Yacht Class n°36 (march-april-may 2024)

Sirena Marine

The Turkish yard Sirena Marine has enjoyed some success over the past five years and this should continue with this Sirena 48. Thanks to her safe and friendly exterior design, her warm and contemporary interiors and her ability to navigate smoothly, she is an invitation to explore the enchanting coastlines.

Written : Christophe Varène – Photos : Jeff Brown

In five years, Sirena Marine, based in Istanbul, can boast of having launched around a hundred vessels, some from 35 to 50 metres-long, with steel hulls and aluminium superstructures. The Sirena Yachts series consists of models from 48 to 88 feet (polyester and composite), with only the 58 available in Coupé. The Cannes Yachting Festival 2023 was the perfect occasion to discover its latest addition, the Sirena 48. Although she has the same exterior and interior designers, Sirena Marine, her hull was designed by a renowned naval architect, German Frers, who has a strong reputation in the sailing world. 

Volume and dynamism

The silhouette of the Sirena 48 is very close to those of her forerunners, with contemporary lines characterised by a verticality that runs from bow to the windshield. To avoid a bulky appearance, the flybridge hardtop is supported by a single central pillar, rather than by the often massive side supports. If the hull, with its significant freeboard, and the superstructures reflect the search for volume for living space, the general appearance is therefore harmonious and rather dynamic. Let’s now get on board via the submersible platform (ideal for the installation of the tender) and take the three steps leading to the cockpit. This exterior space impresses by the sense of security it gives: the two settees facing each other close off the space on the sides and the glazed pulpit, the one towards the stern. Sheltered by the flybridge, this convivial lounge, with a folding coffee table, is in direct communication with the interior. From there, side decks lead to the stern, which offers an immense sunbed with a large headrest. To make the most of this place, there is also a sofa at the bow. In the centre of the starboard side deck is a door with direct access to the wheelhouse, although when open it slightly obstructs this external passageway.

A multifunctional flybridge

Let’s now climb to the flybridge via the stairs. Those are steep but easy to negotiate thanks to handrails. This large terrace has several uses. Aft, the living-dining area includes a U-shaped sofa, two folding tables to facilitate circulation and a kitchenette. The cockpit is centrally located to port, with a bench on starboard. The captain has a clear view of the instrument panel, and all the controls (steering wheel, levers, joysticks) are ergonomically located. Finally, at the front, outside the protection of the hard-top, a sunlounger with surrounding backrests provides a comfortable and relaxing environment. 

A master cabin full of assets

Back on the main deck, a large sliding door leads to the galley, well-placed to connect the outside and inside, and equipped with equipment that would make any chef salivate. Two steps lead to the lounge, very bright thanks to the side windows. Starboard, opposite a storage unit, a lounge area with a comfortable sofa and multipurpose table (high or low, open or folded) allows for more intimate moments. Forward, the wheelhouse is an almost identical copy of the flybridge’s helm station: there is nothing missing and the visibility is almost perfect. Nearby, a few steps lead to the three cabins. The bow volume is devoted to the VIP and offers a large central double bed and a pleasant natural lighting coming through the portholes. Decoration is sober and warm, with plenty of storage space. In the middle, a more humble but equally well finished stateroom offers two single beds. A bathroom is shared by these two cabins and the day guests. With its ideal location amidships, the master has many assets, starting with its abundance of light, subtly assisted by indirect lighting, and its great width. It also has an office, a sofa, a dressing room and an en suite bathroom. The whole has a subtle and enveloping charm.

Smooth cruising

Sailing in the bay of Cannes allowed us to appreciate the comfort of this Sirena 48, which is no doubt due to the talent of German Frers, who designed the hull. Powered by two Cummins QSB 6.7 diesels of 550 hp each, she has a moderate top speed of 21.5 knots, which is more than adequate for a trawler. At a cruising speed of 15-16 knots, the miles flow effortlessly, the tapered bow smoothly negotiating the chop. From the flybridge, the well-designed dashboard and panoramic views make for an easy drive. This indoor position is also ideal when the weather is cloudy. Finally, at 10 knots and with a margin of safety, she has a range of almost 500 miles. The Sirena 48 proves to be the perfect companion for cruising enthusiasts