The 2024 Horizon Yacht USA Owners’ Rendezvous gathered in Key West, Florida, drawing together 20 owners, 15 yachts, and over 120 guests for three days filled with delightful cuisine, adventurous excursions, and vibrant social events.
With the memories of the 2023 Mystic Seaport Owners’ Rendezvous in Connecticut fading, anticipation built for this year’s event in the lively and historic Key West.
Known as Ernest Hemingway’s muse, Key West offered the perfect backdrop for the rendezvous with its unique charm, America’s only living coral reef, the bustling Duval Street, and breathtaking sunsets.
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A Grand Entrance
The event kicked off in grand fashion with the arrival of the E98 yacht, Do It Now. Opting for a fashionably late entrance, the Horizon staff arranged a special “Key West” welcome. As the yacht docked, two local drag queens assisted with docking and entertained the crowd, setting a lively tone for the weekend.
Welcome Reception
Guests were then invited to explore the Perry Hotel & Marina before attending a Key West-themed poolside reception. With henna tattoos, locally inspired hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, and live music, the event provided a perfect opportunity for new and long-time Horizon owners to mingle and share their seafaring adventures.
Daytime Adventures
Saturday offered a range of activities tailored to different interests. Guests chose between seaplane tours to the Dry Tortugas, jet ski tours, a Paint and Sip session at the hotel, or exploring Duval Street. Those visiting the Dry Tortugas enjoyed a scenic flight pointing out wildlife and historical shipwrecks before landing at Fort Jefferson. The jet ski tours provided a thrilling experience, while the Paint and Sip session allowed for a more relaxed artistic endeavor.
Evening Festivities
As the iconic Key West sunset dimmed, guests donned island chic attire and gathered at Matt’s Stock Island Bar & Grille for an elegant dinner. The evening was filled with conversations, exquisite local dishes, and palpable excitement for the next day’s events.
Yacht Hop Competition
The final day featured the much-anticipated Yacht Hop. Owners decorated their aft decks, crafted signature cocktails, and prepared appetizers in a friendly competition judged by Johnny Vance, the Perry Hotel & Marina Concierge. This event allowed owners to showcase their creativity and hospitality while fostering new friendships.
Havana Nights Farewell
The weekend concluded with a “Havana Nights” themed farewell event. Guests enjoyed a Cuban-inspired dinner, Pilar Rum tasting, hand-rolled cigars, and danced the night away by the pool. The highlight of the evening was the announcement of the Yacht Hop winners:
- Best Overall: Horizon E88 Q
- Best Cocktail: Horizon E88 Island Soul for their Lychee Martini, with an honorable mention to E84 Sea Fairy for their Frozen Mojito.
- Best Dish: Mazel Horizon V68 for their Charcuterie Board, with an honorable mention to Kevin from Do it Now for his Yellowtail Hitachi Crudo.
- Best Décor: The judges were split between Monaco (Horizon V68) and Sherri Lynn (Horizon FD80), awarding both with a prize. The Pilot Lounge E84 received an honorable mention.
Closing Remarks
Roger Sowerbutts, Horizon Yachts USA, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Horizon staff and the Perry Hotel & Marina for their hospitality. He also thanked the Horizon owners for their loyalty, emphasizing the importance of such gatherings in strengthening the Horizon community.
As the event drew to a close, guests enjoyed the last moments of the rendezvous, looking forward to next year’s gathering. The 2024 Horizon Yacht USA Owners’ Rendezvous in Key West was a resounding success, leaving attendees with cherished memories and anticipation for future adventures.
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