Cape Dory 28, Bluewater Sailboat, Singlehanded Sailing
I'm not done sailing, Just getting a different boat. I want a smaller boat. MORC design, preferably a Ranger 23 or similar, one trailer.
After three years and nearly 10,000NM I am putting MIRAGE up for sale. She is a Cape Dory 28, a boat known for its superb sea-keeping abilities and superior build quality. Cape Dory only used the best when they built these boats and it comes with all bronze sea cocks, portlights, and fittings. This means all metal fittings on the boat will last essentially forever with proper care.
I have sailed Mirage from Miami to Charleston to Key West to Abacos Bahamas to Georgetown Bahamas to Guatemala to Honduras to Cayman Islands to Key West to South Carolina. Roughly 10,000NM in total over the last 3 years. Our longest nonstop journey was 1,400 NM over a two-week sail from Georgetown to Guatemala.
She is a true bluewater boat set up for bluewater and single handing. I have upgraded the sail plan to handle gale force winds with a triple reef point in the main, and a storm jib can be flown from a Solent stay. Exterior oversized SS chainplates were added in 2023 to accept standing rigging if upsizing is desired, and the rig has been serviced and inspected often. Brand new Jabsco Toilet. Etc.
I was planning an Atlantic crossing in June of this year, but an exciting opportunity on the West Coast this summer changed my plans, so I am putting my Beloved MIRAGE up for sale. I am asking $9,800 but I am considering any offers, so it doesn’t hurt to throw me an offer and let me know what you might have planned. I have spent considerable money and effort getting Mirage into this condition, so it would be nice if someone who desires serious sailing will take over. There won't be a cheaper way into a boat this ready to go.
Mirage is currently powered by a Honda 8HP Saildrive longshaft outboard motor. This is perfect for the boat and will not cavitate even in heavy weather. The hard dodger is easily removed if you do not want it. It is useful for heavy weather. This is a very safe boat, I’m hoping to find someone who will take care of her and love her as I have. I wouldn’t sell her if I could take her with me to the West Coast.
Important Gear:
AIS Capable VHF Radio
Raymarine Smartpilot Tiller Pilot (Very Expensive and Nice Tiller Autopilot)
Yankee Jib
Storm Jib
NOTE: I am willing to accept (trades + cash), condition depending, 22-24 ft sailboats designed for MORC, specifically a ranger 23.
NOTE 2: I am willing to go down on price by removing some gear from MIRAGE such as the autopilot, since I will be purchasing another sailboat in the near future. Shoot me an offer! I might just say yes.
NOTE 3: I may be willing to deliver MIRAGE if travel expenses are paid for my return to South Carolina.
MIRAGE is currently in Lake Marion, SC in a Freshwater slip. It can stay in slip if needed.