The nomination arrives as Allures opens a new design chapter
Allures describes the Horizon 47 as the beginning of a new chapter rather than a routine replacement model. The yacht keeps the yard's aluminium hull, composite deck, centreboard and twin-rudder philosophy but reorganises the deck and living spaces around a stronger visual connection between the crew and the surrounding sea.
The European Yacht of the Year nomination places that approach alongside other major new launches for 2027. Awards do not replace sea trials or owner experience, but the selection indicates that the design has attracted attention beyond the shipyard before the new platform has had time to build a large fleet.
The Horizon Frame lowers side decks and raises protection
The defining Horizon Frame concept uses lowered side decks running level with the cockpit, combined with a 40-centimetre bulwark around much of the yacht. A lightwell through the bulwarks aligns with the saloon windows, allowing seated occupants to maintain an outward view without sacrificing the physical protection required offshore.
Allures also creates dedicated watch positions beneath the rigid dodger and hardtop. The arrangement is intended to keep crew protected from wind, spray and excessive sun while retaining forward visibility, an important consideration for couples who may divide watchkeeping over several days.
Aluminium and centreboard architecture preserve the bluewater brief
The Horizon 47 measures 14.25 metres in hull length with a 4.70-metre beam and a centreboard draft range from about 1.20 to 3.10 metres. The aluminium hull is paired with a lighter composite deck, while twin rudders maintain control when the centreboard is raised for downwind sailing or shallow-water access.
That combination gives the yacht access to anchorages that fixed-keel cruisers of similar size cannot use while preserving a deep foil for upwind work. It also keeps the design aligned with Allures' established focus on repairable aluminium structures and long-distance autonomy rather than marina-based luxury alone.
Panoramic living spaces bring the change below deck
Inside, Berret-Racoupeau and Patrick le Quément have developed a more open saloon with panoramic windows, a central-island galley and flexible owner accommodation. The yacht can be arranged with two or three cabins and carries 650 litres of diesel and 550 litres of water for extended cruising.
The nomination therefore reflects a model attempting to combine two priorities that can conflict on offshore yachts: strong crew protection and a more open, light-filled living environment. The 2027 judging process will provide an early external test of whether Allures has balanced those aims convincingly.
Official sources: www.allures.com; www.allures.com.
