The Antalya-based shipyard ARES Yachts is steadily expanding its superyacht division. Active in commercial and naval shipbuilding for more than 20 years, the yard says it has now firmly established its superyacht arm and is placing two projects in the spotlight: the 50.55 m “Spitfire”, currently under construction, and the new 54 m explorer concept “Atlas”.
According to the yard, the 50.55 m Spitfire translates principles of aviation engineering into contemporary superyacht living. Designed inside and out by Bannenberg & Rowell, the yacht draws inspiration from the legendary British aircraft while presenting a thoroughly modern interpretation.
Built in advanced composite construction, “Spitfire” combines a sleek, low-profile silhouette with a high-performance fast displacement platform derived from ARES’ proven offshore patrol vessel expertise. The result is a yacht capable of 20 knots, offering long range and hybrid diesel-electric propulsion, including extended silent-mode operation for emission-free nights at anchor.
The interior follows a restrained design approach. Metallic accents, leather, tinted glass and architectural detailing are intended to evoke the atmosphere of a private jet lounge rather than a traditional yacht interior.
The owner’s suite, located forward on the main deck, provides 270-degree panoramic views. A freestanding bed defines the space, while a private foredeck cockpit can be converted into an open-air cinema. Four spacious guest cabins on the lower deck continue the calm, contemporary aesthetic.
Spitfire’s expansive beach club can be configured as a lounge, cinema or gym; glazed walls open entire social areas to the sea, and the upper deck entertainment spaces flow seamlessly from the enclosed saloon to outdoor grill and sun areas. The concept combines high-performance engineering with a fluid, open and deliberately informal lifestyle on board.
According to the yard, “Spitfire” is currently under speculative construction and structured for efficient completion once an owner is secured.
A private retreat for exploration
The 54 m “Atlas” concept has been designed by Hot Lab, part of the Viken Group, with naval architecture by Van Oossanen. With a volume of just under 500 GT, Atlas is intended to deliver the presence and capability of a significantly larger expedition yacht.
A defining feature is the multi-level owner’s terrace forward, conceived as a private, sea-facing retreat complete with a spa pool. The master suite opens directly onto this space, transforming the bow into a secluded oceanfront residence.
Aft, the beach club evolves into a three-sided open lounge thanks to fold-down terraces, a cocktail bar and direct water access, more floating resort deck than conventional swim platform. The layout consistently prioritises fluid transitions between interior and exterior areas, maintaining a constant connection to the surroundings.
Beneath the lifestyle concept lies a substantial technical platform: a fast displacement hull form for efficiency at all speeds, a transoceanic range of nearly 5,000 nautical miles, a side-launch tender garage, extensive toy storage and helipad capability. Hybrid solutions and reduced-emission technologies form an integral part of the overall design.
