They're the playthings of billionaires, used by names like Bill Gates, Roman Abramovich, and the British Royal Family.
Now, the luxury yachts so beloved of rich listers are gaining recognition for the money they generate for the Turkish economy.
More than US$1.4bn has been generated in the last 20 years from Antalya's Free Zone, the world's third-largest hub for luxury yacht building after Italy and the Netherlands.
Last year, 30 yachts were launched, earning $125m in revenues. Since its inception, 510 super luxury vessels have been constructed by the 50 or so companies operating within the zone.
General manager of Antalya Free Zone Zeki Gurses said Turkish-built yachts have made their way all over the world.
The zone's reputation as a hub for maintenance has also grown, with 142 vessels brought in for maintenance, generating $49m, Gurses said.
While Istanbul's Tuzla district and Bodrum are other critical yacht building centres, the Antalya zone operates under special regulatory conditions aimed to promote exports of goods and services.
Cameron Deggin 
Founder & CEO, Property Turkey
Cameron Deggin is Founder and CEO of Property Turkey. A former finance professional and FCCA-qualified accountant, he founded the company in 2001 after recognising Turkey’s investment potential. With more than two decades analysing Turkish real estate, Cameron regularly advises international investors and is quoted by media including the Financial Times and BBC.
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