The Mirage 26, also known as the Perry Mirage 26, is a popular sailing boat designed by Robert Perry. It was first introduced in the late 1970s and produced until the early 1980s. The Mirage 26 is a small to mid-sized cruiser-racer sailboat that offers a good balance between performance and comfort.
Here are some key features and characteristics of the Mirage 26:
1. Design: The Mirage 26 features a classic design with a moderate displacement hull, a fin keel, and a spade rudder. It has a sleek and attractive appearance with a low cabin profile.
2. Construction: The boat is constructed using fiberglass, which provides durability and strength. The hull is solidly built, and the deck is reinforced with a balsa core to reduce weight.
3. Size and Accommodation: The Mirage 26 measures approximately 26 feet in length, with a beam of around 8.5 feet. It offers a comfortable cabin layout with sleeping accommodations for up to four people. The interior includes a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert into berths, a galley, and a head compartment.
4. Sailing Performance: The Mirage 26 is known for its good sailing performance, offering a combination of speed and stability. It has a moderate sail area and a well-balanced rig, making it easy to handle and maneuver. The boat is suitable for both cruising and club racing.
5. Keel Options: The Mirage 26 is available with different keel options, including a fixed fin keel or a swing keel. The swing keel version allows for shallow water exploration and easy trailering.
6. Rigging and Sail Plan: The boat features a masthead sloop rig with a single-spreader aluminum mast. The sail plan typically includes a mainsail, a genoa, and a jib. The Mirage 26 is designed to be easily sailed by a small crew.
7. Additional Features: Some models of the Mirage 26 may include additional features such as a self-tailing winch, a swim ladder, a cockpit table, and a bimini top for sun protection.
Overall, the Mirage 26 is a well-regarded sailboat that offers a good balance of performance, comfort, and affordability. It is suitable for sailors looking for a versatile and capable boat for coastal cruising or club racing.
