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Kaohsiung, Taiwan, Dec. 17, 2009 – According to the latest 2010 Global Order Book compiled by ShowBoats International magazine, Horizon is ranked as No. 9 megayacht builder in the world and the only one Asian yacht builder among world’s largest top 20.

As one of the world’s major leading yacht manufacturers to build the megayachts, Horizon Group has excellent ability, abundant experience, state-of-the-art facilities and advanced innovative technology to build the unique megayacht for the global customers. The latest completed semi-custom megayacht is “Espresso” the second vessel of Horizon Elegance 120 Raised Pilothouse motor yacht.

Designed by J.C. Espinosa, the 122-foot Espresso which has been delivered to her owners in Europe, successfully reached a top speed of 26 knots, thanks to her powerful military-type MTU 3,650-hp engines and strict weight control of all components during construction. Espresso is a perfect example of how Horizon customizes its models to meet customers’ dreams.

In order to meet the owner’s request for 25-knot top speed, Espresso, a 120 Raised Pilothouse model, was extended two feet to accommodate the dimensions of her high horsepower engines. While engineering the weights and balances for this yacht, Horizon undertook to reduce weight in every aspect of equipment, decoration and structure, etc. Meanwhile, in accordance with the output of these big engines, hull structure, shafts, ventilation and other relative systems were modified and upgraded to insure safety when operating at high speed. During development, Horizon executed many tank tests at National Taiwan Cheng Gong University and used the results to modify the hull shape for optimum performance.

In accordance with the high standards of quality expected of a luxury yacht, all the materials, equipment and decor are top grade. Modifications and upgrades executed during the construction included the following items:

• The strength and stability of the entire structure were inspected and verified by DNV to ensure safe operation;
• The guest staterooms are designed with sliding beds and easily converted from twin beds to a double bed;
• Almost 95% of the decorations and accessories were imported from the world’s top manufacturers in Europe;
• The electrical system accepts and converts all voltages of shore power to facilitate cruising around the world;
• A free-standing gearbox reduces engine vibration throughout the hull;
• The gearbox itself is mounted on a shock-absorbing foundation to isolate thrust and stop vibration;
• Extra insulation at the water-line reduces the noise of waves striking the hull;
• Incorporating a floating salon floor further reduces vibration transmitted to the living areas from engines and propellers;
• Large-diameter 5-bladed propellers provide smoother running.

Espresso not only features a graceful appearance and safe, comfortable operation, but a remarkable interior as well created by the Dutch design firm Guido de Groot. Whitewashed oak and contrasting zebrano wood highlighted by a sophisticated lighting plan create a modern, minimalist European style. The entire interior was rendered in 3D technology to make sure every construction detail was error-free.

The yacht incorporates eight staterooms with ensuite heads and showers to accommodate twelve guests and six crews. The master stateroom is located forward on the main deck and Guido utilized space masterfully. This split-level suite flows in an open-plan style incorporating a sleeping area, study and elegant master bath. On the lower deck, the VIP stateroom is forward with port and starboard guest staterooms following behind.

The main salon is spacious and airy opening to a dining room amidships that accommodates 10 guests in comfort. At the forward bulkhead, electric sliding doors open to the galley on port and the master suite on starboard. Paintings on the sliding doors are the work of a famous Dutch painter, Robert Vanderplas. Robert visited the yard while the yacht was under construction and finished painting the doors on site. Large windows flanking the salon and dining room allow plenty of natural light for appreciating his art.

Espresso’s well-appointed galley is linked to the crew cabins below deck enabling the crew to enter the galley through a side door and reach their accommodations without going through public areas. The crew area includes one captain’s cabin and two symmetrical crew cabins.

In the spacious engine room, two MTU 16V4000M90 engines are flanked by Onan 80kW 380v/3phase/50hz generators. Extensive sound insulation panels prevent noise and vibration from entering the cabins. Aft of the engine room are a workshop and additional crew cabin.

Astern, the high-low swimming platform can be easily dropped one meter below waterline to facilitate opening the garage door and launching the tender. The swim platform can carry a Jet ski as well. The garage is more than 5.5 meters long, large enough for a Novurania EQ530 tender seating nine passengers. A hydraulic ladder on the port side eases access to the swim platform for swimmers and divers.

Customized to satisfy her owner’s demands, Espresso delivers an elegant stylish exterior, unique interior design, a well-thought-out arrangement, and excellent seakeeping ability. She is ready to travel safely to any destination over the horizon.