Voyager 20 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Voyager 20 is deeply rooted in International Marine's enduring legacy of building seaworthy small sailboats. Its hull design is directly based on the renowned West Wight Potter 19, which itself evolved from the HMS 18, originally designed by Herb Stewart and built in the early 1970s. This lineage immediately places the Voyager 20 within a design philosophy focused on creating safe, stable, and practical "pocket cruisers" that are easily trailerable.

When International Marine introduced the Voyager 20 in 2013, their goal was to refine the proven Potter platform, incorporating enhancements for modern sailors. Key design improvements over its predecessors include a longer cockpit, a taller mast, and a notably improved interior layout. While retaining the characteristic fiberglass solid hull and deck construction synonymous with International Marine's commitment to durability, the Voyager 20's design embodies a practical and robust philosophy, intended to serve as an ideal platform for various sailing expeditions. Some models were even offered with a "Blue Water Lay-up," suggesting a focus on enhanced construction for more demanding conditions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

True to its design lineage, the International Voyager 20 is characterized by its inherent stability and forgiving nature, making it an enjoyable boat for a wide range of sailors. With a length overall of just over 20 feet and a waterline length of 17.5 feet, she maintains a compact footprint while offering respectable performance for her size. The boat features a centerboard keel, allowing for a minimum draft of 1.83 feet for easy launching and access to shallow anchorages, expanding to a maximum draft of 5.0 feet when the board is fully deployed for enhanced upwind performance and stability.

Anecdotal reports describe the Voyager 20 as a "zippy" and "obedient" sailboat that is "fun to sail" and responds well to helm input without fuss. This nimble handling, combined with her fractional sloop rig, suggests a boat that is easily controlled and responsive in various wind conditions, living up to International Marine's ethos of creating accessible and user-friendly craft., Builder Article]

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length, the International Voyager 20 is designed to maximize its interior volume for comfort during overnight stays and weekend cruising. Relying on an "improved interior layout" compared to the West Wight Potter 19, the cabin of the Voyager 20 aims to provide a more functional and comfortable space. While specific details of the layout can vary, typical arrangements for pocket cruisers of this size often include a V-berth forward, serving as a sleeping area, and perhaps a small settee or seating area.

The interior finish generally reflects the practical and robust construction philosophy of International Marine, with emphasis on durability. Some models are noted to feature traditional accents such as teak handrails and toe rails in the cockpit, enhancing both aesthetics and practicality. The improved layout suggests thoughtful consideration for storage and the overall flow within the limited cabin space, catering to the needs of a small cruising crew.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the International Voyager 20 generally speak highly of its qualities, often praising its robust build and the versatile sailing experience it offers. The boat's trailerable nature is a consistent highlight, allowing for exploration of diverse waterways and convenient storage. Its lineage from the well-regarded West Wight Potter series also instills confidence in its seaworthiness and stability, traits highly valued by those who venture into various conditions. The Voyager 20 is noted to be "rarely found on the market," which often indicates high owner satisfaction and a tendency for owners to retain their vessels for extended periods. The community surrounding International Marine boats, particularly the Potters, is known for being active and supportive, suggesting that Voyager 20 owners can also tap into a shared enthusiasm and knowledge base.