Our Shipyard

A tank test is comparable to a wind tunnel for aerospace and automobiles.

A variety of scale models of the hull design, from 1:8 to 1:12, are made and towed along a water-filled tank up to 1,000 feet (300M) in length. A towing cart equipped with sensors and microprocessors tows the model and collects results for computer analysis.

All Horizon yachts undergo resistance and wave-encountering tests in cooperation with international test tanks such as SSPA and HSVA as well as local academies including USDDC, NTU (National Taiwan University) and NTOU (National Taiwan Ocean University)

Quality control is an integral part of each stage of the Horizon yacht build process, and the Horizon R&D team firmly believes that the highest quality products are derived only through the integration of high-caliber and thorough inspection technologies.

Raw materials, FRP and hull appearance testing is performed at Horizon’s own in-house laboratory, which first selects and tests all raw materials to be used in construction. Routine tests include Mechanical Property, Resin Flow, Weather Resistance, Discoloration, Process ability, and Fire-Retardant Testing. During production, Horizon technicians inspect the materials at every stage. Every test result and all manufacturing parameters are uploaded to a materials’ database which serves as a valuable reference for further design and analysis.

Horizon implements the most advanced Non Destructive Testing (NDT) technology–commonly used in the aerospace industry and military applications–to analyze the internal quality and structural integrity of the hull components without damaging the component. Horizon is the only Asian shipyard to utilize this technology, which includes three components: Ultrasonic Inspection, Infrared Thermographic and Laser Shearography.

Every Horizon yacht undergoes a rigorous sea trial involving a third party survey to ensure proper systems operation and maneuverability. The maneuvering trials include a speed test, turning circle, emergency stern propulsion, stopping inertia, zigzagging with power loss stability tests and a full-power endurance test. These tests also include sophisticated data analysis of frequency and harmonics onboard as well as include trim level tests at varying power loads. All major equipment – such as anchors, thrusters, safety equipment and fire-suppression systems – are tested and detailed records of all these tests are kept in a database for future reference.

As a yacht is prepared for delivery, Horizon performs a series of water leak tests to ensure that the yacht is completely watertight. These tests simulate weather conditions during a monsoon, using thousands of gallons water to shower the yacht from various angles for2-4 hours. Horizon’s leak test is important in guaranteeing the yacht is completely sealed and safe from outside water sources.