Mirage 26 vs. Catalina 27-Tall Rig

[Joe Rys]

I am shopping for a sailboat. I am down to a '78 26ft mirage (great shape) and a '76 27' catalina (good shape). I will probably cruise first and race second (close 2nd). I think the catalina is probably the better choice. Any input or contrasts between the 2 boats would be appreciated. Thank you.

 

[John]

You cant go wrong

Well, The Catalina, hands down. It has absolute support and is one of the best for sailing Ol Lake Erie. Check on upgrades. If not yet done, it may give u a lever for pricing. Take a look at the support sites, not ot mentio the manufactuers support. Get the 27 with an inboard.

 

[Jeff Martin]

Mirage

I just moved up from a Mirage 27 (same as the 26 but with a reverse transom). After nine years sailing on the Mirage -- I can tell you it was a real sailors boat, it handled and sailed great. It was built like a tank, solid fiberglass hull (same as Catalina). MOst of the Mirage 26's came with either an outboard or a OMC Saildrive -- beware the saildrive as they are difficult to find parts for lower drive unit. We moved up to a Catalina 30 this year and have enjoyed it as well. In my opinion the Catalina 30 is a cruiser/racer and the Mirage is a racer/cruiser....Either boat will be fine ...take the one is the best shape for the money.