Milanese studio Hot Lab has revealed the first interior images of the 41.9-metre explorer yacht Kaşif, a name which translates to "explorer" in Turkish.
She was the first vessel to emerge from Bilgin Yachts' new Antalya facility in August 2023 and was built for a repeat client of the shipyard, with her owners having "strong maritime shipping connections" (being a captain and an architect).
The vessel marks the eighth collaboration between Bilgin Yachts and Emrecan Özgün of Unique Yacht Design, and follows on from work on the 80-metre Tatiana and Leona and the in-build Bilgin 163 Eternal Spark.
"We quickly realised that the preparation and dedication of the two owners – he a captain and she an architect – would require something more than our usual organisational procedure," explained Enrico Lumini, partner and head of design at Hot Lab. "The entire family is strictly related to the sea and the maritime world, and while the husband oversaw most of the technical matters, his wife collaborated closely with us in creating such a beautiful vessel."
Kaşif is described by Lumini as a "mature yacht" and "one of the most fun and stimulating projects" that the studio has undertaken. He added: "The result is a modern yet timeless aesthetic, seamlessly blending contemporary geometries with elements reflecting the owners' passions."
Accommodation is configured as a large owner's cabin on the main deck with three VIP suites and two twin cabins. Pastel hues are used for the lower deck cabins (obtained through the used of dyed wood), while the main saloon boasts a rich burgundy palette and lacquering. "The upper deck saloon exudes a masculine elegance, showcasing a layout that caters to comfort and relaxation," Lumini added.
The yacht also serves a dual purpose for the owners' business in offshore fish farming, requiring a vessel that is safe for travel to their farms situated at least 3 miles from the coastline. Kaşif, therefore, has a 5,000+ nautical mile range befitting an explorer-style yacht.
"It was our first time working together with the owners of this yacht, and hopefully it won’t be the last," added Antonio Romano, commercial director of The Viken Group and co-founder of Hot Lab. "They are a beautiful young couple and I wish them all the success to build many more vessels in their future."
According to BOATPro, Bilgin Yachts has nine yachts currently under construction. The shipyard's red-hulled, 80-metre Leona was recently announced as a BOAT International Design & Innovation Award winner.
Read More/The winners of the BOAT International Design & Innovation Awards 2024 revealed