Ares Yachts has begun construction on the 50.55-meter Spitfire superyacht.Is high-quality fiberglass craftsmanship a key feature?
Just weeks after launching its first superyacht, the 62-meter Simena, Ares Yachts has begun construction on its next major project: the 50.55-meter Spitfire, which is now in the mold-forming stage.
Spitfire, currently in the mold-forming stage, will be the shipyard's first motor superyacht. Denison Yachting and Christie's Yachts are jointly representing the yacht for sale.
Piraye Sahinkaya Orhun, Yacht Project Director at Ares Yachts, stated, "Although the project is currently under 'speculative construction' (construction before a buyer is confirmed), all structural and technical plans are in place. Once a buyer is confirmed, we are fully capable of completing construction within 24 months. Much of the groundwork, including pre-design, engineering, and procurement preparation, has been completed, ensuring a smooth transition to full construction once the commission is received."
The yacht's interior and exterior design, by veteran design firm Bannenberg & Rowell, draws inspiration from one of the most iconic aircraft in British aviation history: the Supermarine Spitfire. This inspiration is reflected in the yacht's sleek lines, metallic finishes, and functional geometric forms, all of which will be realized using advanced composite materials.
Spitfire features a sleek, low-profile superstructure with dark glazing and a military gray paint scheme. The yacht's broad, rounded bow descends vertically from the angled bulwarks, while the low, open, explorer-style stern embodies its adventurous spirit. The interior design features natural camouflage-inspired tones and materials, such as perforated metal, leather, and tinted glass. The yacht also incorporates design elements from 1940s industrial architecture in the glass supports and bathroom finishes.
All guest cabins feature spacious en-suite bathrooms and ample storage space. The master suite spans the entire beam of the main deck forward, with four spacious guest cabins located below. A highlight of the master suite is its freestanding king-size bed and 270-degree panoramic views. For movie lovers, the suite also boasts an outdoor cinema in the private foredeck cockpit area, equipped with retractable side screens and glass bulwarks, creating a stunning ocean view as the perfect backdrop. High-Quality Fiberglass Construction
Orhun added, "Spitfire is the culmination of years of meticulous research and development, and we are proud to reveal more details about this groundbreaking project. This yacht showcases our expertise in high-quality fiberglass construction and high-performance hull design. Featuring a versatile beach club that can be transformed into a lounge, cinema, or gym, the yacht was built for an adventurous, leisure-seeking, dynamic, and forward-thinking owner."
While inspired by history, Spitfire's design embodies the concept of contemporary open-plan yacht living, fostering a relaxed and informal atmosphere that maximizes the pleasure of sailing. Furthermore, because the yacht is being speculatively built, prospective owners have a degree of interior customization, particularly in areas such as carpeting and soft furnishings.
Built for adventurous cruising, Spitfire combines high performance with exceptional stability, boasting a top speed exceeding 20 knots and a range of 3,500 nautical miles. Its innovative, high-tech hull platform is based on the proven fast-displacement hull dynamics of Ares Yachts' acclaimed offshore patrol boat, the Ares 150 Bold. The hull's engineering was handled by Lateral Naval Architects.
Spitfire features a diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system that allows for flexible power management. Two 290-kW electric motors, powered by a large-capacity battery pack, propel the yacht for up to one hour of cruising time. This zero-emission electric system also silently operates all onboard systems at night. With the optional addition of an extended battery pack, silent operation can be extended to 11 hours, even in Mediterranean conditions. Furthermore, a variable-speed generator further enhances onboard comfort and energy efficiency, ensuring a quiet and refined cruising experience.
