Perry Mirage 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Mirage 27 is characterized by its stiffness and predictable handling, a hallmark of Robert Perry’s mid-displacement designs. With a displacement of approximately 5,200 pounds and a ballast-to-displacement ratio hovering near 40%, the boat stands up well to its canvas in heavy air. Its underbody features a high-aspect fin keel and a balanced spade rudder, providing a nimble feel that mimics the racing-oriented Kirby designs also built by Mirage, yet with far more directional stability.

In his professional analysis, Robert Perry has often noted that the Mirage series was designed to be "wholesome," prioritizing a balanced helm over raw, twitchy speed. Under sail, the 27 tracks exceptionally well for a boat of its era. The sail area-to-displacement ratio is generous enough to keep the boat moving in light Great Lakes breezes, while the hull's relatively flat sections aft allow it to reach effectively in a blow. According to editorial reviews in Canadian Yachting, the boat’s performance is particularly noted for its ability to point high into the wind, a trait that allowed it to remain competitive in PHRF racing for decades.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Unlike its predecessor, the Mirage 26, which was more Spartan, the Mirage 27 was engineered for "weekend-plus" cruising. The interior layout is surprisingly expansive for a 27-footer, largely due to the 9-foot 3-inch beam and clever use of vertical space. The cabin features a traditional V-berth forward, followed by a surprisingly private, enclosed head—a feature often sacrificed in other 27-footers of the early 1980s.

The salon consists of a folding centerline table with settees on both sides, providing comfortable seating for four. The galley is located aft to starboard, typically equipped with a two-burner stove and a deep icebox. One of the most significant variations involves the companionway and engine access; while most hulls were fitted with the reliable Yanmar 1GM10 diesel, some earlier versions may be found with the Buhk or even an outboard in a well.

The Mirage 27 also saw a "sibling" evolution in the Mirage 275, designed later by Philippe Harlé. While the Perry-designed 27 focused on classic lines and balanced performance, the 275 shifted toward a more modern "French" aesthetic with an aft cabin and an integrated swim platform.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Mirage 27 with a checklist focused on its 1980s balsa-core construction. While the hulls are generally robust, specific age-related areas require scrutiny:

• Deck Delamination: Like many boats of this era, the Mirage 27 uses a balsa-core deck. Moisture ingress is common around the stanchion bases and the chainplates. A thorough percussion test (hammering) of the deck is essential to check for "dead" thuds indicating rot.
• Chainplate Leaks: The chainplates on the Mirage 27 pass through the deck to bulkheads. If the deck seals have not been maintained, water often migrates down the chainplate, rotting the plywood bulkheads. This is a structural concern that must be addressed to ensure rig tension.
• Rudder Bearings: The spade rudder is prone to developing play in the bearings over time. Buyers should check for excessive movement in the rudder post while the boat is hauled out.
• Compression Post: Inspect the base of the mast compression post. If water has leaked from the mast step, the wooden block or cabin sole at the base of the post can compress, leading to rig tuning issues.

Community & Resources

The Mirage 27 benefits from a dedicated following, particularly in the Pacific Northwest and the Great Lakes regions. The most prominent technical resource is the Mirage Owners Association, which maintains a technical wiki and archives of original brochures and manuals. While the builder is no longer in operation, the simplicity of the Perry design means that most hardware is off-the-shelf and easily serviced by modern riggers.

The Verdict

The Mirage 27 remains one of the most cost-effective entries into the world of Robert Perry designs, offering a sophisticated sailing experience that belies its modest size.

Pros:

• Design Pedigree: A true Robert Perry hull that balances speed with sea-kindliness.
• Interior Volume: Features an enclosed head and genuine sleeping capacity for four adults.
• Build Quality: Solid fiberglass hull and generally high-quality joinery compared to mass-market competitors of the same era.

Cons:

• Maintenance Intensive: Common issues with balsa-core decks and chainplate leaks require diligent inspection.
• Engine Access: The engine compartment is notably tight, making routine maintenance a challenge for less-flexible owners.
• Dated Aesthetics: The 1980s interior, while functional, lacks the light and ventilation found in more modern "Euro-style" cruisers.