The birth of something…different
Brief
What if we could build a sailboat that our 8 year old could get us back to harbour safely in?
This is the story of how we bring to life the one, single USP above. Designing from the keel up a vessel is not child’s play…but our one singular goal is to discover if this is even do-able.
With today’s technology, in theory we can exploit and implement systems using AI in such a way that our 8 year old daughter navigate us safely. Systems so easy to use and so reliable, that if the worst should happen to the adults on board, she would feel comfortable keeping us safe.
As parents, its our job to keep our children safe. It is programmed within us to our very being, whatever walk of life we come from. From observing nature, we can see that every creature known to mankind has the same drive, to keep alive their bloodline.
This is the fundamental difference between the Borderless range of yachts, and other aluminium sailboats currently available on the market.
A bespoke yacht, based on a cumulative 40+ years’ experience of sailing in many conditions, in many different types of sailboats.
At what stage is this project today?
Today, its the 14th April 2026. This week we are finalising the details with the naval architect, Vincent Lebailly, exploring our options and what is and isn’t possible. The initial drawings are well on their way. From the paper sketches drawn by Leigh, its a very exciting step handing them over to Vincent.
The idea is to create a range of three yachts in the series: 42′, 47′ and 52′. Each one will have a lot of standard equipment, chosen by us specifically to keep the list of options to a minimum.
When enquiring on the price of a yacht is given, typically the dealer will give you the basic price with a “but”. There are always “optional extras” that are recommended, although usually they are vital to finishing the boat ready to sail. Its not like buying a car, where the car is actually finished and on the forecourt. The experience of buying a yacht can mean potentially long waiting times running up to four or five years, unless its a demo boat or a cancelled order. We might be dead by then!
This is the reason we have opted to go with a custom boat yard, reducing the waiting time massively, from five years to just a matter of eighteen months.
And the price…?
With so much equipment as standard and just a few options such as colour schemes and some tech upgrades, it is our intention that the first price you see is the price you pay. This series of yachts are packed full of goodies. The only thing you’ll have to wait for is one Christmas, not four or five, to take delivery and sail away into the sunset.
Sponsors and venture capitalists read on!
We are actively seeking sponsorship and are proud to list here the sponsors that have already agreed to support our project. If you would like your company listed, do get in touch for an informal chat!
Venture capitalists are also very welcome here. Not only do we need investors, but partners for the medium- and long-term are also very welcome. We’re in this for the long haul and building relationships outside of YouTube is where we are at the moment.
So what other USPs will the Horizon have that other yachts don’t?
Everything about the Horizon yacht has been carefully considered, right down to the way the lines work from the cockpit. We have tried to learn and adapt from other pre-existing concepts, taking from the best and making as few compromises as possible. Because building and owning a yacht is a compromise. This is something we understand and appreciate that it cannot be escaped. It is inevitable.
Let’s dive straight into the list of USPs we want on board all our boats.
- An aft stateroom in a smaller vessel, thanks to the clever design of the hull and a raised saloon.
- Mostly aluminium based, the only other structure on the sailboat is the roof, which is made up of fibreglass. This makes the most of both worlds – the strength of aluminium (with the possibility of recycling later on), and the lightweight aspect of fibreglass.
- The doghouse, which whilst not new, is an integral part of the design concept of the Horizon. Sailing in poor conditions, even for an 8 year old, is safe. There is no need to go forward to adjust the lines when tacking. Everything is to hand.
- A lower, in-line galley which is usually seen on bigger vessels. Positioned below the height of the saloon, maximising space. Because underneath the saloon, there is a hidden cabin, accessed via the galley.
- A long view forward from the cockpit with increased visibility. Many sailboats can boast this as an USP. Indeed, it is the reason why have kept this feature.
- A hidden gem lies aft, in the transom. A hidden space that, at the push of a button, transforms into an extra relaxation area situated mid-way between the stern and the bathing platform. Many hours could be spent here, relaxing in the sun with your feet in the water.
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