Η MK Marine has officially begun construction of a new shipyard dedicated exclusively to yacht building in Yalova, just outside Istanbul. Spanning 70,000 square metres and located directly on the waterfront, the new facility is designed to become a major hub for yacht production in Türkiye, combining advanced technical infrastructure with a strong focus on sustainability and architectural innovation.
With this strategic investment, RMK Marine is restructuring its production capabilities. The existing Tuzla facilities will focus entirely on commercial and military shipbuilding, while the new Yalova yard will be dedicated to the RMK Yachts division, significantly expanding the company’s presence in the global megayacht market.
The relocation to the new RMK Yachts Yalova Shipyard is expected to begin in the final quarter of 2026, with full operational capacity scheduled for 2027.
A holistic approach to yacht construction
The new shipyard has been designed specifically around the unique demands of yacht building, where craftsmanship, engineering precision and aesthetic excellence must work in perfect harmony.
From architectural layout and production flow to logistics and working environments, every aspect of the facility has been developed through a fully integrated design approach aimed at maximizing efficiency while supporting the creative process behind yacht construction.
“The true value of a shipyard is not defined by its machinery, but by the intellect, craftsmanship and creativity it produces,” said Cüneyt Okcu, Director of RMK Yachts, describing the philosophy behind the new facility.
Beyond production areas, the campus has been envisioned as a space where culture, innovation and craftsmanship intersect. The development will include modern offices inspired by maritime heritage, advanced workshops and hangars, as well as extensive social facilities such as gyms, cafes, training areas and guest suites for owners and partners.
The shipyard will also feature a yachting museum developed in collaboration with the Rahmi M. Koç Museum, alongside docking and marina services covering approximately 5,000 square metres, created in partnership with Setur Marina.
Sustainability at the core
Sustainability plays a central role in the development of the new facility. Designed in line with LEED certification standards, the shipyard integrates renewable energy use, environmentally responsible production methods and low-carbon operational principles.
The project aims to create a future-ready production campus that addresses both current industrial needs and long-term environmental responsibilities.
Advanced infrastructure
The new RMK Yachts shipyard will include:
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Three 30 x 120 metre hangars dedicated to new-build yacht projects
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Two refit hangars measuring 40 x 80 metres and 35 x 55 metres
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A 10,000-square-metre open refit area
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700 metres of quay length for operational flexibility
Two travel lifts with capacities of 720 tonnes and 320 tonnes will support launch and haul-out operations, while a floating dock capable of handling yachts up to 150 metres will further expand the yard’s capabilities.
Construction is being carried out by Ark İnşaat, a company within Koç Holding.
According to RMK Marine CEO Dr. Utku Alanç, the investment reflects a long-term strategic vision:
“With this new project, our Tuzla facilities will focus entirely on commercial and military shipbuilding. Through two specialized production hubs, we aim not only to increase capacity but also to establish distinct and deeply specialized production cultures.”
With the new Yalova shipyard, RMK Yachts aims to strengthen its position in the international yacht market while setting a new benchmark for sustainable and technologically advanced yacht production.
