Yacht Class n°44 (march-april-may 2026)

Horizon Yachts

With the FD80, Horizon Yachts expands its Fast Displacement series with a 24-metre model combining cutting-edge construction and optimised volumes. A yacht designed to combine stability and comfort over long distances.

Written by : Nicolas Massines – Photos : DR

The Taiwanese shipyard Horizon Yachts is developing a range of 23 boats divided into 8 series, including the FD for Fast Displacement. This includes the FD75, 90, 100, 110, 130, and now the FD80. The hull of this yacht was designed by Cor D. Rover and, like the rest of the series, features an innovative HPPB (High Performance Piercing Bow) design, which refers to an optimised piercing bow designed to improve performance and comfort on board. This bow allows the yacht to cut through waves gradually rather than over them, while also increasing the volume on board and therefore overall comfort. The FD80 was also built using 6D infusion techniques and SCRIMP technology developed by the US Navy to increase the strength and durability of the vessel.

A powerful silhouette designed for travel

Looking at her from bow to stern, one immediately gets a sense of power, and with good reason: imposing topsides, inverted wheelhouse panels, hull portholes covering almost the entire length of the boat… all reflecting a determined character ready to clock up the miles. A compact silhouette of almost 25 metres, but highly optimised on board. It starts with a large teak beach club leading via a wide electric portico to the technical and recreational area. Two flights of steps lead to the aft cockpit on the main deck. Shaded, it allows for al fresco dining thanks to an outdoor table that can accommodate 6 to 8 guests. A large three-panel sliding window retracts to allow a natural connection with the interior social space. The sofa is positioned on the port side, providing an unobstructed view of the starboard side and the wake. In front of it, three chairs facing an open kitchen welcome passengers wishing to dine. This is a very modern approach to life on board, where long hours spent at the table are gradually being replaced by lighter, more dynamic meals. The owner’s cabin, located in the bow, occupies the full width of the space and offers a very clear view of the surroundings. A curved headboard frames the central bed, which is surrounded by plenty of storage space. The sober beige and ecru tones enhance the refined atmosphere of the room. A staircase on the starboard side of the main deck leads to the lower deck where, forward of the master cabin, there are three cabins, two on the sides and one at the front with a modular layout. At the rear, the crew quarters for four people, are overlooking the beach club as well as the engine room.

Two steps forward into the gangways to monitor manoeuvres

Returning to the staircase, we now find ourselves on the upper deck at the closed wheelhouse. It also features light colours, three helm seats and a watch bench. The wheelhouse has two practical gangway doors for quick access to the gangways. A bay window opens onto the stern, revealing a recreational area with a bar on the port side facing a table and bench seat, as well as a Jacuzzi. Seating completes the space, allowing you to enjoy unobstructed views and extra privacy. The symmetrical gangways lead to the bow with a very useful feature for the crew: two slight projections are provided so that moorings, for example, can be checked at a glance. In front of the wheelhouse a U-shaped seat is facing a spacious solarium. The height of the stainless steel railings offers added safety when moving around. Another solarium completes this upper deck space. To reach the manoeuvring station at the bow, one has to descend a few steps via two symmetrical staircases, which leads to the propeller, the stopper and the bilge pumps. This is a secure, clearly marked area so as not to interfere with passengers’ privacy. With the FD80, Horizon Yachts has created a yacht that meets the highest standards of on-board living and top-of-the-range quality. Every space reflects a desire to enhance the sailing experience, whether at anchor or on cruises that promise to be very successful.