Turkey Ranks Second in the World in Superyacht Production
While ship and yacht exports broke records, Turkey surpassed the Netherlands in superyacht production. Industry representatives pointed out rising costs and tax burdens.
Turkey has risen to second place in the world in the production of superyachts of 24 meters and above, surpassing the Netherlands and following Italy. While ship, yacht, and service exports broke records in 2025, industry representatives draw attention to issues such as rising costs, insufficient marina capacity, and high tax rates.
Global Second Place in Superyacht Production
Turkey has surpassed the Netherlands to rank second in the world in the production of superyachts of 24 meters and above, right behind Italy. Currently, 141 superyacht projects of 24 meters and above are under production in the country.
Export Figures and Employment
The ship and yachting sector, which provides employment to hundreds of thousands of people, holds great importance for the country's economy. Ship, yacht, and service exports broke a record in 2025 by reaching approximately $2.3 billion, and this figure is projected to be surpassed in 2026.
40 Percent Contraction in the Domestic Market
Sales in the domestic market have declined by around 40 percent, and this contraction negatively affects small local businesses producing boats between 5 and 15 meters in particular. The industry's goal is to increase added value rather than production volume.
Insufficient Marina Capacity
While Turkey's total marina berthing capacity is around 26-27 thousand boats, there are approximately 135 thousand boats of various sizes in the country. The current capacity corresponds to one-fifth of the total number of boats.
High Marina Berthing Fees
Marina berthing fees have experienced a very rapid increase over the past five years. In Göcek, the annual square meter berthing price surged from 60 Euros to 450 Euros in 5 years, and the annual marina fee for a 12-13 meter sailboat reached approximately 18-20 thousand Euros.
Tax Burden and the Trend of Foreign Flags
In 2017, the Special Consumption Tax (SCT) on boats was reduced to zero and Value Added Tax (VAT) was lowered to 1 percent. However, an 8 percent SCT and a 20 percent VAT began to be applied again in 2025. Since the VAT is calculated over the SCT-inclusive amount, the total tax burden has reached approximately 29.6 percent, driving consumers to fly foreign flags.
Bosphorus Boat Show Goals
Organized by the Yacht and Boat Industry Association at Ataköy Marina, the Bosphorus Boat Show will take place from October 17-25, 2026. The fair targets 120 companies, around 200 boats, and over 500 brands, alongside 40,000 visitors.