The stunning new V68 is the third generation model in Horizon’s V Series, and is designed to be an owner operator boat without a crew, something that is entirely suited to Kiwi and Aussie boating.
In our recent Pacific PassageMaker Annual we reviewed the very different Horizon FD87. A new addition to Horizon’s Fast Displacement (FD) Series, the FD87 was something unique and different from the Taiwan based Horizon Yachts. While the Horizon V68 is somewhat more traditional, it does feature some very new aspects, such as the plumb bow and an optional beach club in the stern.
The V68 has flawless exterior contours and contemporary styling that offers the convenience and versatility in its mini-superyacht dimensions. It also comes with an extensive list of luxurious appointments and onboard amenities.
Designed as an entry-level motor yacht with superyacht attitude, the new Horizon V68 is the company’s latest model focused on satisfying a specific cruising lifestyle: owner operation. The V68 was a concept nearly nine years in the making, and ultimately was created in collaboration with world-renowned designer Jonathan Quinn Barnett (JQB) in response to one question: “What is the largest vessel two people, or perhaps a small family, could use to comfortably and safely discover the world of yachting?”
With a portfolio of successful international custom superyachts ranging from 33m to 126m, JQB Ltd designs in what he calls a ‘wholistic’ manner. “The outside and inside must feel as if they are one and of the same mind”, says JQB.
The Horizon/JQB team combined input from international yacht brokers and their clients’ specifications to tailor the V68 to three specific objectives: safety, solid architecture, and customisation to an owner’s lifestyle normally found with superyacht projects. Retaining Horizon’s signature quality inside and out, as well as taking advantage of the trickle-down effect from Horizon’s superyacht projects into the smaller sized yachts, the new V68 motor yacht allows an owner to take long-term cruising in under 25m.
Immediately striking in appearance thanks to a plumb bow design – and only the second Horizon model apart from the FD series to feature such – the V68 has been planned throughout with large open spaces, wide side decks and a voluminous interior that takes advantage of large windows in the main deck and cabins. Excellent visibility and sizable stainless steel handrails underscore the attention given to safety.
Kiwi Influence
The adoption of the plumb bow was the critical element that formed the basis of the V68’s design, notes Christian Stimson of Stimson Yachts of New Zealand who is responsible for the hull design and naval architecture. The vertical bow allowed for a longer waterline, which in turn affords a generous beam and reduces drag at lower, displacement speeds.
The V68 has a speed of 25 knots max with a cruise around 1-12 knots and a range of around 1450nm. Power is a pair of Caterpillar C18 ACERTs of 1136bhp each.
The larger hull beam not only makes for greater stability and increased interior spaces but also allowed the team to increase headroom without affecting the yacht’s low profile. Horizon, Stimson and JQB also worked hard to ensure the V68’s hull features would combine seamlessly with the interior spaces to provide a superior cruising experience. The V68 is extremely fuel miserly at low speeds and produces a minimal wash, helped by the chine aft not being parallel, but tucking in for maximum efficiency.
The Horizon V68 features large open spaces, wide side decks and a voluminous interior that takes advantage of the nearly 6m beam.
This “solid architecture” is a testament to what JQB calls “honesty in design,” meaning that there are no visual tricks employed to make the boat appear larger than it is. Instead, the V68 boasts copious large yacht features ingeniously fitted within a manageable owner/operator framework.
Eight Layout Options
Unique to an entry-level motor yacht such as the V68 is the option for customisation, and owners are given the choice of at least two major layout options for each deck. The V68 offers a three or four-cabin layout with a private and spacious master suite located midship with a walk-in closet and vanity. Optional quarters for crew are situated aft. JQB focused here on opening any narrow passages into foyers and making the stairs larger with less rise to optimise the flow throughout the vessel.
The quality of the woodwork throughout the V68 is outstanding and something that the builders are especially proud of. You have the a choice from a generous list of woods, fabrics and stones, along with special layout options.
On the main deck, the design emphasises unobstructed views to enhance the feeling of spaciousness with an open saloon that flows into a large joined galley and country kitchen; the main deck can also be configured with a country kitchen or lower helm forward. Full-size appliances and an abundance of cabinets and countertop space round out this functional area.
The V68 aft deck area is all about entertaining, with over 3m of space between the saloon door and the back of the seating. A wide seat and large table accommodate dining for eight guests. An interior bar serves the saloon and the aft deck equally. Side boarding gates allow for easy access when docked and there is a comfortable stairway from the aft deck to the flybridge. If you do utilise a crew quarter, there is access from the swim platform or aft deck. A hi/lo swim platform is available as an option.
How about a beach club? The V68 allows you to design the space under the aft deck into either a utility room, crew quarters or even a beach club, just like a superyacht.
Open Flybridge
The open flybridge, which is the standard configuration for this model, features a bar with dinette seating under the hard top while a spacious sunbathing and dining area is found further forward on the bow. The flybridge can be enclosed with a dayhead added if desired and removable seating with table and chairs can be added to the boat deck to entertain more than 20 guests. A modern and convenient helm, with two Garmin 22″ touch screens is located near your hand when sitting at the helm chair.
Advanced systems, safety in design, luxurious finishes and options for customisation – qualities of a custom superyacht – are the cornerstones of the V68 model. Ideal for first or second-time buyers, families and owner/operators, the V68 offers extended cruising capabilities.
Each V68 comes standard with C-Zone displays that are interfaced with the C Zone network and operator. They offer full control of circuits as well as the ability to view important onboard system information, such as tank levels and power levels for both AC and DC supplies.
Hull One of the new V68, destined features the galley/country kitchen, three-stateroom, and open flybridge configuration suitable for the global market.
Copious large yacht features ingeniously fitted within a manageable owner/operator framework – this is the cornerstone of the new Horizon V68 motor yacht model.
- Boat Design Name: Horizon V68
- Year Launched: 2018
- Builder: Horizon Yachts
- Designer: JQB Ltd
- LOA: 20.56m
- LWL: 19.87m
- Beam: 6.00m
- Deadrise: 11 deg
- Displ (Half): 50000 kgs
- Max Speed: 25 knots
- Construction: GRP
- Fuel Cap: 4542 litres
- Water Cap: 1136 litres
- Engines Make: Twin Caterpillar C18 ACERT – 1136hp
- Drive Train: Shaft
- Generator: Onan
- Air Con: Marine Air
- MFD: Garmin 22”
- Winch: Maxwell VWC3500C
- Ent System: Bose / Fusion
