Turkish shipyard Ares Yachts has collaborated with Dutch studio Mulder Design on a 70-metre custom yacht project known as Opal. The hull is being built on spec at Ares' facilities in Antalya with an estimated delivery of 36 months.
Project Opal is characterised by clean, organic lines that "work in harmony with the marine environment rather than screaming for attention," according to studio owner Bas Mulder. The yacht is also based on Mulder's proven hull form, which can increase speed by up to 30 per cent depending on the engine package selected. Key numbers include a 13-metre beam, a draft of 3.15 metres and a volume in excess of 1,400GT.
The layout features "trademark Mulder Design elements", including flared bulwarks on the upper deck which create an expanded exterior area around the owner's suite. The provisional configuration also has a guest skylounge on this level, though the entire space could be dedicated to a private owner's area with cockpit lounge. The remaining six guest cabins are found on the main deck, alongside the saloon and formal dining area which leads out to a multi-zone aft deck with a bar, al fresco dining and lounge area.
Meanwhile, the top deck houses the wheelhouse and captain's cabin, alongside a sundeck area and access to a hidden observation deck in front of the mast, complete with a spa pool. Guests will also benefit from a beach club with glass doors, connected to a large transformer platform. A transverse garage stores the yacht's tenders and toys, while the foredeck can double as a touch-and-go-helipad.
"This will be a one-off project, and what makes it extra special is the fast delivery time thanks to our experience as a large shipyard and our sterling reputation," said Şahıṅ kaya Orhun, managing director at Ares Yachts. "We estimate four months for finalising the GA and the superstructure architecture, and 32 months to complete the build, which is an exceptional delivery time for a custom 70-metre project. It will be built to commercial specification and there is potential for various propulsion options, including Voith Linear Jets if performance in the mid-20-knot range is required, or hybrid and even full electric propulsion packages."
"The combination of advanced hull naval architecture and contemporary superstructure with Ares Yachts’ capability to deliver the highest standards of construction and finish makes this the perfect yacht for effortless, efficient cruising in understated luxury," Mulder added. "We think a lot of people will be excited by the project, and we are looking forward to meeting with prospective clients and to building the yacht of their dreams."
Ares Yachts' flagship is also currently under construction in Antalya, with delivery confirmed for next year.
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