Picture this: a majestic 40-meter yacht crafted from wood, blending tradition with modern luxury, and setting sail into a world where sustainability meets opulence. The Boa Kingdom isn't just another boat—it's a bold statement on what yachting could be. But here's where it gets intriguing: in an industry obsessed with speed and sleek composites, this vessel dares to embrace the warmth and resilience of timber. Dive in with us as we explore the launch of this remarkable motorsailer, and discover why it might just redefine the seas.
Hailing from the picturesque Bodrum region in Turkey, the shipyard BOA Yachts has proudly unveiled its inaugural creation: the 40-meter wooden motorsailer dubbed Boa Kingdom. You can check out more details on her profile at Boat International (https://www.boatinternational.com/yachts/the-superyacht-directory/boa-kingdom--15155). Following her launch, she's been moved to a secure hardstanding area where the sails will be fitted, paving the way for her upcoming sea trials to ensure everything performs flawlessly.
This yacht adheres strictly to RINA Class standards, which are like the gold seal of approval for maritime safety and quality—think of it as the yachting equivalent of a top safety rating for cars. As BOA Yachts' first project, it represents the new-build division of SCA Yachting, a well-established firm renowned for its yacht chartering and refurbishment expertise. Once fully delivered, Boa Kingdom will be primed for charter adventures across the stunning Mediterranean and Aegean seas, offering guests unforgettable voyages (explore charter options at https://www.boatinternational.com/charter).
The design genius behind her naval architecture comes from Fuat Turan (learn more about him at https://www.boatinternational.com/profiles/fuat-turan--17255), and this bespoke 345-gross-ton vessel was meticulously constructed at Çavuşoğlu Shipyard. This yard specializes in wood epoxy laminate techniques, which combine the natural beauty of wood with modern resins for enhanced durability—perfect for beginners to understand as a hybrid method that marries tradition with innovation.
And this is the part most people miss: the deliberate choice of wood. 'We opted for wood in building Boa Kingdom due to its exceptional resistance to fatigue, which guarantees a long lifespan,' explained SCA Yachting's founder, Cenk Avdan. 'Moreover, it's the most eco-conscious material available and poses no risks to the well-being of those aboard. At SCA Yachting, we're committed to championing wood as our preferred choice moving forward.' For those new to yachting, fatigue resistance means the material can withstand repeated stresses from waves and weather without cracking, unlike some alternatives that might wear out faster.
On board, Boa Kingdom comfortably accommodates up to 12 guests, with space for a crew of seven to ensure seamless service. The interior was crafted in-house, working hand-in-hand with the owner—a savvy Turkish entrepreneur—to reflect his personal vision. But here's where it gets controversial: in today's yachting scene, where flashy fiberglass and carbon fiber often steal the spotlight for their lightweight speed, is wood truly the superior pick? Some argue it's outdated and less efficient, while others hail it as a sustainable hero. What do you think—does prioritizing longevity and eco-friendliness outweigh the allure of cutting-edge composites?
Outdoor living is a highlight, with an impressive 345 square meters of deck space designed for relaxation and fun. Imagine lounging on a 16-square-meter swimming platform for easy water access, or unwinding on the expansive 84-square-meter flybridge with panoramic views. Even better, there's a Jacuzzi perched on the bow for those serene sunset soaks—ideal for entertaining or simply basking in the sea breeze.
Under the hood, twin 550-horsepower Volvo engines power this beauty, allowing her to hit a top speed of 15 knots and cruise comfortably at 12 knots. For context, knots measure nautical speed, roughly equivalent to miles per hour on land, so she's built for both thrilling dashes and leisurely journeys.
Take a peek at some early renderings of Boa Kingdom to get a visual sense of her elegance.
'In a yachting era where rapid pace often overshadows depth, we prioritize authenticity—in our designs, materials, and aspirations,' shared BOA Yachts founder Özkan Arseven. 'Constructing a yacht transcends mere extravagance; it's about forging a lasting heritage.' We're thrilled to witness Boa Kingdom embarking on her maiden voyage toward the ocean, embodying our technical prowess and unwavering ethos.'
As a bespoke, private project, additional specifics about Boa Kingdom remain confidential for now.
There you have it—the story of Boa Kingdom, a yacht that challenges conventions and invites us to ponder the future of maritime luxury. Is wood the unsung champion of yacht building, or should we embrace faster, synthetic materials? And in an age of environmental awareness, does this choice set a precedent for the industry? We'd love to hear your take—do you agree with prioritizing sustainability over speed, or is there a better path forward? Drop your thoughts in the comments below and let's spark a conversation!