The high-volume Horizon FD Series continues attracting buyers, so the shipyard continues building some models on spec. Hull number 14 in the Horizon FD80 yacht series recently wrapped up construction specifically for sale in the American market. A combination of tried-and-true and more contemporary features should make the megayacht stand out.

For instance, Horizon offers the series in a Skyline (a.k.a. enclosed-bridge) or Split Use Skylounge configuration. This particular hull has the latter (above), meaning entertaining flows from inside to outside. It’s an open-plan layout, too, from the twin helm chairs to the sliding glass doors. This suits owenrs and guests who like to chat with the captain, plus owners who like handling driving duties. Either way, a convenient hi-lo table accompanies the seating area, letting you and your guests go from cocktails at the backlit stone bar directly opposite straight to dinner without leaving the room. Black leather and satin-finished wenge set a mood. If you keep the doors open, guests can move easily from the indoor bar to an outdoor one by the hot tub. A grill is out on deck, too.

The flexibility of the bridge deck is indicative of the overall design flexibility, a hallmark of the Horizon FD80 yacht. You’ll find, for example, a convertible table on the main aft deck. Dining (or cocktails) can further take place on the foredeck, where a U-shape area nestles against the wheelhouse. Since it’s open air, Horizon can supply sun awnings to create some shade, too. Speaking of shade, the beach club is a cozy nook just off the swim platform, with direct crew access from the crew’s quarters for four. Because of this, folding doors and retractable screens add an element of privacy when the beach club is in use.

Among the areas buyers of the series really like is the open-plan main deck. Here, the flexibility really comes into play. A convertible breakfast/dining table faces a full-height window to starboard (top of page). Considering few cruisers indulge in formal dinners inside, the adaptable nature is practical, a real space saver. Three to six guests can enjoy coffee together here, or simply take in the view underway. Yet another three-seater arrangement accompanies the galley island/bar counter. The galley can be a show kitchen or, when entertaining, a little more closed off, with electric roller blinds (above). Handily for large-scale entertaining, Horizon created built-in glassware stowage in the saloon. A wine chiller is within the galley as well. Regardless of the moment, the Horizon FD80 yacht décor lends a sophisticated air. Once again, wenge appears, with stainless steel trim, stone, and grey-white lacquers.

With a main-deck master and three guest staterooms below, the layout of this 14th Horizon FD80 yacht may sound pretty routine. But, special décor touches and another transformable arrangement make it notable. Firstly, the treads of the stairs leading throughout the yacht appear to float, attached to tempered clear glass on the main deck. They keep the feel in the guest foyer below open and airy, too. Secondly, the forward VIP stateroom can switch from a double to twins in a V configuration when needed.

Finishing 14 hulls in less than five years (notably, the first FD80 sold to Americans in 2020) proves that Horizon hits the right marks with this series. A few more hulls are in the pipeline as well, suggesting the model will remain a strong offering for years to come.
Horizon Yachts horizonyacht.com

More About the Horizon FD80 Yacht
LOA: 80’7” (24.56 meters)
Beam: 22’6” (6.87 meters)
Draft: 5’7” (1.7 meters)
Guests: 8 in 4 staterooms
Engines: 2/1,600-hp Caterpillars
Range: not specified
Builder: Horizon Yachts
Stylist: Cor D. Rover Design
Naval Architect: Horizon Yachts
Interior Designer: Horizon Yachts
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