Spark flies
Bilgin’s first launch of 2024 – the 50-metre Bilgin 163 yacht Eternal Spark –has debuted in Istanbul and will premiere at the Monaco Yacht Show.
15 February 2024
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Turkish shipyard Bilgin Yachts has launched the 50-metre Bilgin 163 yacht Eternal Spark from its headquarters at West Istanbul Marina, marking the boatbuilder’s first launch of the year.
“I’m proud of our team’s dedication and the exceptional results achieved,” says İsmail Şengün, CEO at Bilgin Yachts. “Looking ahead, we’re focused on a future of continued success and innovation.”
The yacht features exterior design and naval architecture by Unique Yacht Design and interior decor by Hot Lab. Berkay Yilmaz, the commercial director of Bilgin Yachts, describes the interior of Eternal Spark as modern, luxurious and elegant.
“Eternal Spark itself was everything and more than described in the brochure!” says Yilmaz. “A superbly designed charter vessel, and a great layout with plenty of spaces to enjoy whatever the day delivers.
“She has a sleek, sporty and elegant exterior design with huge exterior space throughout the vessel including a large beach club with a sauna included.”
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“You can spend time in a number of different areas on the yacht for numerous entertainment experiences. I believe she will offer the best experiences to her charter clients and the best charter yacht in the market,” continues Yilmaz.
“She is the most technically equipped 499 GRT yacht, which has similar standards to Bilgin Yachts’ 80-metre superyachts M/Y Tatiana and M/Y Leona.”
Matija Longin, manager of Eternal Spark, reflects on the intricate process of building the vessel. “For nearly three years now, each day has been dedicated to refining and perfecting every aspect of this magnificent creation,” says Longin. “When she finally emerged in the daylight, the experience was truly otherworldly.
“She is so different from any yacht in her class, and we’re very proud of her – this superyacht seeks to satisfy the most demanding cultures, emotions and charter expectations.”
Eternal Spark offers six cabins for twelve guests, 9+1 crew, four decks, five separated bars, and seven divided socialising areas. The vessel can host over a hundred people for stationary events. Other features include a gym, full indoor and outdoor cinema, and a custom-built chase boat.
“Bilgin 163 focuses on the cleanliness of architectural volumes, and a renewed sense for the softness of lines,” says Enrico Lumini, partner and head of design at Hot Lab, describing the interiors as: “a plastic minimalism, sober, but rich in details.”
Noteworthy features of the interior include a full-height round glass wall separating the lobby from the main living room, a floating staircase, a skylight on the sundeck floor, and a chandelier in the main lobby, all designed by Hot Lab.
With twin 1,450 CAT engines, the new Bilgin 163 achieves a top speed of approximately 17 knots.
Eternal Spark is set to debut at the 2024 Monaco Yacht Show.
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