When Phillip and Lori Smith purchased their first Horizon Powercat, the PC60 Rum Rascal, their attendance at the 2026 Horizon Power Catamaran Owners’ Rendezvous quickly became a must. Following the event, we caught up with the couple to hear their thoughts on the experience.

Q: Tell us about your Horizon Powercat

A: We own Rum Rascal,  a Horizon PC60, which we purchased from another owner in August, 2025.  We spent a few months customizing and making it our own before attending the 2026 Horizon Powercat Owners’ Rendezvous.

Q: Was this your first Rendezvous?

A: Yes, this was our first, but not the last!

Q: Do you frequently cruise The Bahamas?

A: We have been cruising the Bahamas for about 30 years, primarily the Abacos. Initially, we owned a 57’ motor yacht, but when our kids were little, we built a home on Green Turtle Cay. So the Abacos are like a second home to us. We loved the house but we missed island hopping in a boat. So with Rum Rascal, we are excited to explore the Exumas, Eleuthera, and more of the Out Islands we haven’t seen. We feel like the Horizon PC is made for Bahamas cruising.

Q: What was your overall impression of the Rendezvous?

A: We knew it would be fun, but we were blown away by how organized and elevated it was. Team Horizon went out of its way to make us feel welcome and make it a special weekend. Within an hour of arriving, they were on board, welcoming us with gifts, followed by a beautiful champagne toast and dinner on the docks. Every single event was so well planned and executed. In the years leading up to our purchase, every time we looked at Horizon, the team talked about how you’re not just buying a boat, you’re buying into a family. They really delivered on that promise at the Rendezvous.

Q: Favorite Rendezvous event?

A: Hard to choose — the scavenger hunt was fun (and challenging) and we’re still laughing about the mishaps we had trying to solve the clues. The Pimp My Ride golf cart contest really helped us see how enthusiastic Horizon owners are— they came to play! The beach barbecue was also a favorite of our crew…I think we may have been the last boat to leave.

Q: Most memorable moment?

A: Sunset at the beach barbecue was pretty spectacular. We had just spent a couple of hours chatting and getting to know other owners, sharing favorite marinas and anchorages, and then closed the day with an incredible sunset. We were more than happy to help the Horizon Team finish off the remaining stone crab and one more bottle of rosé. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.

Q: Did you win any awards?

A: We did!  We tied with Oasis for best-tasting cocktail in the Captain’s Cocktail competition. This was a satisfying win as we debuted our signature cocktail — The Rum Rascal. Our crew had been testing recipes for weeks leading up to the event. I mean, you can’t name your boat Rum Rascal and not have a good rum cocktail on board. The judges had a challenge because there were some beautiful cocktails made, but we were thrilled that they liked our drink.

Q: Do you plan to return?

A: Without a doubt! Our 2026 crew has offered to clear their schedule for 2027, and our adult kids are also lobbying for a spot on board. We may have to initiate a lottery system!