Italy

Alberto Mercati

<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/293865/image/large-85212ee38176fead49ff9d7dd32e3f0a.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/293865"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/525" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Texas44.6m (146'4&quot;)Proteksan1984">Texas</a>, initially introduced as a 41-metre yacht in 1984 by the Turkish shipyard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan</a> (now known as <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Turquoise Yachts (Company)">Turquoise Yachts</a>), underwent an extension to 44.6-metres by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/496" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sensation Yachts (Company)">Sensation Yachts</a> in Auckland, New Zealand. The yacht was later named Permaisuri before being reacquired by an Australian owner and reverting to her original name, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/525" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Texas44.6m (146'4&quot;)Proteksan1984">Texas</a>. Designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/904" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ugo Costaguta (Company)">Ugo Costaguta</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/858" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alberto Mercati (Company)">Alberto Mercati</a>, with an interior by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/912" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arthur M. Barbeito & Associates, Inc. (Company)">Arthur M. Barbieto</a>, this steel-hulled motor yacht is a frequent visitor to the Australian port of Melbourne, as seen here docked in Pier 35 in Melbourne two weeks ago.&nbsp;

45m superyacht Texas in Melbourne

The 45m superyacht Texas, built by Proteksan, is seen here docked in Melbourne, Australia.

Crafting nautical heirlooms: KRM Yacht Refit & Repair

Navigating through over a decade of meticulous superyacht refits and repairs KRM is exceeding clients expectations. 

Crafting nautical heirlooms: KRM Yacht Refit & Rebuild

The 44.5-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1239" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Costa Magna44.5m (145'12&quot;)Proteksan1983">Costa Magna</a> (ex Belesbat Queen, Galaxy Star) has undergone an extensive refit at the iconic <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2580" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="KRM Yacht Refit & Repair (Company)">KRM</a> shipyard. <a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht Times</a> took a closer look at the superyacht's heritage and learned more about the transformative process of her refit. &nbsp;The owner of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1239" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Costa Magna44.5m (145'12&quot;)Proteksan1983">Costa Magna</a> is a returning client to the Turkey-based <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2580" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="KRM Yacht Refit & Repair (Company)">KRM</a> shipyard after working with the yard ten years ago. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/281575/image/large-52f30675317efbdb577410e2f2f05116.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/281575">“Beyond the boat’s rich history, what truly warms our hearts at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2580" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="KRM Yacht Refit & Repair (Company)">KRM</a> is the return of a valued client. A decade ago, we made a refit to his previous yacht, and now, after he wanted to change her, he once again chose us without hesitation. This gesture means the world to the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2580" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="KRM Yacht Refit & Repair (Company)">KRM</a> family, a testament to our commitment to excellence and dedication. She stood as one of the era’s largest and most remarkable vessels, a shining pinnacle of maritime achievement on a global scale at the time she was being crafted four decades ago by the esteemed Turkish shipyard, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan</a> (<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Turquoise Yachts (Company)">Turquoise</a>). Thus, it is with profound honour that we extend a heartfelt welcome to her, back to her native shores,” said anaging Director Kerem Baser.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/281577/image/large-e45de42e96c65be9e015ffde5e880af6.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/281577"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280852/image/large-bd981680d333060f5424d91e8329bd8e.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280852"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280851/image/large-be2a379c2e2a7778677355b792ec2c04.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280851">Delivered in 1983, the 304 GT motor yacht features a beam of 7.3-metres and a draft of 2.9-metres. Before her refit, the expansive yacht boasted exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/858" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alberto Mercati (Company)">Alberto Mercati</a>, whilst <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vincenzo Ruggiero (Company)">Vincenzo Ruggiero</a> crafted her naval architecture. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1239" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Costa Magna44.5m (145'12&quot;)Proteksan1983">Costa Magna</a> could accommodate up to 10 guests across her five luxurious staterooms, with a full-beam owner’s stateroom on the main deck.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280849/image/large-1d265fca88cf0c8323d878795e73f91f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280849"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/281571/image/large-afe0fd0bb58337fa5348190ac704baa2.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/281571">The refit has included an extensive overhaul of the yacht's interiors and functionality while maintaining the classical elements which make this yacht unique. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2580" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="KRM Yacht Refit & Repair (Company)">KRM</a> has replaced all of the main engines and gensets, modernising the engine rooms to include insulation and replenishing all electrical infrastructures. Other technical enhancements have included replacing the entire piping infrastructure and installing an innovative automation system and navigational equipment systems. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280848/image/large-6f22813574a184fe2f0fca9fd60f1495.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280848">Inside, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2580" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="KRM Yacht Refit & Repair (Company)">KRM</a> has worked with in-house artisans and craftsmen to redesign the interior design of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1239" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Costa Magna44.5m (145'12&quot;)Proteksan1983">Costa Magana</a>, to create a timeless and contemporary aesthetic. This also extends to the crew quarters and all external areas have been replaced with teak decking and a new application of external paint, including filling, fairing, and spraying.&nbsp;The exterior spaces onboard <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1239" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Costa Magna44.5m (145'12&quot;)Proteksan1983">Costa Magna</a> have been redesigned and rebuilt, which include the spaces of the upper deck, transom, and flybridge. Other mentionable changes include the servicing of anchor windlasses, modification of the existing forward crane to increase its capacity, and servicing of the rudder and the propulsion system. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/280847/image/large-374728b93547be92923902a9c82e87cb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/280847">The captain of <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1239" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Costa Magna44.5m (145'12&quot;)Proteksan1983">Costa Magna</a> commented on KRMS excellence throughout the refit princess when saying, “The owner and I were extremely pleased with the exceptional services provided by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2580" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="KRM Yacht Refit & Repair (Company)">KRM Yacht Refit</a>, and we found their level of expertise and trustworthiness truly remarkable. During the refit, we were particularly impressed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2580" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="KRM Yacht Refit & Repair (Company)">KRM’S</a> ability to stick to the initial budget and demonstrated its commitment to excellence by adhering to the initial budget with an astonishing precision of within 3 percent. Their dedication to meeting deadlines was outstanding, completing the 20-week operation within just two weeks of the projected time frame. Throughout the entire refit process, the team leaders from their various in-house workshops provided us with continuous and detailed briefings, ensuring that we were always well-informed. The quality of materials used and the craftsmanship exhibited by their teams exceeded our expectations, leaving us thoroughly impressed.&nbsp;Based on this exceptional experience, we are delighted to entrust <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2580" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="KRM Yacht Refit & Repair (Company)">KRM Yacht Refit</a> with yet another significant project: the full refit of motor Yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1239" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Costa Magna44.5m (145'12&quot;)Proteksan1983">Costa Magna</a>, a magnificent 44.5-metre beauty built by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan</a> İstanbul in 1983. Having embarked on an incredible 40-year worldwide journey, the yacht is now back in İstanbul for an enchanting full refit. We couldn’t be more excited to witness her returning to her roots and shining brighter than ever.” <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/281578/image/large-c738d4990390312d36692fa6868b380b.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/281578">Like this refit project, Following a nine-month period at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/2580" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="KRM Yacht Refit & Repair (Company)">KRM</a>, the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/580" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Newcastle Marine (Company)">Newcastle Marine</a> <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/5334" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Just4Us34.8m (114'2&quot;)Newcastle Marine2001">Just4Us</a> emerged with a newly extended hull, having been lengthened by an impressive 4-metres by the refit and rebuild yard.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.superyachttimes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">SuperYacht Times</a> is following the refit project closely with up-to-date photography and information.&nbsp;

New pictures showcase the 44m Proteksan Costa Magna refit at KRM

The 44.5-metre Proteksan motor yacht Costa Magna (ex Belesbat Queen, Galaxy Star) has undergone an extensive refit at the iconic KRM shipyard. 

The 44.5-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan</a> motor yacht <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1239" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Costa Magna44.5m (145'12&quot;)Proteksan1983">Costa Magna</a> has sold. The sale took place in-house at <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/244" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="IYC (Company)">IYC</a> with Pierre Vezilier representing both the buyer and the seller. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/275846/image/large-229ead28a9b1ed6311efc81c88fadbdb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/275846">Delivered in 1983, the 304 GT motor yacht features a beam of 7.3-metre and a draft of 2.9-metre. The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1239" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Costa Magna44.5m (145'12&quot;)Proteksan1983">Costa Magna</a> boasts exterior design by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/858" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alberto Mercati (Company)">Alberto Mercati</a>, whilst her naval architecture was crafted by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vincenzo Ruggiero (Company)">Vincenzo Ruggiero</a>.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235726/image/large-c6487b9533b7e7a5ca0de85955ff38bb.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235726"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/216688/image/large-851885960baf0076b5ced45d9869aa91.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/216688">The experienced superyacht has traveled widely, cruising the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans. She has undergone 10 refits and is in excellent condition, with her most recent refit consisting of upgrades to her Jacuzzi, generators and stabilisers.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/216686/image/large-384e7cc5912fd80dcfa1814007af19ff.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/216686"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/216685/image/large-d876797499c757bbf4e08e1544c5c544.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/216685"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1239" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Costa Magna44.5m (145'12&quot;)Proteksan1983">Costa Magna</a> can accommodate up to 10 guests across her five luxurious staterooms and even boasts a full-beam owner’s stateroom situated on the main deck. Her staterooms are characterised by their neutral colour palette and timeless design. This elegant aesthetic is most prominent in the main saloon which features stylish, curved tables and plenty of comfortable seating.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235721/image/large-680e9de54f07cb9ce053e4d9c61f7f52.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235721"><img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/235713/image/large-0a0485ecba7f745898a1e34d3eefb429.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/235713">The <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1239" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Costa Magna44.5m (145'12&quot;)Proteksan1983">Costa Magna</a> showcases a steel hull and aluminium superstructure. She offers silent cruising and low fuel consumption, enhancing the travel experience for guests onboard.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/216682/image/large-685fb8b8e31af58996093b33369a92ed.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/216682">In terms of performance, the motor yacht is powered by twin <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/1497" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Detroit Diesel (Company)">Detroit Diesel</a> engines, allowing her a top speed of up to 15 knots and a cruising speed of 12.5 knots. At the time of her sale <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1239" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Costa Magna44.5m (145'12&quot;)Proteksan1983">Costa Magna’s</a> last known asking price was €2,250,000.

Proteksan yacht Costa Magna sold

The 45m Proteksan motor yacht Costa Magna sold with a last known asking price of €2,250,000.

45m Proteksan superyacht Costa Magna sold

Delivering yachts from 40 to 77 metres in length to an international roster of clients from the USA, UK, Europe and Russia, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Turquoise Yachts (Company)">Turquoise Yachts</a> has international recognition as an industry heavyweight. But what is the history of the Turkish yard? Here, we take a look at its predecessor and unravel the brilliance of the builder's backstory. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/171184/image/large-3ee1a3a45f9aa5b5ba81c9313ca0d2ae.png" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/171184">The company’s success today has its roots in two companies involved in yacht building: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan Yachts Inc</a>., based in Tuzla, Istanbul and Turquoise Yacht Construction, also based in Istanbul. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan</a> was the shortened version of the company’s full name – <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Profilo Teknik Sanayi A.S</a>. These two companies joined forces in 1994 to establish Proteksan-Turquoise Yachts and focused on the construction of large motor yachts to a high standard. In 2014, MB Holding, which was founded in 1982 by Omani businessman Mohammed Al Barwani, became the majority shareholder and the company was renamed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Turquoise Yachts (Company)">Turquoise Yachts</a>, with the head office and shipyard based at Pendik, Istanbul.&nbsp;Turning now to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan Yachts</a>, the company commenced building large (for the time) motor yachts in the mid-1970s. In those days, most Turkish-built yachts were wooden gulets built for the charter market in Turkey and Greece.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/172234/image/large-b587da465505431c40b4fa92f00c5cb0.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/172234"><a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan</a> was the first Turkish yard to build in steel, with its first yacht delivered in 1977 following fitting out by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/350" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Picchiotti (Company)">Picchiotti</a> at Viareggio. This yacht, the 32-metre Motivator, was sold to a Middle Eastern owner and renamed Dina A. In 1987, the yacht was sold to a costume jewellery manufacturer and was based in Bangkok until 1992. The yacht, now named <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nomad32.0m (104'12&quot;)Proteksan1977">Nomad</a>, has been home-ported in Tunisia in recent years after her sale by auction in 1998.&nbsp;The next yacht completed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan</a> in 1977 was the 24-metre Kerim which was designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4575" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Paolo Caliari Design (Company)">Paolo Caliari</a> and would later become Boggy C and be painted in battleship grey. The later history of this vessel is unknown at present. Also completed in the same year was the 28.5-metre Milasan, designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4575" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Paolo Caliari Design (Company)">Paolo Caliari&nbsp;</a>and also fitted out in Italy. The yacht was sold to a Middle Eastern buyer following its completion.&nbsp;1983 saw the completion of the 24.4-metre Alize followed a year later by the 41-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/525" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Texas44.6m (146'4&quot;)Proteksan1984">Texas</a>, the largest yacht built so far by the shipyard. This yacht would later be extended to 44.6 metres by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/496" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sensation Yachts (Company)">Sensation Yachts</a> in Auckland, New Zealand.Designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/904" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ugo Costaguta (Company)">Ugo Costaguta</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/858" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alberto Mercati (Company)">Alberto Mercati&nbsp;</a>with an interior by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/912" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arthur M. Barbeito & Associates, Inc. (Company)">Arthur M. Barbieto</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/525" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Texas44.6m (146'4&quot;)Proteksan1984">Texas</a> spent a few years under the ownership of the Sultan of Selangor, Malaysia as Permaisuri before being acquired by an Australian owner and reverting to her original name.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/158752/image/large-3b3e5b154d555a3623fd71d68fd8cd9c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/158752">At around the same time, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan</a> completed the 43.6-metre Galaxy Star for Rene Herzog, the Swiss entrepreneur whose Zurich-based company, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/903" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alucraft (Company)">Alucraft</a>, had been instrumental in the promotion and building of both this yacht and the aforementioned <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/525" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Texas44.6m (146'4&quot;)Proteksan1984">Texas</a>. Galaxy Star was equipped with a stern garage that would initially house a Rolls-Royce when in Europe and a Chrysler when stateside.Another, slightly smaller yacht which was completed in 1986 to a similar design (but without the stern garage) was the 38.1-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/4278" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Big Change II38.13m (125'1&quot;)Proteksan1986">Big Change</a>. The last one completed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan</a> in the 1980s was the first Vals, a 23.8-metre motoryacht designed by Necdet Saldur.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/184734/image/large-9465a4877dd8ec36c6279f22d140280f.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/184734">In the 1990s, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan</a> launched the 33.0-metre Tarabia in 1991 followed by a small series known as the Proteksan 88 model. This sleek design was penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vincenzo Ruggiero (Company)">Vincenzo Ruggiero</a> with interiors by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/264" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="J.G. Verges Design (Company)">Jean-Guy Verges.</a>Three vessels were completed in 1993 and 1994, namely Saga, Vals II and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/8373" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Moontazzam II26.85m (88'1&quot;)Proteksan1994">Dervis III</a> which would be the last yachts to be built under the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan</a> brand name prior to the tie-up with Turquoise in 1997. <img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/110708/image/large-d641ed417b3f60169eafb37e6fb9fbfa.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/110708">This article was first featured in The SuperYacht Times newspaper. <a href="http://www.superyachtcompany.com/newspaper/the-superyacht-times-subscription" target="_blank">Subscribe</a> now to receive your copy straight to your door and never miss another issue.&nbsp;

Turquoise Yachts history: 

SYT's historian Malcolm Wood unpacks Turquoise Yachts' history and their Proteskan merger.

History: Proteksan and Turquoise Yachts on how they came to be

<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Turquoise Yachts (Company)">Turquoise Yachts</a>' success today has its roots in two companies involved in yacht building: <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan Yachts Inc.</a>, based in Tuzla, Istanbul and Turquoise Yacht Construction, also based in Istanbul. <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan</a> was the shortened version of the company’s full name – Profilo Teknik Sanayi A.S.<img src="https://photo-assets.superyachttimes.com/photo/158752/image/large-3b3e5b154d555a3623fd71d68fd8cd9c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/158752">These two companies joined forces in 1994 to establish Proteksan-Turquoise Yachts and focused on the construction of large motor yachts to a high standard. In 2014, MB Holding, which was founded in 1982 by Omani businessman Mohammed Al Barwani, became the majority shareholder and the company was renamed <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Turquoise Yachts (Company)">Turquoise Yachts</a>, with the head office and shipyard based at Pendik, Istanbul.&nbsp;Turning now to <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan Yachts</a>, the company commenced building large (for the time) motor yachts in the mid-1970s. In those days, most Turkish-built yachts were wooden gulets built for the charter market in Turkey and Greece.<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan</a> was the first Turkish yard to build in steel, with its first yacht delivered in 1977 following fitting out by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/350" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Picchiotti (Company)">Picchiotti</a> at Viareggio. This yacht, the 32-metre Motivator, was sold to a Middle Eastern owner and renamed Dina A.In 1987, the yacht was sold to a costume jewellery manufacturer and was based in Bangkok until 1992. The yacht, now named <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/2102" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Nomad32.0m (104'12&quot;)Proteksan1977">Nomad</a>, has been home-ported in Tunisia in recent years after her sale by auction in 1998.The next yacht completed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan</a> in 1977 was the 24-metre Kerim which was also designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4575" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Paolo Caliari Design (Company)">Paolo Caliari</a> and would later become Boggy C and be painted in battleship grey. The later history of this vessel is unknown at present. Also completed in the same year was the 28.5-metre Milasan, designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/4575" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Paolo Caliari Design (Company)">Paolo Caliari</a> and also fitted out in Italy. The yacht was sold to a Middle Eastern buyer following its completion.&nbsp;1983 saw the completion of the 24.4-metre Alize followed a year later by the 41-metre <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/525" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Texas44.6m (146'4&quot;)Proteksan1984">Texas</a>, the largest yacht built so far by the shipyard. This yacht would later be extended to 44.6 metres by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/496" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Sensation Yachts (Company)">Sensation Yachts</a> in Auckland, New Zealand. Designed by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/904" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Ugo Costaguta (Company)">Ugo Costaguta</a> and <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/858" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alberto Mercati (Company)">Alberto Mercati</a> with an interior by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/912" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Arthur M. Barbeito & Associates, Inc. (Company)">Arthur M. Barbieto</a>, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/525" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Texas44.6m (146'4&quot;)Proteksan1984">Texas</a> spent a few years under the ownership of the Sultan of Selangor, Malaysia as Permaisuri before being acquired by an Australian owner and reverting to her original name.At around the same time, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan</a> completed the 43.6-metre Galaxy Star for Rene Herzog, the Swiss entrepreneur whose Zurich-based company, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/903" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Alucraft (Company)">Alucraft</a>, had been instrumental in the promotion and building of both this yacht and the aforementioned <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/525" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Texas44.6m (146'4&quot;)Proteksan1984">Texas</a>. Galaxy Star was equipped with a stern garage that would initially house a Rolls-Royce when in Europe and a Chrysler when stateside.Another, slightly smaller yacht which was completed in 1986 to a similar design (but without the stern garage) was the 38.1-metre Big Change. The last one completed by &nbsp;<a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan</a> in the 1980s was the first Vals, a 23.8-metre motoryacht designed by Necdet Saldur.In the 1990s, <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan</a> launched the 33.0-metre Tarabia in 1991 followed by a small series known as the Proteksan 88 model. This sleek design was penned by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/856" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Vincenzo Ruggiero (Company)">Vincenzo Ruggiero</a> with interiors by <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/264" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="J.G. Verges Design (Company)">Jean-Guy Verges</a>. Three vessels were completed in 1993 and 1994, namely Saga, Vals II&nbsp;and Dervis III which would be the last yachts to be built under the <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/5615" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Proteksan (Company)">Proteksan</a> brand name prior to the tie-up with <a data-gid="gid://syiq/Company/224" href="#managed-by-system" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="Turquoise Yachts (Company)">Turquoise</a> in 1997.&nbsp;

An origin story: Proteksan and Turquoise Yachts

SYT’s in-house yacht historian Malcolm Wood takes a look at the predecessors of one of today’s leading Turkish superyacht builders, Turquoise Yachts.

<img src="/uploads/store/photo/16880/image/large-c904d25867a2e55fe4010db55245b92c.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/16880"> Costa Magna in Monaco Costa Magna was built at the Proteksan shipyard (now Turquoise Yachts) in 1983 to a design by Alberto Mercati and Vincenzo Rugierro. The 44.5-metre Turkish-built motor yacht was previously known as Belesbat Queen and Galaxy Star and reaches a top speed of 14 knots. Available for charter, she is a common sight around the French Riviera and is seen here outside Monaco.Photo by SuperYacht Times

The 45m superyacht Costa Magna at anchor

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/155132/image/large-02dea6ac356efb650d2fef46fa241d34.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/155132">Superyacht Costa Magna in Monaco44.5 meter Costa Magna, seen here arriving in Monaco in May this year, was launched by Proteksan (now Turquoise Yachts) in 1983. Designed by Alberto Mercati Ruggiero, Costa Magna cruises at a comfortable 12 knots, and with special request, with up to 36 guests onboard. She comfortably accommodates up to 10 guests in a large master suite located on main deck, and two double VIP suites and two twin cabins. Her twin Detroit Diesel 887hp engines allows her to reach a top speed of 14 knots in absolute comfort.By Charl van Rooy, photo by Merijn de Waard

Costa Magna arriving in Monaco

<img alt="" src="https://syt-store-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/photo/131904/image/large-d3fd81063b331755ef0ccd4436bf81fb.jpg" data-gid="gid://syiq/Photo/131904">Superyacht Costa Magna off MonacoThe 44.50 metre superyacht <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1239">Costa Magna</a> was built by Proteksan (now Proteksan-Turquoise Yachts) to a design of Alberto Mercati and Vincenzo Ruggiero. The steel hulled motor yacht is powered by twin 867 diesel engines which propel her up to a maximum speed of 14 knots and cruising speed of 12 knots. <a href="#managed-by-application" data-legacy="true" data-gid="gid://syiq/Yacht/1239">Costa Magna</a> is pictured here cruising off Monaco on 18th July 2010.By Merijn de Waard &amp; Photo by Peter Seyfferth