The ceremonial premiere took place at the 2026 Horizon Open House in Kaohsiung. With the Lexus LY680, the brand has resumed its collaboration with Toyota subsidiary Lexus. Although the new model follows on from the LY650, it will not be built in the USA again. The construction site for the 21-metre model is the Taiwanese Vision shipyard, which belongs to the Horizon Group.
The LY680 once again combines the experience in custom yacht building with the production system of the Japanese car manufacturer. The concept focuses on extended exterior areas, based on feedback from previous LY650 owners. The 20 metre long semi-glider - a Nuvoluari Lenard design - was unveiled in 2018 and manufactured at Marquis Larson on Lake Michigan.
More space on the flybridge
Curves and curved surfaces characterise the L-finesse design, which suggests a lot of joy of movement and driving pleasure. The silhouette echoes that of the LY650 and is once again clearly orientated towards noble automobiles. Horizon builds 100 feet.
The flybridge of the LY680 extends aft by 1,400 millimetres. This creates a spacious lounge with a wide sofa. A barbecue grill can be integrated here as an option. The bathing platform is extended by 700 millimetres, providing additional space for guests who take to the water from here with or without toys.
Peace reigns inside
The main lounge with its large windows dispenses with narrow passageways and is beautifully airy. The dining area blends into the open-plan layout. As with the LY650, warm colours, lots of wood and organic shapes define the interior. Below deck, there are three cabins for up to six guests.
Neither noise nor vibrations are noticeable in the living areas. The clever design once again utilises modern technologies from the automotive sector and ensures a quiet interior - both when travelling and at anchor.
Glide along like in a Lexus
Two economical Volvo Penta IPS units power the LY680, available in the 1050 or 1350 variants. The fuel tank holds over 4,000 litres, the range enables extended coastal journeys. The maximum speed is likely to be the same as that of the predecessor model: The LY650 reaches a top speed of at least 33 knots.
The hull design provides a stable platform in rough seas, which should also be modelled on a Lexus vehicle. Quality control follows Toyota's principles and Horizon standards. Toyota has also been building boats since 1997 and offers sports fishermen and GRP cabin cruisers with car engines. A 13-metre sports yacht with Lexus drive was added in 2017. Top speed: 43 knots.
About Horizon Yachts:
Horizon Yachts was founded in 1987 and has since delivered more than 940 yachts, of which over 260 are over 80 feet in length. The portfolio includes motorboats, superyachts, power cats and explorers.
Uske Berndt
Editor News & Panorama
