RMK Yachts has launched the historic steam yacht "Cangarda" after an extensive restoration in Istanbul. The 38-metre-long ship from 1901 was repaired by the shipyard in Istanbul and then transferred to the Rahmi Koç Museum in Haliç. There, the yacht is presented as a permanent exhibit of maritime history.
"From the very beginning, we did not see 'Cangard'a' as a refit project, but as a responsibility towards the global maritime heritage. Our aim was to preserve her spirit, not to reinterpret it," says Cuneyt Okcu, Director of RMK Yachts. The yacht, built in the United States, is considered one of the best-preserved steamships of its era and represents the naval architecture and steam propulsion technology of the early 20th century. Over more than a century, "Cangarda" changed hands several times and underwent various refits.
Conservation instead of modernisation
RMK Yachts' restoration project aimed to preserve the Cangarda's historical integrity while ensuring her structural and mechanical longevity as a museum exhibit. Following her arrival in Istanbul in October 2024, the yacht underwent a carefully planned programme of maintenance, conservation and functional restoration. The work included detailed hull and structural inspections, mechanical and steam system overhauls, interior conservation and repairs, as well as work on rigging, deck equipment and safety systems.
"All interventions were carried out with a museum conservation mindset, not a modernisation approach," explains Okcu. Where technically feasible, original elements were preserved, including Cuban mahogany joinery, brass and bronze fittings, deck fittings, interior layouts and numerous mechanical components.
Steam drive as a technical challenge
Particular attention was paid to the "Cangarda's" steam propulsion system, which represented one of the biggest challenges of the project. The original configuration was retained, but selected components were rebuilt to fulfil safety and operational requirements. Due to the rarity of expertise in early 20th century steam yacht technology, RMK Yachts searched internationally for specialists.
Engineers from Tüpraş, a Koç Holding company and one of Turkey's leading energy groups, provided crucial expertise. Their support made it possible to successfully restore the steam system to its original design. Elements that could no longer be saved were reconstructed using historically correct methods and materials, strictly adhering to the original specifications. The hull and superstructure received protective treatments and repairs that respected the original geometry and design philosophy.
Exhibition at the Rahmi Koç Museum
After the launch, the "Cangarda" was transferred to the Rahmi Koç Museum, one of Turkey's leading institutions for industrial, transport and technical history. The museum in Haliç, one of Istanbul's historic maritime centres, is making the yacht accessible to the public. It serves as a testimony to early steam-powered yachting and is intended to inform and inspire future generations.
A documentary about the history and restoration of the "Cangarda" is currently in production. The publication is planned for 2026 and will provide a detailed insight into the yacht's maritime heritage and craftsmanship.
Lars Bolle
Chief Editor Digital
