Meet Spitfire: The 166-Foot Superyacht Inspired by a WWII Fighter Plane

The Turkish-based Ares Shipyard introduced its luxury superyacht brand to the sector in 2023, Ares Yachts, with the debut of its flagship sailing yacht, 203’ (62m) Simena. Now, excitement builds as focus turns to the yard’s first motor yacht under construction: the Spitfire.

The 166’ (50.5m) explorer-style yacht boasts a bold aviation-inspired design, is built on spec, available for delivery within a year, and is on the hunt for its first owner.

Aviation Meets Yachting

The superyacht draws inspiration from the legendary World War II fighter plane: fast, agile, and powerful. Just as the original aircraft was one of the most produced and pivotal fighters of the war, according to the yard, the yacht channels that into its “hybrid, lifestyle-driven superyacht experience,” prioritizing stability, comfort, and speed.

Photo from Ares Yachts

Military-Inspired Design

Designed by the renowned British studio Bannenberg & Rowell, and engineered by Lateral Naval Architects, Spitfire showcases a low profile and striking silhouette in military grey with dark glazing. Built with composites on a fast displacement hull, the yacht draws on Ares’ experience with the Ares 150 Bold, an offshore patrol vessel.

Spitfire’s outdoor spaces are made for living; with the low, open explorer-style stern signaling pending adventure. A generous beach club with fold-down terraces opens onto the water, while toys and equipment are ready for deployment. Social areas also flow, offering flexible spaces that can be opened up for gathering or closed off for privacy.

Historical Interiors

Inside, the yachts’ designs nod to the 1940s’ industrial and military influences. Metallic accents, leather finishes, tinted glass, and camouflage-inspired colour add to its adventurous ambience.

The full-beam owner’s suite, dubbed by the yard as the “boss’s quarters,” sits forward on the main deck, and the four guest cabins below, totalling 10 guests throughout. Further inside, space can be utilized for lounges, a cinema, a gym, and other entertainment purposes, ultimately designed for flexible, informal living.

Photo from Ares Yachts

Performance Opportunity

The platform is equipped with hybrid diesel-electric propulsion, enabling Spitfire to reach a top speed of 22 knots with a range of 2,200 nautical miles. The large battery bank and twin 290kW electric motors can propel the yacht for an hour under electric power alone, or, for overnight use, silence can be enjoyed while the yacht’s hotel load is run.

As the first of Ares Yachts’ speculation, Spitfire is a unique opportunity for those looking for something that values adventure, performance, and luxury on the water.