Reinke Secura Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Reinke Secura are defined by its specialized underwater profile. Most Secura models are equipped with Reinke’s signature "Asymmetric Twin Keels" (Kimmkieler). Unlike traditional bilge keels, these are hydrodynamically optimized to provide lift and reduce leeway when the boat is heeled. According to technical documentation from the Reinke Design Office, this configuration allows the vessel to stand upright on its own keels, making it an ideal choice for tidal waters or remote areas where haul-out facilities are unavailable.

Under sail, the Secura is a heavy-displacement cruiser that favors stability and tracking over light-air agility. It is designed to be a "dry" boat, with high freeboard and a hull shape that sheds water efficiently. While it may lack the acceleration of a fin-keeled racing yacht, it provides a sense of security in a gale that few production boats can match. The rudder is typically protected by a substantial skeg, ensuring that the vessel maintains steerage even in debris-strewn waters or following grounding.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Because many Reinke Securas were finished by owners or small custom shops, the interior layouts vary significantly. However, the design is characterized by a "raised saloon" or pilothouse-style configuration. This provides the crew with excellent visibility while seated and allows for a massive amount of storage and tankage beneath the cabin sole—essential for blue-water autonomy. The Secura typically features a large aft cabin and a V-berth forward, separated by a galley and a navigation station that often serves as an internal steering position in inclement weather.

The Secura is closely related to its siblings in the Reinke "S-series," most notably the Reinke S10 and the larger Reinke S11. While the Secura shares the 10-meter class footprint with the S10, the Secura is often cited as having slightly more volume and a more traditional cruising layout. The interior materials are generally chosen for durability, with many hulls featuring thick insulation to prevent condensation—a critical factor for metal boats operating in cold climates.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers must approach a Reinke Secura with a mindset tailored to metal boat ownership. The primary concern is galvanic and electrolytic corrosion. An inspection by a surveyor specializing in aluminum or steel is mandatory to check for hull thinning or pitting, particularly around through-hull fittings and the stern tube.

Another critical area is the quality of the original build. While professionally built hulls from yards like Benjamins are held in high regard, DIY-built Securas require a rigorous check of the weld quality and the interior cabinetry's structural attachment. Additionally, insulation is a frequent "gotcha" on older metal boats; if the insulation was not applied correctly (leaving gaps where air can reach the cold metal), "sweating" can occur behind the liners, leading to hidden corrosion or mold. Prospective buyers should also verify the age and condition of the standing rigging, as these boats are often subjected to the stresses of high-latitude sailing.

Community & Resources

The Reinke community is deeply rooted in Northern Europe, particularly in Germany. The Reinke-Yacht-Freunde (Reinke Yacht Friends) serves as a primary hub for technical exchange, where owners share modifications for the asymmetric keel systems and advice on maintaining aluminum hulls. Technical drawings and design support for the Secura are still managed by the Reinke family office, ensuring that owners have access to original specifications for refit purposes.

The Verdict

The Reinke Secura is a "workhorse of the sea" intended for the sailor who values the ability to go anywhere and dry out on a tide. It is not a boat for those seeking the glossy finish of a Mediterranean sun-sailer, but for the explorer, it offers a level of ruggedness that is rare in its size class.

Pros:

• Extreme structural durability, especially in aluminum variants.
• Asymmetric twin keels allow for beaching and excellent stability in tidal zones.
• Raised saloon provides superior visibility and massive storage capacity.
• High level of customization and "over-engineered" safety features.

Cons:

• Requires diligent maintenance to prevent galvanic corrosion.
• DIY build quality varies wildly across the used market.
• Heavy displacement results in modest performance in light winds.
• Industrial aesthetics may not appeal to all sailors.