17 October 2024
Ares Yachts, part of Ares Shipyard based in Antalya, Turkey, has revealed details of its new 54-metre explorer superyacht concept, Atlas. The yacht is designed to remain under the 500-GT threshold, with features to enhance the experience for both owners and guests. Atlas includes options for hybrid propulsion and other sustainable solutions.
The exterior design, developed by the Italian design studio Hot Lab, combines contemporary styling with efficient naval architecture by Van Oossanen Naval Architects in the Netherlands. “Atlas’s unique features deliver something which is both strikingly styled and strikingly practical for owners and guests,” says Piraye Şahinkaya Orhun, managing director of Ares Yachts. “With her long-range capability and her seaworthy design, she is sure to deliver extraordinary experiences.”
“We have always believed that each project should bring with it some small inventions: this is what we call ‘incremental innovation,’” adds Antonio Romano, business director and co-founder of Hot Lab and commercial director of the Viken Group.
“What is missing in an explorer yacht of around 50 metres? That was the principle behind Atlas.”
One of the notable features is a mezzanine structure at the bow, designed to provide an open view from the owner’s cabin. Another feature is the “welcome lounge” at the stern, which serves as a main saloon and an entrance area, differing from the conventional use of this space as a beach club.
Enrico Lumini, design director and co-founder of Hot Lab, explains: “We thought of creating a mezzanine structure at the bow allowing the owner to have a cabin completely open to the horizon. At the same time, we created what we call the welcome lounge aft – a space that is usually relegated to the secondary role of a beach club.
“On Atlas this is elevated both technically in that it sits above the waterline and metaphorically as it becomes a true main saloon and an entrance and welcome area on board to be enjoyed with friends and family at any time of the day.”
The yacht’s exterior profile is defined by sharp, angular lines, with a solid structure designed to handle various sea conditions.
Outdoor spaces are provided on each deck, including a stern platform for swimming or launching tenders. Upper decks offer lounge areas for relaxation or activities.
Atlas accommodates guests with a full-beam owner’s suite, four guest suites, and crew facilities for nine crew members. The interior, envisioned as modern and minimalist, can be customised according to client preferences. The design features large panoramic windows, neutral colours, and high-quality materials to create a bright and open environment.
The yacht’s performance is supported by a Fast Displacement Hull Form (FDHF) developed by Van Oossanen Naval Architects. This hull design is known for its efficiency, providing Atlas with a projected top speed of 17 knots, a cruising speed of 11 knots, and a range of 5,000 nautical miles. The yacht includes extensive storage for tenders and equipment, as well as an optional touch-and-go helipad. Hybrid propulsion and solar panels are available options to reduce the yacht’s environmental impact.
“This project is a high-performance 54-metre yacht with specific design principles to maximise efficiency, speed, and range while minimising environmental impact,” says Perry van Oossanen, CEO of Van Oossanen Naval Architects.
“Placing the engine room forward realises a grand entrance for guests aft while also allowing for a reduced volume in the aft ship and transom area, which reduces hydrodynamic resistance at cruising speeds – which in turn further increases the yacht’s range, making it even better-suited for long-distance exploration.”
Atlas joins the Ares Yachts line-up alongside the 50.55-metre Spitfire model and the yard’s full-custom projects.
Orhun adds: “We wanted to develop an expedition yacht range and Hot Lab provided us with a stunning explorer superyacht that comes in under 500 gt while also encapsulating the Ares Shipyard’s commercial and naval heritage in her lines.
“The project really does reflect our roots while drawing on the capabilities of our talented shipyard team in steel and aluminium construction with a projected two-year build time. We have a really good feeling about Atlas – we love the project and can’t wait to build it!”