Sailing Yacht Simena Is Ares’ Yachts First Launch

Including her bowsprit, the sailing yacht Simena stretches 202 feet (62 meters) end to end. It makes her one of the 25 largest yachts under sail in the world. That in turn makes her an even bigger accomplishment for Ares Yachts, since she’s the shipyard’s first launch.

Based in Turkey, Ares Yachts is a division of Ares Shipyard in the Antalya Free Zone, which dates to 2006. Owned by the Kalafatoğlu family, the yard has delivered upwards of 230 military and commercial vessels internationally so far. Additionally, it has experience in all three construction materials, with more than 450 employees. It can build vessels to 295 feet (90 meters) amid four sheds, too.

As for this first yacht, “Simena blends the elegance of a classic ketch with cutting-edge technology, designed for a true connoisseur,” says Piraye Sahinkaya Orhun, the builder’s yachts projects director. The owner wanted a classically appealing ketch in profile, including traditional trailboards, varnished mahogany trim, and of course teak decks. Supporting this is a steel hull and carbon-composite superstructure. Simultaneously, the yacht Simena relies on hybrid propulsion for transatlantic crossings and repositioning. Specifically, at 11 knots, she should be capable of covering 4,000 nautical miles. Maneuvering from an anchorage to another one a short distance away, meanwhile, likely will be at up to 6 knots, on electric engines only. The hybrid system consists of twin 220-kW electric motors and a 1,183-hp diesel. Further noteworthy, electricity will regenerate while the superyacht is under sail.

The classic-meets-contemporary approach is equally present inside. In working with Design Unlimited, the owner created a comforting ambience for a party of 12. Mark Tucker, Design Unlimited’s creative director, previously has described the look aboard the yacht Simena as “a relaxed and refined sanctuary fit for escapism.’ It comes via walnut woodwork, textured leathers and fabrics in complementary hues, and antiqued brass accents. Modern conveniences like televisions that lift from within cabinetry are aboard as well, while keeping the look authentic and pure. Also authentic—authentically luxurious, that is—marble and patterned tiles characterize the en suite baths.