Voyage 500 Information, Review, Specs

The Voyage 500 was in production from 2006 to 2009, emerging from a builder with a strong ethos rooted in personal cruising experiences. Voyage Yachts, founded by Robin and Jo-Ann Downing, aimed to create offshore-capable multihulls that balanced exceptional performance with comfortable living spaces. The design philosophy underpinning vessels like the Voyage 500 emphasizes a low-maintenance approach, a direct influence of Voyage Yachts' extensive experience running a charter fleet in the British Virgin Islands. This symbiotic relationship between building and charter operations ensures continuous feedback, leading to design refinements that prioritize durability and ease of handling in real-world conditions. While specific Mark versions are not widely documented, the Voyage 500 was available in different interior configurations, including spacious owner's versions, catering to both private buyers and the robust charter trade for which many units were initially built.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a performance-oriented cruising catamaran, the Voyage 500 is characterized by its ability to sail upright, offering a stable and comfortable motion. Its design exhibits a relatively high sail area to displacement ratio for a multihull, suggesting excellent light-air performance and the capacity to move efficiently in varied conditions. The low displacement to length ratio further indicates a light and nimble vessel for its size, aligning with Voyage Yachts' commitment to producing catamarans that are both fast and comfortable. Unlike monohulls, catamarans like the Voyage 500 rely on their broad beam and twin hulls for stability rather than internal ballast. This inherent stability, combined with a robust build, contributes to its reputation as a capable offshore cruiser. 2, 6, Builder Article Anecdotal reports suggest that the Voyage 500 generally offers a responsive and well-behaved sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

The Voyage 500 is widely praised for its spacious and open-plan interior, making it well-suited for large families or charter groups. Typical layouts often feature five cabins, providing comfortable accommodation with queen-size bunks in both forward and aft cabins. The well-equipped galley is a central feature, often designed with a sociable island configuration that includes bar stools, and it comes complete with essential amenities such as a sink, stove, and toaster. The helm station, located in the aft cockpit, is conveniently situated adjacent to the galley and interior, fostering an integrated indoor-outdoor living experience. Owners' versions are particularly noted for their ample storage and re-upholstered salons, contributing to a luxurious and comfortable onboard environment. Additional features like foredeck crew cabins, cabin fans, and air conditioning enhance the liveability and appeal of the Voyage 500.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently regard the Voyage 500 as one of the most reliable and comfortable cruising platforms available. Its solid construction, a hallmark of Voyage Yachts' "charter-ready" build, is consistently praised for its durability and seaworthiness. Vessels are often found to be incredibly well-kept, reflecting the care taken by their owners and their inherent build quality. While some charter-commissioned boats might have left the factory with more basic sail packages that could show wear over time, the fundamental design and construction of the Voyage 500 are held in high esteem for their robustness and suitability for long-distance cruising.