Top Star Trek: Voyager Episode Selection Across 7 Seasons

The best episodes from each of Star Trek: Voyager's seven seasons showcase the challenges faced by Captain Kathryn Janeway and the USS Voyager crew as the sole Starfleet vessel in the Delta Quadrant. Right from the start, Voyager's story emphasized compassion and connection, as the depleted Starfleet crew had to team up with Commander Chakotay's Maquis crew to survive in a distant part of the galaxy. They encountered new Star Trek aliens like Talaxian chef Neelix and psychic Ocampa Kes, leading to unique moral dilemmas each week.

In season 4 of Star Trek: Voyager, the introduction of ex-Borg drone Seven of Nine breathed new life into the series. Seven brought not just sex appeal but also a complex, intelligent character who challenged Captain Janeway's Federation principles. She, along with Voyager's holographic Doctor, became breakout stars, enhancing the show, especially when portrayed as an unexpected comedic duo. The series grew stronger with story arcs involving the Borg, the formidable Hirogen, and Voyager's communication with the Alpha Quadrant. To truly appreciate the best of Star Trek: Voyager, it is essential to start from the very beginning.

Star Trek: Voyager Season 1's Best - Episode 7, "Eye of the Needle"

"Just our luck, we raise one ship from the Alpha Quadrant and it has to be Romulan."

Despite its shaky start, Star Trek: Voyager season 1 manages to impress with a standout episode that gives the USS Voyager crew an early opportunity to make contact with the Alpha Quadrant. Ensign Harry Kim makes a significant discovery of a new wormhole, albeit a small one measuring only 30 centimeters wide. While it is large enough to send a communication signal through, the real question is whether the Romulan scientist Telek R'Mor is willing to pass along Voyager's message to Starfleet. The delicate balance of trust formed out of Captain Janeway's desperation and R'Mor's curiosity embodies the essence of classic Star Trek storytelling, and a surprising twist at the end solidifies "Eye of the Needle" as the standout episode of Voyager season 1.

In addition, a special mention goes to Star Trek: Voyager season 1, episode 15, "Jetrel."

Star Trek: Voyager Season 2's Best - Episode 24, "Tuvix"

"I don't want to die."

In "Tuvix", an episode of Star Trek: Voyager, a unique dilemma arises that continues to spark debates even after almost 30 years. When Neelix and Lt. Tuvok are accidentally merged into a new being called Tuvix due to transporter mishaps involving orchid samples, the crew of Voyager grows fond of him during the following weeks. The situation becomes even more complicated when the Doctor finds a way to separate Tuvix back into Neelix and Tuvok, but at the cost of Tuvix's existence.

Captain Janeway's decision regarding Tuvix is a tough one to witness, as there is no clear right or easy answer no matter how you look at it. The emotional turmoil is heightened as Tuvix desperately pleads for his life to be spared, adding to the complexity of the situation.

A notable mention goes to another compelling episode of Star Trek: Voyager, season 2, episode 21, titled "Deadlock".

Star Trek: Voyager Season 3's Best - Episode 26, "Scorpion, Part 1"

In the first episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks season 4, titled "Twovix," the Tuvix dilemma is cleverly parodied with numerous references to Voyager. This episode showcases how the original "Tuvix" storyline continues to resonate and remain relevant over time.

Janeway's Dilemma

Faced with a tough decision in the Delta Quadrant, Captain Janeway must choose between settling down or risking Borg space. Despite Commander Chakotay's doubts about the Borg's trustworthiness, Janeway decides to form an alliance with them. This risky move, akin to the scorpion's nature, shows Janeway's unwavering determination to bring her crew home. The tense situation unfolds in the beginning of Star Trek: Voyager season 4, setting the stage for Janeway's rivalry with the Borg and the introduction of Seven of Nine.

Honorable Mention: Star Trek: Voyager season 3, episode 22, "Real Life"

Star Trek: Voyager Season 4's Best - Episode 8 & 9 "Year of Hell"

"He's trying to erase us from history."

Originally planned as the main storyline for season 4 of Star Trek: Voyager, "Year of Hell" follows the USS Voyager as they face off against Annorax of the Krenim Imperium. Annorax is a dictator who is determined to revive the former glory of his empire through temporal warfare. While the Krenim possess advanced technologies crucial to the sci-fi plot, the real strength of this narrative lies in its exploration of character psychology. Throughout the year-long battle, both Annorax and Captain Janeway demonstrate unwavering determination, leading to a suspenseful conclusion that reveals who is willing to take the greatest risk to emerge victorious.

Honorable Mention:Star Trek: Voyager season 4, episode 23, "Living Witness"

Star Trek: Voyager Season 5's Best - Episode 11, "Latent Image"

"The Doctor's Evolution in 'Latent Image'"

A surprising discovery uncovers that someone has tampered with the Doctor's program, leading him on a quest to uncover the truth behind the altered memories. This unsettling journey delves into complex themes of medical ethics, personal autonomy, and the Doctor's identity as a sentient hologram with a developing program. The episode "Latent Image" marks a pivotal moment in the Doctor's character development, as he grapples with a newfound understanding of himself and his capacity for compassion. The impact of this revelation extends beyond the Doctor, influencing how Captain Janeway, Seven of Nine, and the rest of the Voyager crew view him going forward.

Honorable Mention: Star Trek: Voyager season 5, episode 10 "Counterpoint"

Star Trek: Voyager Season 6's Best - Episode 12 "Blink of an Eye"

"The Weird Planet Where Time Moved Very Fast and So Did the People Who Lived There"

The USS Voyager finds itself trapped in the orbit of a mysterious planet where time passes much quicker compared to the rest of the galaxy. This unique situation allows the crew to witness the rapid rise and fall of civilizations on the planet, influenced by Voyager's presence for thousands of years, while only a few weeks pass for the crew. "Blink of an Eye" offers a fresh perspective on the Prime Directive concept, focusing on the impact of the "Skyship" on the local inhabitants. It also highlights how science fiction, particularly Star Trek, influences our own culture by inspiring us to explore beyond our limits and aim for the stars.

Honorable Mention: Star Trek: Voyager season 6, episode 4, "Tinker Tenor Doctor Spy"

Star Trek: Voyager Season 7's Best - Episode 25 & 26 "Endgame"

"Heading Home: Star Trek: Voyager Season 7 Finale"

"Endgame," the season 7 finale of Star Trek: Voyager, stands out as the best episode of the season. The episode begins with the USS Voyager finally making its way back to Earth after facing numerous challenges and losses throughout its journey. Admiral Janeway comes up with a new plan to prevent these losses from happening and ensures the crew's safe return home. Despite having to bend a few rules along the way, Admiral Janeway confronts the Borg threat head-on and brings the series to a satisfying conclusion. Kate Mulgrew's stellar performances as both Captain and Admiral Janeway elevate the finale to a memorable and emotional conclusion.

Honorable Mention: Star Trek: Voyager season 7, episode 7, "Body and Soul"

Star Trek: Voyager may not have received as much praise as its predecessors, Star Trek: The Next Generation and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, but the journey of the USS Voyager back home to the Alpha Quadrant had some memorable moments. Over seven years, various episodes came together, touching on themes of love, loss, grief, and family. The crew of Voyager formed strong bonds and supported each other, bringing out the best in themselves despite their pasts and uncertainties. Ultimately, it was the characters that made Star Trek: Voyager a beloved show for its fans, like a comforting home we had been searching for.

Star Trek: Voyager is streaming on Paramount+.

Editor's P/S:

The article provides a comprehensive overview of the best episodes from each season of Star Trek: Voyager, highlighting the challenges faced by the crew and the unique dilemmas they encountered. The writer effectively captures the essence of the show, emphasizing its themes of compassion, connection, and the complexities of human and alien relationships. The detailed summaries of each episode showcase the depth and variety of storytelling that made Voyager a beloved series.

Overall, the article serves as a valuable guide for fans who wish to revisit the best moments of Voyager or for newcomers who are looking to explore the show. The writer's passion for the series is evident in their thoughtful analysis and enthusiasm for the characters and storylines. The article also acknowledges the importance of the show's cultural impact, particularly its exploration of scientific and ethical themes that continue to resonate today.