Voyager 35 (Primrose) Information, Review, Specs

As one of three variations stemming from the same 35-foot hull design, the Voyager 35 stands alongside its sister ships, the center-cockpit Warrior 35 and the aft-cockpit Challenger 35, each tailored to different cruising preferences while sharing a common foundation of strength and reliability.

History and Design

The story of the Voyager 35 begins in 1972, marking a pivotal period for Trident Marine Ltd. Founded in 1968 by John Brown, Trident Marine quickly established itself as a builder of hardy, heavy-displacement, long-keel cruising yachts, a philosophy clearly reflected in the Voyager 35. Angus Primrose, a prominent naval architect known for his robust cruising designs, penned the lines for the Voyager 35 and its siblings., 13, 18] Primrose's design ethos, combined with Trident Marine's commitment to fiberglass construction, resulted in vessels prioritized for stability, comfort, and safety over outright speed, appealing directly to sailors planning extended offshore passages.

Trident Marine produced three distinct variations of the same 35-foot Angus Primrose-designed hull: the Warrior (center cockpit), Challenger (aft cockpit), and the Voyager (pilothouse). While specific production numbers are difficult to ascertain, the enduring presence of these models on the used market speaks to their success and the consistent build quality. The Voyager 35 itself is characterized by its deckhouse or pilothouse configuration, providing an internal steering position that was particularly appealing for challenging conditions or cooler climates., 12]

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Voyager 35 is a classic heavy-displacement cruiser, evident in its performance ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 13.11, the Voyager 35 is moderately canvassed, suggesting it prefers stronger breezes for optimal performance and may not excel in very light airs. Its high Ballast to Displacement Ratio (Ballast/Disp) of around 0.41 indicates excellent stiffness and stability, allowing it to stand up well to a blow and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway. This robust stability is a hallmark of its design for serious offshore voyaging.

Further emphasizing its cruising credentials, the Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of approximately 313.68 firmly places the Voyager 35 in the heavy displacement category. This heavy build contributes significantly to its renowned sea-kindliness and ability to track steadily through rough conditions, offering a more comfortable ride compared to lighter, more performance-oriented yachts. Owners often praise the Voyager 35 for its ability to hold its direction and experience less leeway, contributing to its reputation for predictable and secure handling. The full, fixed long keel further enhances directional stability and provides a secure platform at sea.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed specifications on interior headroom are not available in the structured data, the Voyager 35 is known for offering a spacious and well-arranged interior, designed with long cruises in mind. The most distinguishing feature of the Voyager 35 is its deckhouse or pilothouse, which provides enhanced visibility and a protected helm station, particularly beneficial in adverse weather or colder environments.

Typical interior layouts for the Voyager 35 often include a forward cabin with a V-berth, a head, a comfortable salon, and a galley. Some variations offered an aft cabin with a double berth, creating a two-cabin standard layout, while alternative three-cabin layouts also existed. The interiors generally feature practical finishes, emphasizing durability and functionality for extended periods at sea. While specific materials vary by individual boat and refits, the focus was on creating a robust and livable space congruent with its blue-water cruising purpose.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Trident Voyager 35 consistently praise its solid construction and sea-kindly motion. Many consider it an ideal choice for blue-water cruising, appreciating its ability to handle challenging conditions with confidence and comfort. The pilothouse design is frequently highlighted as a major advantage, offering excellent protection and an inside steering position that is valued for colder climates or extended passages. The long keel design is also appreciated for its stability and directional holding capabilities.

However, as with any classic yacht, owners occasionally note common maintenance considerations. Some owners have reported issues with steering and general wear and tear typical of a boat of its age. Despite these potential maintenance aspects, the strong sense of community among Trident owners and the enduring appeal of these robust cruisers ensure that the Voyager 35 remains a cherished vessel for those seeking a dependable and forgiving platform for their sailing adventures. Many owners share their experiences and solutions on forums, highlighting the strong support network for these classic British-built yachts.