Kit Carlier Design Escape 33

Finalist
Credits
  • Pou Auaha / Creative Director
    Kit Carlier
  • Ngā Kaimahi / Team Member
    Olivia Spinetto
Description:

The Kit Carlier Design ‘Escape 33’ is a 33-foot (36-foot overall) monohull SUV power cruiser, designed to fill a gap in the Australasian market. Options for similar vessels are very limited, often extremely expensive, larger and more complicated than our target audience are seeking. Imports are unsuited to Australasian conditions and lifestyle, with lack of sun protection and insufficient outdoor space to cater to the indoor-outdoor living that is sought. The Escape 33 is a versatile, affordable, and efficient vessel poised to revolutionize the Australasian market.
Our client research identified an exciting opportunity to deliver a well-appointed vessel that is attainable for a typical middle-class Australasian family. From this research, a concise list of objectives was developed: a stable, easily driven hull shape that maximises accommodation and performs well at sea; a versatile solution able to suit a vast array of buyers and their activities such as diving, fishing, and exploring the coastline; and an affordable yet luxurious interior fit-out that prioritises weight savings to achieve maximum efficiencies.
Designing the exterior was a careful balancing act. We created a sea-kindly platform, prioritising maximum efficiency while conveying a go-anywhere, do-anything attitude. Simultaneously, we aimed to maximize interior volume to create a high-end, comfortable space with multiple zones suitable to accommodate a small family. As a result, the Escape 33 is an optimized luxury craft with every millimeter of space thoughtfully utilized.
The exterior styling features modern design elements, characterized by sleek, chiseled lines and expansive windows providing 360 degree views. A large skylight with opening sunroof brings in plenty of natural light and lets the outdoors in. The reverse windscreen enhances the sense of spaciousness in the main saloon, ensuring excellent visibility, minimizing solar heat gain, and reducing reflections during nighttime operations. Below the waterline, the hull's fine entry and double chine design maximize volume in the forward accommodation and helps keep the boat dry in choppy conditions. Powering options also bring flexibility offering a simple and uncomplicated twin outboard installation or a single inboard.
In the raised cockpit section, a dining space provides shelter from the elements and grandstand seating for observing activities. This versatile area can also be transformed into a daybed for leisurely relaxation under the sun.
The spacious lower accommodation includes a generous master cabin with an ensuite and an additional guest cabin, all accessible via floating steps through a sliding companionway door. In the master cabin, a centrally positioned double berth is embraced by plush upholstered panels, creating a serene and luxurious atmosphere. The guest cabin, tucked aft and separated by its own door, offers both a single and double berth to cater to various accommodation needs.
The Escape 33 represents a perfect balance of form and function for an easy and enjoyable experience, while maintaining affordability, to be an attractive option in the market.