The 62-metre sailing yacht “Simena”, built by Turkish shipyard ARES Yachts, has received RINA RIG Gold certification for its ketch rig. According to the classification society, it is the largest sailing yacht to have received this certification to date.
The certification was issued under RINA’s Rules for the Certification of Sailing Rigs and covers rig design approval, mast manufacturer workshop approval, mast stepping, sea trials and approval of the rig booklet. It confirms compliance with the relevant RINA requirements and the REG Yacht Code 2024.
The yacht’s masts were stepped and tuned in Antalya in August 2025 under the supervision of RINA surveyors. Rig sea trials subsequently took place in the Gulf of Antalya between 28 January and 4 February 2026. Different sail configurations were tested to assess the rig’s performance under sailing conditions.
“Simena” features a 59.7 m aluminium main mast and a 48.9 m mizzen mast. The main mast weighs approximately 12.9 t, increasing to 16.6 t including furlers and rod rigging, while the mizzen mast weighs around 6.2 t.
The yacht carries 1,588 m² of upwind sail area supplied by Doyle Sails and has reportedly reached speeds of approximately 14 kn under sail in favourable conditions.
“SIMENA represents the culmination of years of engineering, planning and collaboration across multiple disciplines. Delivering a sailing yacht of this scale requires not only technical expertise, but also the ability to integrate complex systems and coordinate specialist teams throughout design, construction and commissioning. This certification is a significant milestone for ARES Yachts and a reflection of the dedication and expertise of everyone who contributed to bringing SIMENA to life,” said Piraye Şahinkaya Orhun, Yacht Projects Director at ARES Yachts.
Alper Tek, Head of Türkiye Yachting & Plan Approval at RINA, said: “Simena’s rig is a significant example of how advanced engineering, innovative yacht construction techniques and rigorous verification processes can push the boundaries of modern sailing yacht design. Through the certification process, RINA has contributed to verifying the project’s compliance with the applicable requirements, highlighting the technical complexity of a project of this calibre.”
“Simena” also receives Blue Wake Award
The sailing yacht also received the 2026 Blue Wake Special Jury Award at the Monaco Yacht Show, presented in partnership with the Water Revolution Foundation. In addition, it has been awarded a Four Star SEA Index rating verified by Lloyd’s Register.
“Simena” was built by ARES Yachts in Antalya, with naval architecture and exterior design by Taka Yacht Design and interiors by Design Unlimited.
The yacht is currently offered for sale exclusively through Northrop & Johnson.
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