Crafting eternal moments
ONBOARD MAGAZINE talks with Mr. Kerim Kalafatoglum about Ares Yachts’ heritage and vision of building the world’s most stunning and technologically advanced yachts
Tell us about the history of ARES Yachts
Founded in 2006, ARES has built a solid reputation for its naval, utility, support and unmanned vessels – having delivered over 300 vessels to more than 15 countries to date – and is now looking to expand further into the luxury yachting arena.
Known as one of the largest steel, aluminium and composite boat builders in Europe, in terms of its facilities, ARES Shipyard boasts an enclosed, expansive air-conditioned production area spanning 40,000 square metres, as well as a workforce of over 400 individuals. Primed and ready for custom yacht building, ARES Shipyard also has a total of four hangars and a dedicated furniture factory, with the capacity to build vessels up to 90 metres.
ARES Yachts will also benefit from harnessing its parent company’s exceptional facilities. These include carpentry, composite, metal and electric workshops, all of which are equipped with the latest advanced technology and machinery. The combination of using both this existing production site alongside ARES Shipyard’s skilled workforce gives the newly established yachting brand a major advantage in the construction of custom yachts.
With the official announcement of the ARES Yachts brand taking place in the Monaco Yacht Show’23, ARES has nevertheless been working on yachting projects for some time.
What have been your most notable projects?
62-metre steel-hulled cruising ketch SIMENA is currently in the outfitting stage and progressing rapidly. The project, designed by Taka Yacht Design and Design Unlimited, features a hybrid propulsion system that allows SIMENA to boast a top speed of 14,5 knots and a cruising speed of 11 knots. SIMENA, which will be launched in the summer of 2025, will be showcased at the Monaco Yacht Show, where her cutting- edge design and performance will captivate sailing enthusiasts.
ARES Yachts is also working on the 50.55-metre motor yacht SPITFIRE, with production scheduled to start in 2025. The 499 GT vessel has been designed in collaboration with Lateral Naval Architects and Bannenberg & Rowell Design and represents the natural evolution of BOLD’s proven hull form, thanks to its hybrid propulsion enabling the motor yacht to reach a top speed of over 20 knots.
ARES Yachts has Project Atlas in collaboration with Hot Lab (part of the Viken Group) and Van Oossanen Naval Architects in the pipeline. This is a 54-metre fast displacement explorer motor yacht with a steel hull and aluminium superstructure.
What does the future hold for the yard?
ARES YACHTS will undertake full custom projects up to 90 metres LOA alongside its signature series. From the first lines to the final flourishes of each floating work of art, ARES’ expertise shines through, ensuring that every detail bears testament to the client’s vision.
What are your thoughts on the general industry or business levels and the future?
I would like to say something about the success of the Turkish yacht builders. With a rich tradition of boatbuilding and a skilled workforce proficient in woodworking, metalworking and various crafts, Turkish shipyards benefit from experienced craftsmen and engineers, contributing to the construction of high-quality yachts.
Additionally, the industry stands out for its cost-effective production processes compared to counterparts in Europe, making it an appealing choice for yacht owners seeking quality craftsmanship at a competitive price. Turkey’s strategic location between the Mediterranean and the Black Sea offers convenient access to major cruising destinations, enhancing its attractiveness for yacht owners and builders. The industry’s adaptability to market trends, embrace of innovation in design and technology, and investments in modern infrastructure further contribute to its global competitiveness. Renowned for their flexibility, Turkish yacht builders customise designs according to client preferences, catering to a diverse range of yacht owners.
What are your plans for sustainability?
We’re taking various measures in this regard:
- Demonstrably reducing carbon emissions.
- Enhancing comfort and luxury onboard by reducing local emissions, noise and vibrations.
- Preventing technology obsolescence to adapt to future technologies and maintain asset value.
- Ensuring readiness with commercially available security and technology.
- Determining the value of the fuel system cost-effectively. In this context, prioritising the early evaluation of alternative energy types is key. For example, planning includes using alternative energy sources like methanol, offering pre-installed methanol tanks on boats, and integrating methanol fuel cells and engines throughout the yacht’s lifespan.
Additionally, ARES is among the select few Turkish shipyards to have earned the prestigious Zero Waste Blue Certificate. This certification underscores the company’s dedication to environmental sustainability and responsible waste management. To achieve this distinction, the shipyard implemented a comprehensive zero- waste management system. These initiatives not only minimise the shipyard’s environmental footprint but also contribute to Turkey’s broader efforts in combating marine pollution through the Zero Waste Blue Movement.
What are your plans for future projects and any plans for yard expansion?
Superyacht construction for ARES has been one of the primary goals for a while; however, we will continue to also build military and commercial vessels. We would very much like to preserve and even further develop the multi-disciplinary capabilities of ARES. This is exactly why our mottos are ‘Ideas for Big Blue!’ and ‘Crafting Eternal Moments’.
