RMK Yachts Revives Historic Steam Yacht Cangarda Following Major Restoration

RMK Yachts Revives Historic Steam Yacht Cangarda Following Major Restoration

RMK Yachts has successfully launched the historic 38-metre steam yacht Cangarda after an extensive restoration at its state-of-the-art Istanbul shipyard. The yacht has now been transferred to the Rahmi Koç Museum in Haliç, Istanbul, where she will serve as a permanent centrepiece, celebrating over a century of maritime heritage and engineering excellence.

“From the very beginning, we approached Cangarda not as a refit project, but as a responsibility toward global maritime heritage. Our goal was to protect her spirit, not reinterpret it,” said Cuneyt Okcu, Director of RMK Yachts.

Originally built in 1901 in the United States, Cangarda is widely regarded as one of the finest surviving steam yachts of her era. Designed during the golden age of yachting, she represents a rare example of early 20th-century naval architecture and steam propulsion, combining elegant lines with advanced engineering for her time. Over more than a century, Cangarda has passed through multiple owners and undergone several refits, each adding to her remarkable story.

A Museum-Grade Restoration

RMK Yachts approached the restoration with a focus on historical integrity, ensuring structural and mechanical longevity while maintaining authenticity. Following her arrival in Istanbul in October 2024, Cangarda underwent a carefully planned program of maintenance, conservation, and functional reinstatement. Work included detailed hull and structural inspections, overhauls of mechanical and steam systems, interior conservation, and updates to rigging, deck equipment, and safety systems.

“All interventions were carried out with a museum-grade conservation mindset rather than a modernisation approach,” Okcu explained. “Wherever technically feasible, original elements were preserved, including Cuban mahogany joinery, brass and bronze fittings, deck outfitting, interior layouts, and numerous mechanical components.”

Elements beyond repair were meticulously reconstructed using historically accurate methods and materials, strictly adhering to the original specifications. Protective treatments and repairs were applied to the hull and superstructure, preserving the yacht’s geometry and character while ensuring long-term structural integrity.

Preserving Steam-Powered Heritage

Particular attention was given to Cangarda’s steam propulsion system, one of the project’s greatest technical challenges. While preserving the original configuration, selected components were rebuilt to meet modern safety and operational standards. Specialist support was sourced internationally, with critical expertise provided by engineers from Tüpraş, a Koç Holding energy company, enabling the steam system to be restored in line with its original design.

The restoration balanced authenticity with responsibility, ensuring historical fidelity alongside long-term preservation. Brass and bronze accessories were carefully conserved, and the interior was treated as a living document of its era, with original furniture, finishes, materials, and spatial arrangements preserved.

A Historic Showcase in Istanbul

After her launch, Cangarda was transferred to the Rahmi Koç Museum, one of Türkiye’s leading institutions dedicated to the history of industry, transport, and engineering. Situated in the historic maritime hub of Haliç, the yacht will be open to the public, serving as a living testament to early steam-powered yachting. A documentary detailing Cangarda’s journey and restoration is set to be released later in 2026, offering viewers an in-depth look at the yacht’s heritage and craftsmanship.

With the successful revival of Cangarda, RMK Yachts demonstrates its expertise not only in constructing cutting-edge modern yachts but also in the meticulous restoration of historically significant vessels to the highest international standards.