Ares Yachts launches 62m flagship sailing yacht Simena

Turkish yard Ares Yachts has launched its new flagship, the 62-metre sailing yacht Simena, from its facilities in Antalya. 

Built to RINA Class C in steel–carbon composite with lines owed to Taka Yacht Design, the ketch has been inspired by a "gentler age of sail" and is loosely modelled after a clipper ship. This is seen best in the bow, with its full-rigged bowsprit and trail board. Simena will make her official world debut at the Monaco Yacht Show 2025.

Simena features traditional teak decks and varnished Sipo mahogany exteriors. Her name is a nod to the centuries of maritime heritage located within the ancient Turkish city. 

Osman Tanju Kalaycıoğlu, naval architect and owner of Taka Yacht Design said: "I would describe her exterior design as 'classic with character.' Although clipper ships were an effective inspiration for her styling details, the DNA of her hull shape comes from our previous successful wooden ketch designs."

The walnut and neutral colour palette encompasses tonal textured leathers and fabrics peppered with antiqued brass accents. Elsewhere, the yacht's en suites feature patterned tiles, Calcutta Oro and Patagonia White marbles.

Thanks to Design Unlimited, her classical foundation is contrasted with contemporary interiors, showcasing "clean, relaxed geometry." Mark Tucker, creative director of Design Unlimited describes her as "a relaxed and refined sanctuary, fit for escapism and the entertaining of family and friends when required."

To align with this "golden era of yachting", modern comforts have been covertly included to maintain clean, clear visuals, such as television lifts within the owner's suite and saloon. 

Accommodation is for up to 12 guests, with configurations displayed in three double and two twin cabins. A separate owner's cabin is located forward on the main deck with highlights such as a dressing room, lounge sofa and a Jacuzzi accessed on the bow. There is additional space for up to nine crew.

Powered by 220kW electric motors (that can be supplemented by an 882kW diesel engine), Simena is expected to reach a top speed of 15 knots and achieve silent operations at up to six knots. She will also be equipped with an electronic remote-control system for propulsion, with controllable pitch propellers – "very user friendly, highly accurate, advanced and flexible with six modes," explained Ares Yachts' projects manager Piraye Sahinkaya Orhun.

The sailing yacht is listed for sale with Northrop & Johnson.

Also currently under construction at Ares Yachts is the 50-metre Spitfire and 54-metre explorer yacht, Project Atlas.