Salish 17 Voyager Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The handling characteristics of the Salish 17 Voyager are defined by its dual-purpose DNA. Unlike traditional heavy keelboats, the Voyager utilizes a 200-pound water ballast system located beneath the floorboards. This allows the boat to maintain a light "trailering weight" and easy rowing inertia, while providing the necessary righting moment when the wind picks up. According to technical assessments found in Small Boats Magazine, the hull is a modified dory form with a fine entry and a wide, flat bottom, which provides excellent initial stability and allows the boat to plane under the right conditions.

Under sail, the Voyager typically employs a balanced lug rig or a Ketch configuration. The lug rig is particularly favored for its simplicity and the ability to reef quickly while underway. Because the masts are unstayed (lacking shrouds), they can be stepped or struck in minutes, a critical feature for sailors navigating under low bridges or preparing for a row-only stretch. The boat tracks well due to a high-aspect pivoting centerboard and a kick-up rudder, though like most dory-style hulls, it requires active weight management from the crew to optimize the trim when transitioning from rowing to sailing.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The "Voyager" designation specifically refers to the addition of an enclosed cuddy cabin on the standard 17-foot Salish hull. This cabin is designed for minimalist "camp-cruising" rather than luxury living. It provides a dry, protected space for gear storage and a compact sleeping area for one or two adults. The interior is characterized by its functional simplicity, utilizing molded fiberglass liners that are easy to wipe down after a salty expedition.

Sibling models include the standard Salish 17, which features an entirely open cockpit layout. The open version is preferred by those who prioritize maximum rowing space or who do not plan on overnighting aboard. In contrast, the Voyager’s cabin limits forward cockpit movement but offers a vital sanctuary during inclement weather, making it the preferred choice for events like the Race to Alaska (R2AK) or the Seventy48. Materials typically include high-grade marine plywood trim or optional teak packages, though the core construction remains hand-laid fiberglass.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Salish 17 Voyager has gained a cult following in the "Raid" and small-boat expedition community. It is frequently discussed in the context of the Race to Alaska (R2AK), where its ability to be rowed efficiently during calms and sailed hard in the heavy winds of the Inside Passage makes it a perennial contender in the small-craft class. It has been featured in several editorial spotlights within Small Boats Magazine, which praised its versatility as a "true crossover" between a rowing shell and a sailing dinghy.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a used Salish 17 Voyager should focus their inspection on the systems that facilitate its versatility. While the builder is known for high-quality construction, the following areas require scrutiny:

• Water Ballast Valves: The intake and drainage valves for the water ballast system can occasionally leak or become stiff if not maintained. Ensure the tank seals are watertight to prevent unwanted water in the bilge.
• Centerboard Gaskets: The trunk utilizes gaskets to prevent turbulence and spray. These can wear over time, especially if the boat is frequently beached in sandy environments.
• Mast Step Stress: Because the masts are unstayed, the mast steps and partners bear significant loads. Check for any hairline cracking in the fiberglass around the partner areas.
• Wood Trim Maintenance: Many Voyagers feature significant wood trim (gunwales and seats). If the boat has been stored outdoors without a cover, look for signs of rot or delamination in these areas.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support and community interaction is the manufacturer themselves, who maintain an active relationship with their owners. Additionally, the Traditional Small Craft Association (TSCA) provides a platform where Salish 17 owners share rigging modifications and trip reports. Technical parts and rigging upgrades are often sourced through Duckworks Boat Builders Supply, which maintains a close affinity with the "raid" sailing community that favors this model.

The Verdict

The Salish 17 Voyager is a specialized tool designed for the adventurer who refuses to choose between a rowboat and a sailboat. It excels in coastal exploration where versatility is more valuable than raw speed.

Pros:

• Versatility: Exceptional performance in both rowing and sailing modes.
• Towability: Lightweight enough to be towed by a small vehicle and easily launched from a ramp.
• Safety: The water ballast system provides a significant safety margin in high winds.
• Craftsmanship: High build quality with a classic aesthetic that holds its value well.

Cons:

• Cramped Cabin: The cuddy is strictly for sleeping or storage; there is no standing headroom.
• Specialized Use: Not ideal as a dedicated "racer" against modern dinghies or as a "stable platform" for large groups.
• Initial Cost: As a hand-built boutique boat, the price point is higher than mass-produced rotomolded or fiberglass dinghies.