Voyager 38 (Trident) Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Trident Voyager 38 in 1982 marked a significant offering from Trident Marine Ltd., a builder renowned for its commitment to durable, heavy-displacement cruising yachts. The design of the Voyager 38 is attributed to the prolific British naval architect Angus Primrose, known for his robust and seaworthy cruising lines. During this era, Trident Marine’s manufacturing ethos, as detailed in their company history, prioritized stability, comfort, and safety over outright speed, appealing directly to sailors planning extended cruises or offshore passages. The Voyager 38 itself is a deck saloon variant of the aft-cockpit Trident Warrior 38, sharing the same proven hull designed to withstand demanding conditions. While specific design goals for the Voyager 38 emphasized the practicalities of a deck saloon, the overarching aim was to provide a solid, reliable platform for blue-water cruising, a testament to Trident Marine's enduring legacy. Details on significant variations during its production run are not widely documented, suggesting a consistent build quality throughout its availability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Trident Voyager 38 is a vessel designed for stability and comfort in a seaway rather than outright racing performance. With a displacement of 16,800 lbs and a waterline length of 31.33 feet, her Displacement to Length ratio calculates to approximately 244.29. This places her firmly in the category of a moderate to heavy cruiser, indicative of a yacht that prioritizes a comfortable motion and solid tracking, particularly in challenging conditions. Her ballast of 6,520 lbs provides a Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 38.8%, contributing to her inherent stability and ability to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind.

Anecdotal reports from owners generally praise the Voyager 38's handling characteristics, affirming her reputation as a capable blue-water boat. She is described as solid and seaworthy, not notably slow for a heavy-displacement, fin-keel cruiser. Owners have noted her ease of handling, even astern, with some benefiting from twin engine installations or bow thrusters that enhance maneuverability in tight quarters. The vessel's hull speed is calculated at 7.5 knots, a respectable pace for a yacht of her design and intended purpose. While specific sail area figures for calculating the Sail Area to Displacement ratio are not consistently reported in available databases, her ketch rig suggests a versatile sail plan that allows for effective power management across a range of wind conditions, balancing performance with ease of handling for offshore passages.

Accommodations and Layout

The Trident Voyager 38 is characterized by its spacious and practical interior, highlighted by its signature deck saloon configuration. This design choice provides panoramic views and a protected internal steering position, which is particularly advantageous for extended periods at sea or in cooler climates. The interior is typically finished with solid teak and teak-faced marine ply, giving the boat a classic, robust feel.

The layout generally includes a comfortable main saloon within the deckhouse, offering ample seating and dining space. Forward of the saloon, steps lead down to a second cabin, often featuring a sizeable double berth and its own en-suite head with additional stowage. While maximum headroom details are not widely specified, the deck saloon design generally contributes to a sense of openness and light below deck. The galley is typically well-appointed for offshore cruising, and there is usually sufficient storage throughout the boat for provisions and personal gear, catering to the needs of long-distance cruisers. Ventilation would typically be managed through opening ports and deck hatches, common on vessels of this era.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Trident Voyager 38 consistently praise her sturdy, quality construction and enduring appeal. Many vessels have remained in the same family ownership for decades, a strong testament to their reliability and the satisfaction they provide. The collective viewpoint emphasizes the Voyager 38's strong reputation as a dependable blue-water cruiser, appreciated for its robust build and seaworthy characteristics in various conditions. While specific common problems are not frequently cited, general maintenance considerations typical of a vessel of her age and robust construction would apply, such as ensuring all systems are up to modern standards and addressing any age-related wear on components. The solid construction and forgiving motion at sea remain key aspects cherished by the community of Trident owners.