World’s last US steam yacht Cangarda becomes museum treasure in Türkiye

The world’s only surviving U.S.-built steam yacht, the Cangarda, is set to be showcased at the Rahmi M. Koc Museum in Istanbul, Türkiye. With a history spanning 123 years, this extraordinary vessel combines Edwardian opulence with a storied past that has taken it across continents and into the annals of maritime history.

Maritime jewel crafted in 1901

The Cangarda was crafted in 1901 by Pusey & Jones, a prestigious shipyard in Wilmington, Delaware. Commissioned by lumber tycoon Charles Canfield, the 42.1-meter steam yacht debuted as a luxurious masterpiece of its time.

Over the decades, the yacht hosted illustrious figures, including the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII), the British Prime Minister, and the Canadian Prime Minister during a grand dinner party.

Service and survival through turbulent times

During World War II, Cangarda was enlisted as a training vessel for the Royal Canadian Navy. However, the war inflicted significant damage, leaving her in disrepair by the late 19th century.

Despite sinking and falling into neglect, Cangarda was resurrected multiple times through restorations, including major efforts in 1983 and 2004.

Cangarda’s new home in Türkiye

Now owned by Rahmi M. Koc Museum founder Rahmi Koc, the Cangarda has made her journey from Maine, U.S., to Türkiye. Currently undergoing light cosmetic work at RMK Marine, the yacht is being prepared for her role as a museum exhibit.

Yet, according to museum representatives, Rahmi Koc might also use the yacht as a private vessel, maintaining her dual identity as both a historical artifact and a functional steam yacht.

Edwardian elegance meets engineering excellence

The Cangarda was a symbol of Edwardian luxury, boasting Tiffany glass skylights, Cuban mahogany deckhouses, and opulent interiors. It features a smoking room, a separate dining room, four guest cabins, and her original 300-horsepower steam engine, embodying a bygone era of maritime grandeur.

From Delaware to Istanbul: Maritime legend lives on

After surviving a century marked by challenges and transformations, the Cangarda will soon be unveiled to the public in Istanbul.

As both a testament to maritime innovation and a relic of Edwardian elegance, she is poised to become a must-see attraction for visitors to the Rahmi M. Koc Museum.