More information is lost at the convergence point when there is distortion even though visibility is good. Without distortion and less light reflecting off the water visibility is better and there is less lose of information. I’ve observed many different optical effects caused by distortion but in no way is it the cause for any object to be refracted up from behind any type of curvature IMO. Also in my opinion refraction/reflection of light is why you can’t see distant objects on the horizon plus when you add in other causes and effects at the convergence point more information can be lost.
When observing a mirage on the road the mirror we see is a rised mirror that will continue to rise the further in the distance of the observer. Wave height also has an effect on distant objects.
These are all just my opinion.