Sailing Performance & Handling
Unlike many production catamarans that rely on engine power to move in light air, the VOYAGE 500 is recognized for its legitimate sailing pedigree. With a high aspect rig and a generous sail-area-to-displacement ratio, the boat is remarkably responsive for a 50-foot multihull. The design features narrow hull entries and a relatively low bridge deck clearance; while the latter can lead to occasional "slapping" in heavy head seas, it significantly reduces windage, allowing the boat to point higher than many of its contemporaries.
Handling is characterized by its balance. The dual-engine configuration provides exceptional maneuverability in tight marinas, but under canvas, the boat truly shines on a reach. According to editorial assessments by Sail Magazine, the VOYAGE series is noted for its ability to maintain high average speeds over long passages, often outperforming monohulls of similar length. The steering is generally described as light and direct, thanks to the well-balanced spade rudders. The boat's performance is further enhanced by its fixed fins, which provide a good compromise between tracking and the shallow draft required for Caribbean cruising.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the VOYAGE 500 was revolutionary at its launch, focusing on a seamless transition between the cockpit and the saloon. The most common configuration is the four-cabin, four-head "charter" layout, where each hull houses two spacious en-suite cabins. However, "Owner" versions do exist, featuring a dedicated master suite in one hull. The saloon is characterized by panoramic views and a gourmet galley-up design that keeps the cook integrated into the social life of the boat.
Materials typically include high-grade cherry or maple veneers, providing a warm, nautical feel that avoids the "plastic" aesthetic of more mass-produced rivals. Ventilation is a highlight, with numerous opening ports and hatches designed to capture trade wind breezes—a necessity for its primary operating theater in the tropics. Sibling models built on similar design principles include the VOYAGE 440, which shares the same aesthetic language in a more compact frame, and the larger VOYAGE 580, which scales the 500’s successful formula for luxury crewed operations.
Popular Mentions & Media
The VOYAGE 500 gained significant cultural traction through its association with VOYAGE Charters, frequently cited in sailing media as the "gold standard" for charter vessels in the British Virgin Islands. It has appeared in numerous travel documentaries and sailing features focusing on the BVI, often portrayed as the quintessential Caribbean cruising vessel. The model's success directly led to the development of the VOYAGE 590, which won the Cruising World "Best Charter Boat" award, cementing the 500’s legacy as the progenitor of a modern award-winning lineage.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of a VOYAGE 500 should focus their due diligence on the following technical areas:
- Bridge Deck Pounding: Due to the low bridge deck clearance designed to minimize windage, the structure can experience significant slamming in short, choppy seas. Inspect the bridge deck for stress crazing or signs of structural repair.
- Bulkhead Attachment: In older models or those with high charter hours, the secondary bonding where the bulkheads meet the hulls should be inspected for any signs of movement or delamination.
- Engine Hours and Maintenance: Many 500s served in charter fleets. While VOYAGE Yachts is known for excellent maintenance programs, high engine hours are common. Verify that sail drives (usually Yanmar or Volvo) have had their seals and gaskets replaced according to manufacturer schedules.
- Balsa Core Moisture: Early hulls used balsa coring in the decks. Use a moisture meter around stanchion bases and windlass mounts to ensure no water ingress has compromised the core.
- Rigging Tension: The large fractional rig puts significant loads on the chainplates. Ensure a professional rigger inspects the standing rigging, especially if the boat has spent its life in high-UV, high-wind environments like the Caribbean.
Community & Resources
The primary hub for technical support and owner interaction is the VOYAGE Yachts official site, which maintains archives for their legacy models. Because many of these boats were managed under a single charter umbrella, the manufacturer often possesses more detailed maintenance histories for specific hull numbers than is typical for other production brands.
The Verdict
The VOYAGE 500 is a sophisticated multihull that appeals to sailors who refuse to sacrifice speed for living space. While its low profile may lead to some discomfort in heavy head seas, its offshore capability and build quality remain superior to many modern "volume-first" catamarans.
Pros:
- Superior sailing performance and pointing ability for a cruising cat.
- Robust South African build quality with high-end interior finishes.
- Excellent visibility and ventilation throughout the cabin.
- Proven resale value due to brand reputation and "charter-ready" durability.
Cons:
- Low bridge deck clearance can cause noise and slamming in certain sea states.
- The "galley-up" layout, while social, can limit counter space compared to newer designs.
- Many units on the market have high hours from extensive charter use.
