Just weeks after launching its debut superyacht, the 62-metre Simena, Antalya-based Ares Yachts has already moved on to its next major project: 50.6-metre Spitfire, now entering the moulding phase. This marks an exciting milestone as the shipyard’s first motor superyacht.
The platform is derived from the ARES 150 BOLD, which was named the World’s Best Offshore Patrol Vessel in 2018. "The hull of Spitfire is a slightly refined and enhanced version of this proven design, preserving its exceptional seaworthiness and performance while elevating the experience with the comfort and luxury of a superyacht," explains Piraye Sahinkaya Orhun, yacht projects director at Ares Yachts. "For owners, this means confidence in performance, safety and range, married with the comfort and style expected from a top-tier superyacht."
Design inspired by aviation heritage
Designed inside and out by London-based studio Bannenberg & Rowell, Spitfire draws inspiration from the legendary British aircraft of the same name. "The inspiration for the project is the Supermarine Spitfire, perhaps the most famous and evocative aircraft in British military history," explains co-founder Dickie Bannenberg. "A simultaneously beautiful and deadly design, a fast, nimble response to the challenges of the ‘new’ battlefield of World War Two: the air. We hope it also engenders an emotional response with suggestions of the Spitfire’s dynamic design, smooth surfaces, metallic sheen and signature colourways – all wrapped up in taut geometry."
Externally, the yacht features a low-profile superstructure with dark glass bands and a military grey finish. Her wide, rounded bow drops vertically from cutaway bulwarks, while a low, open, explorer-style stern signals her adventurous character.
"She’s certainly more than a weekend boat," adds Bannenberg. "I think the idea is that she’ll blast from port to port and perhaps do shorter trips than some of those more extensive two or three-week voyages that people do."
A yacht with character
In a departure from conventional yachting terminology, Ares Yachts and Bannenberg & Rowell have given the onboard spaces evocative names reflecting Spitfire’s aviation inspiration. The yacht accommodates up to 10 guests in two double and two twin cabins known as the Buddy Quarters, while the full-beam Boss Quarters serves as the owner’s suite. The dining salon is called D-Fac, the main saloon is The Bunker and the aft terrace is referred to as the Scramble Station. On the upper deck, the open wheelhouse and Ready Room create a social hub connecting the owner, captain and guests when underway, while the Wardroom – a skylounge with full-length side and aft doors and a retractable roof – opens onto the expansive Poop Deck with its grill bar. Together, they form a spectacular open-air level.
"The Ready Room, which interconnects with the pilothouse, is a space to hang out, discuss the day’s plan and be in a state of anticipation for the next Spitfire adventure," says Bannenberg. "We wanted to eschew yachting convention a little and so named areas after the inspiration for the project. The Buddy Quarters in particular are a nod to the more democratic lifestyle on board most yachts these days."
Contemporary interiors with industrial flair
Inside, Spitfire embraces industrial yet elegant styling. Materials such as punched metal, leather and tinted glass echo the aircraft inspiration, while camouflage-inspired tones and 1940s-style architectural details bring subtle historical references.
The owner’s full-beam main deck suite stands out with its freestanding bed offering 270-degree ocean views, complemented by four spacious guest cabins below. A highlight for film lovers is the private outdoor cinema on the owner’s forward cockpit, complete with retractable side screens and a Jacuzzi for the ultimate open-air experience.
Despite its historical nods, the yacht embodies contemporary open-plan living, maximising enjoyment of the water. As a speculative build, prospective owners retain the flexibility to tailor the soft furnishings and carpets to their preferences. "We wouldn’t be doing our job as designers properly if we didn’t have some options up the sleeves of our flying jackets," says Bannenberg.
Orhun describes Spitfire as the culmination of years of development: "It showcases our expertise in high-quality fibreglass construction and high-performance hull design. With features like a flexible beach club that transforms into a lounge, cinema or gym, Spitfire is built for an active, forward-thinking owner who values both adventure and relaxation."
Eco-minded performance
The yacht’s naval architecture is by Lateral Naval Architects, which has engineered the platform for both speed and efficiency. With a top speed of over 20 knots and a cruising range of 3,500 nautical miles, Spitfire is primed for adventurous cruising.
Her hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system ensures quiet, versatile operation. Twin 290kW electric motors allow up to an hour of emissions-free cruising, while an optional extended battery package enables as much as 11 hours of silent operation. Overnight, owners and guests can enjoy a peaceful onboard experience, with the battery bank able to power hotel loads without generators, while variable-speed generators further improve efficiency and comfort.
Although the build is currently progressing on speculation, much of the technical groundwork and procurement has already been completed. Once a client is confirmed, Ares Yachts can deliver Spitfire in just 24 months.
For further details about the yacht, contact Ares Yachts or the joint central agents at Denison Yachts and Christie Yachts.
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