A Revolutionary Approach to the 2,000 GT Yacht Rule: Lateral Naval Architects and Foster & Partners' Daring Innovation

In a terrain known for its rigidity and conformity, Foster + Partners and Lateral Naval Architects are pushing the boundaries. Their latest innovation, the Outlier, aims to redefine the standards of the 2,000 GT yacht sector. Taking the reigns from existing norms, they promise a reimagined approach that goes far beyond the traditional blueprint. Senior naval architect at Lateral, Ollie Cooper, passionately believes in this cause, affirming that Outlier is not just a platform, but an invitation to reimagine yacht design from within.

Drawing from Lateral’s Ultra-Efficient Hull series, the 88.5-metre Outlier platform vouches a 16 per cent escalation in length within the 85-metre load line limit, whilst using 20 per cent less power and attaining 17 per cent lower fuel consumption. By relocating the machinery to the front, facilitated by an electric-hybrid system with a 4.0 Mwh battery installation, Outlier promises quiet guest spaces, improved comfort amidships and seamless lower decks.

The redesigned platform also allows for up to 40 per cent more exterior space and increased flexibility with the yacht’s profile courtesy of internal exhaust system routing. To showcase this, Foster + Partners have sculpted the Outlier I, embodying attributes usually seen only on larger superyachts over 5,000 GT with its strong emphasis on deck and space connectivity, revamped guest accommodations prioritising privacy and social interaction. Despite its innovation, the Outlier concept is not limited to the 2,000 GT range; the design could be applied to smaller yachts in the 1,500 GT or even 950 GT categories.

Presented at the Monaco Yacht Show, the Outlier is a testament to Foster + Partners and Lateral’s commitment to challenging the norm and innovating in a sector often dominated by tradition. This bold step heralds the beginning of a new chapter for yacht design, where boundaries are actively pursued. It remains to be seen whether this will disrupt the longstanding baseline, and redefine what a yacht in the 2,000 GT bracket can be.