro-cruiser" philosophy, where every square inch is utilized for utility. The cabin is essentially a "sitting-headroom" environment, featuring a V-berth forward that can technically accommodate two adults for overnighting, though it is more realistically suited for a single sailor or for stowage during day trips. The design reflects the builder’s transition from wooden craftsmanship to fiberglass; while the materials are durable, the finishes often include teak accents that provide a warmer feel than many of its purely utilitarian contemporaries.

There are few variations of the 5.5 itself, as it was built primarily to a standardized specification to maintain its competitive edge in production racing. However, it is often discussed alongside its larger sibling, the Mirage 236. The 236 essentially took the design language of the 5.5—specifically the performance-oriented hull and efficient rigging—and scaled it up to include more robust living quarters and an enclosed head. For buyers who find the 5.5 too cramped for weekend trips, the 236 remains the most logical stepping stone within the Mirage lineage.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective owners of a vintage Mirage 5.5 should focus their inspections on the mechanical and structural components unique to its era and design.

• Swing Keel Pivot and Cable: The pivot bolt and lifting cable are the most critical points of failure. Corrosion in the bolt can lead to "clunking" while underway, while a frayed cable can result in the keel dropping or becoming jammed in the trunk.
• Keel Trunk Leaks: Inspect the fiberglass trunk housing the keel for stress cracks. Over-tightening or groundings can cause hairline fractures that lead to persistent leaks near the cabin sole.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats from the 1970s and 80s, the 5.5 used a cored deck. Use a phenolic hammer to check for "dead" thuds, which indicate delamination or water intrusion around the chainplates and stanchion bases.
• Rudder Hardware: The transom-mounted rudder hardware is subject to significant stress. Check for play in the pintles and gudgeons, as well as any cracking in the fiberglass around the transom mounting points.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical information and historical context is the "Mirage Owners Club." While the manufacturer has shifted focus toward Great Harbour Trawlers and custom sportfishers, the Mirage Manufacturing team remains a resource for historical inquiries, reflecting the company’s long-standing family leadership under Ken Fickett. Owners often find shared technical knowledge through broader pocket-cruiser forums, though the specific Gainesville-built Mirage community is most active in the Florida region where the boats were originally campaigned.

The Verdict

The Mirage 5.5 is an excellent choice for the sailor who prioritizes performance and ease of transport over interior volume. It remains a testament to the era of "built like a tank" Florida construction, offering a level of durability rarely seen in modern 18-footers.

Pros:

• Exceptional light-air performance and responsiveness.
• Trailerable design allows for easy storage and diverse cruising grounds.
• High-quality composite construction from a reputable American builder.

Cons:

• Extremely limited interior space, primarily suited for gear or very short stays.
• Requires active management and early reefing in high-wind conditions.
• Swing-keel maintenance can be labor-intensive on older hulls.