The fast-displacement hull form is catching on with more builders. Horizon Yachts is the latest, introducing a dramatically different style of motoryacht to go with it. The new model is the Horizon FD85, and she’s set to debut at the Taiwan International Boat Show next March.
The hull configuration is the work of Cor D. Rover Design and Horizon’s own naval-architecture department. The FD85, powered by twin 1,136-hp Caterpillars, is expected to achieve good range efficiently whether at 10 knots or 16 knots. (Horizon has not revealed the anticipated range figures.) As you may recall, the concept behind fast-displacement yachts is to allow owners to experience the distances of “slow” cruise speed while at higher knots. Perhaps to set her apart even further, the Horizon FD85 shows off a new, decidedly modern exterior style, far different than that of any of the yard’s other yachts.
Another benefit of the Horizon FD85’s hull configuration, namely the vertical bow, is a reported 25-percent increase in living areas compared to similar-size yachts. Combine that with a 23’2” (7.1-meter) beam, and floor-to-ceiling ports in the saloon and dining area, and owners and guests should feel plenty comfortable onboard. The main-deck, full-beam master suite—unusual for this LOA—has the same size ports, too. Guests are treated to two twins and two VIP staterooms below decks.
Even with sunning, soaking, and alfresco dining areas spread out among her three decks, including on the raised foredeck, the Horizon FD85 does not forget about the crew’s needs. They have two entries to their quarters, one from the transom and one from the port side of the aft deck. Even with a raised pilothouse—fitted with heat-reflective glass—the FD85 has a helm on the flying bridge, because who doesn’t like taking the wheel out in the fresh air? The two helms also allow easy passage from one to the other due to a staircase.
Further providing easy passage: twin, solid stairways from the aft deck to the flying bridge. Many megayachts in this size range have a set of floating stairs. While those are certainly suitable, some buyers and guests prefer a more secure-feeling fixed stairway.
Like the rest of the builder’s lineup, the Horizon FD85 is a semi-custom model. Here are a few looks at how the builder is arranging hull number one.
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