Horizon 62 Plus

We were first introduced to Horizon Yachts when we tested the company's magnificent 80-footer last year. And what an introduction it was! While the Taiwanese builder is certainly capable of producing a truly spectacular craft, a certain amount of credit must go to the company's local representatives, Horizon Yachts Australasia.

Brisbane-based directors Ken and David Cougan have made no less than a dozen trips to the Kaohsiung factory in the past 12 months to ensure that the product heading to Australia is precisely what the local market demands.

The Cougans' relentless push for perfection has resulted in a product that not only suits Australian conditions but is of a truly world-class standard.

EXACTING STANDARDS
The word 'Plus' is an apt extension of this vessel's title. With an LOA of 19.53m and a beam of 5.28m, it could easily be tagged a 65-footer and no-one would bat an eyelid. Indeed, its features belie its size.

The 62 Plus is actually the smallest in the company's range, but that doesn't mean that any corners are cut. The exacting construction methods used on the 80 are also found on the 62. Built to both Det Norske Veritas (DNV) and Uniform Shipping Laws (USL) surveys, the 62 Plus can be used as a charter vessel in any state of Australia or in New Zealand.

To meet these survey requirements is no easy task, so it's almost like a written guarantee that this boat is quality to the core. Things like watertight doors and bulkheads, fire retarding systems and a hull that can withstand an impact of 4.0g at the bow aren't essential fittings on most boats, but, boy, you're glad you've got them when you need them!

NO SLOUCH
With bow and stern thrusters, manoeuvrability around a cramped marina is a snap. Even without the thrusters you could pretty much spin the 62 on its own length working one prop against the other.

Twin 1200hp MAN diesels mean this 'little' Horizon is no slouch. We reached a top speed of 28kt, but only a boat tester or an oil baron would drive around at that speed in a 62-footer. I thought the boat felt nice at 1800rpm with a bit of bow up on the trim tabs. This provided a quick cruise of 18kt, though even at this speed you are chewing some serious juice. According to Horizon, at 12kt the 5000lt fuel tank will provide a range of more than 600nm.

OPEN AND ENTERTAINING
As you enter the saloon, the first thing you notice is the huge windows. Although inside, you can still keep an eye on what is happening outside. The windows also help brighten the room, providing a really open feeling.

In keeping with the bright and airy feeling, Horizon use beautiful light cherrywood timbers finished in a high gloss and light coloured quality leather upholstery.

Two steps up from the saloon is the helm area, which also includes a galley to starboard and another lounge to port. The helmstation is extremely well laid out with a superb array of electronics and monitoring systems. Vision from this downstairs helm is the best I've seen and the helmchair, custom built by Horizon, is second to none.

The 62 Plus features a three-cabin layout. A master stateroom is located amidships at the aft end of the companionway. A VIP stateroom is located in the forepeak and a crew or kids' room with twin bunks is located on the port side. There are two bathrooms. The accommodation fitout is truly stunning.

Head up to the flybridge and you're greeted by an expansive teak-laid deck that is big enough to hold a party. The upper helm is centrally located with all the features to navigate with the wind in your hair.

FOR MORE DETAILS...
While Horizon continue to build its boats to DNV survey, you know you are buying a world-class product from bow to stern.

For our more detailed report on the Horizon 62 Plus, don't miss the first issue of Big Boat Quarterly, on sale this month.