The French builder Allures, which is part of the Grand Large Groupe, announced recently that they are adding a new 47-footer to their line of aluminum blue water cruisers. Allures has long been a favorite of veteran world cruisers and the new Horizon 47, falling between the 45 and 51, will be a size that cruising couples will covet.
The new 47 ticks so many boxes it’s hard to know where to begin. But, starting with the hull design, the form is modern Euro style with a straight sheer, plumb bow, squared off stern and ample hull glazing.
Under the water, there are twin rudders aft for impressive tracking and maneuverability. The drop keel has a high-aspect foil design for windward sailing and can be retracted for venturing into shallow coves and gunk holes. The boat’s beam is carried all the way aft which adds to interior volume and will aid in power reaching.
The 47’s double-headsail rig has the mast stepped well aft which opens up the fore triangle for a good-size, self-tacking jib. This will be appreciated by couples who don’t want to crank winches when sailing upwind.
The expansive fore deck is also large enough to carry a dinghy when sailing offshore. The fore sail is a large reacher that will be a boon when reaching and running.
The cockpit is a true blue water outdoor space where the crew will spend the majority of their time both while sailing and at anchor. The hard top and windshield are solid structures instead of the usual canvas bimini and dodger. This offers superior protection from the elements.
Note that the mainsheet traveler is on the hard top where the whole tackle is far removed from the crew in the cockpit. This is the safest way to run a mainsheet so even in a sudden jibe or when reefing in strong winds, the crew is never in harm’s way.
Ther are good-size seats at the twin helms and behind these the full-width of the transom folds down to make an expansive swim platform. Over it are the composite davits that will make hoisting the dinghy a cinch.
Allures has made a commitment to providing an interior that is bright, homey and laid out for voyaging and living aboard. The saloon is a proper living room with a large C-shaped dinette and a huge galley. The master cabin forward is spacious and endowed with the storage space you need for living aboard.
The quarter cabins will be comfortable for family and guests and will make excellent sea berths when sailing offshore. The port cabin can also be configured as a utility space with a work bench and storage for tools and spare parts.
The new Horizon 47 is not a production line cruiser intended for casual coastal sailing. This aluminum thoroughbred is a perfect platform for a circumnavigation and high latitude explorations. If that’s your thing, then here’s the boat for you.
