Salona 60 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The design pedigree of the Salona 60 is rooted in Jason Ker’s experience with America’s Cup yacht design, which is immediately evident in the hull’s slippery, low-drag lines and high righting moment. According to technical documentation found via NauticExpo, the yacht carries a substantial ballast-to-displacement ratio with approximately 7,000 to 8,000 kg of lead situated in its keel, allowing it to stand up to its massive sail plan. With a close-hauled sail area exceeding 200 square meters, the boat is remarkably powerful in light air, yet the Ker-designed hull remains balanced and predictable as the wind increases.

Under sail, the twin-wheel configuration provides the helmsman with excellent visibility and a direct, tactile feel, a rarity for a vessel with a displacement of 24,000 kg. For those seeking maximum versatility, the model was offered with multiple keel configurations, including a performance-oriented 3.5-meter draft and a sophisticated lifting keel option that reduces the draft to 2.5 meters for accessing shallower anchorages. Anecdotal evidence from early sea trials suggests that the boat tracks exceptionally well, benefiting from a high-aspect rudder that maintains grip even at high heel angles. The option for a self-tacking jib further simplifies short-handed handling, making the 60 manageable for a couple despite its imposing size.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Salona 60, styled by the AD Boats design team, emphasizes a "clear communication with the environment," utilizing large hull windows and expansive deck hatches to flood the living spaces with natural light. As a semi-custom yacht, the layout was often tailored to the owner's specifications, though the most popular configuration includes a four-cabin, three-head arrangement. The master suite, typically located in the bow, offers a "superyacht" feel with island berths and extensive storage, while the use of natural wood finishes—often oak or teak—creates a contemporary yet warm aesthetic.

Shared features across the flagship and its smaller siblings, such as the Salona 44 and the performance-heavy Salona 38, include a focus on functional ergonomics at sea. On the 60, this manifests in a professional-grade galley equipped for long-range cruising and a saloon that remains open and airy. The "Comfort Package" often seen on this model introduced high-end amenities such as a 230V generator, reverse-cycle air conditioning, and a hydraulic gangway, positioning the boat firmly in the luxury cruising category.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a pre-owned Salona 60 should focus their inspection on the sophisticated systems required to manage a yacht of this scale. While the stainless steel internal frame provides exceptional structural integrity, it is essential to verify the condition of the connections between the frame, the hull laminate, and the keel bolts.

• Lifting Keel Mechanism: On models equipped with the lifting keel, the hydraulic rams and sensors should be scrutinized for leaks or "creep," as these systems are subject to significant stress and require specialized maintenance.
• Hydraulic Systems: The yacht utilizes hydraulics for the backstay, vang, and often the boarding gate. A thorough check of the seals and fluid levels is necessary to avoid costly "at-sea" failures.
• Rigging Loads: Given the performance orientation of the Jason Ker design, many 60s were campaigned in regattas. A professional mast-out survey is recommended to check for fatigue in the standing rigging and at the chainplate attachments to the internal frame.
• Electrical Complexity: The high-end comfort features (AC, watermakers, and bow thrusters) rely on a complex 24V/230V system. Buyers should ensure that the battery banks are healthy and that the charging systems can handle the heavy loads of a "push-button" sailing environment.

Community & Resources

The Salona owner community is centered around the brand’s performance-driven philosophy, with many owners participating in Mediterranean regattas. While the Salona 60 is a rarer flagship model, technical support is often facilitated through the Salona Yachts official network and the Croatian builder, AD Boats Ltd. Owners typically engage through regional sailing associations and performance-cruising forums to share knowledge on optimizing the Ker-designed hull for specific racing rules like ORC or IRC.

The Verdict

The Salona 60 is a rare find on the brokerage market—a yacht that successfully marries the raw speed of an America's Cup designer with the finish and volume of a luxury cruiser. It is an ideal choice for the experienced sailor who refuses to sacrifice performance for comfort.

Pros:

• Exceptional Performance: One of the fastest cruisers in its class thanks to Jason Ker’s hull design.
• Structural Integrity: The stainless steel internal frame offers a level of stiffness and safety rarely found in production yachts.
• Semi-Custom Luxury: High-end finishes and flexible layouts provide a personalized yachting experience.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Sleek, modern lines that have aged gracefully since its 2012 premiere.

Cons:

• System Complexity: Requires a high level of maintenance for its hydraulic and electrical systems.
• Draft Sensitivity: The performance keels limit access to many cruising grounds unless the lifting keel version is selected.
• Crew Requirements: While "manageable" for two, its size and power are best handled by a knowledgeable crew in challenging weather.