Turkish yard Ares Yachts has officially begun construction on its first motor superyacht, the 51-metre Spitfire, with the announcement made during the Monaco Yacht Show 2025. The yacht, now in the molding phase at the Antalya-based shipyard, marks a significant milestone for Ares Yachts as it expands into the superyacht sector.
Design Inspired by Aviation Icons
Measuring 50.6 metres, Spitfire is based on the proven fast displacement hull dynamics of Ares’ offshore patrol vessel series, the Ares 150 Bold, and takes inspiration from the legendary British Supermarine Spitfire aircraft.
The yacht’s design is a collaboration between British studio Bannenberg & Rowell, responsible for both interior and exterior styling, and Lateral Naval Architects, who provided the engineering. The result is a yacht described by the yard as “industrial, functional and beautifully detailed.”
A sleek profile, rounded bow and a low superstructure framed by bands of dark glass define the exterior, paired with a military-grey finish that reinforces her purposeful explorer aesthetic.
Flexible Living & Distinctive Interiors
Inside, Spitfire embraces natural, camouflage-inspired tones with materials such as leather, punched metal and tinted glass. Subtle references to 1940s industrial architecture appear in the glazing and bathroom finishes.
Key highlights include:
- Full-beam owner’s suite on the main deck, nicknamed the “boss’s quarters”, complete with a freestanding bed offering 270-degree views.
- A private forward cockpit cinema, with retractable side screens and glass bulwarks for an oceanfront movie experience.
- A vast beach club, featuring fold-down terraces, a transformer platform and flexible interior space configurable as a lounge, cinema or gym.
- Social spaces designed for fluid living, with sliding glass walls and sunroofs transforming interiors into open-air lounges.
Speaking exclusively, Dickie Bannenberg explained:
“We’ve given her a very different layout without labouring the heritage point of ‘Spitfire’. Interior spaces have been rechristened as ‘scramble spaces’ and ‘boss’s quarters’, breaking away from the traditional saloon labels. It sets a unique story for this yacht and how she will be perceived.”
Engineering & Performance
Spitfire will feature hybrid diesel-electric propulsion, offering flexibility in range and operations. The yacht will be capable of:
- Over 20 knots top speed
- 3,500 nautical miles cruising range
- Silent running for up to 11 hours with an extended battery package.
A New Era for Ares Yachts
According to Piraye Şahinkaya Orhun, Yachts Projects Director at Ares Yachts:
“While Spitfire is progressing as a speculative build, all structural and technical planning is already in place. Once a client is confirmed, we are ready to deliver within 24 months, thanks to significant groundwork already completed.”
With Spitfire, Ares Yachts signals its ambition to blend its proven shipbuilding pedigree with cutting-edge design and innovation in the superyacht market.
