Halit Yukay, founder of Mazu Yachts, is missing after his yacht was found wrecked near Marmara Island. Search and rescue operations are ongoing as the yachting community holds its breath.
The Turkish yachting industry is in shock as the search continues for Halit Yukay, founder and CEO of Mazu Yachts, who has gone missing at sea. His 12.2-meter yacht, Graywolf, was found wrecked and partially submerged off Marmara Island, but no sign of Yukay has been discovered on board.
Yukay departed alone from Yalova Setur Marina on August 4, heading toward Greece. He was last seen on security footage leaving the dock around 15:10. When his family could not reach him later that evening, they contacted the Turkish Coast Guard.
On August 5 at around 14:30, the crew of a passing commercial ship reported sighting a damaged vessel near the Kapıdağ Peninsula. Authorities confirmed it was Graywolf, but Yukay was not aboard.
Since then, Turkish authorities have launched a full-scale search and rescue operation. The mission includes a helicopter, seven surface vessels, and a dedicated diving team. So far, no additional evidence has surfaced. The cause of the yacht’s severe damage remains unknown, and an investigation is currently underway by the Marmara Public Prosecutor’s Office.
The boating community, both in Turkey and internationally, is anxiously awaiting updates. Mazu Yachts is known for its handcrafted, high-performance vessels. Since its founding in 2011, the company has carved out a strong reputation for sleek, custom-designed yachts ranging from 11 to 40 meters.
Halit Yukay was more than just a shipbuilder. He was an innovator, a sailor at heart, and a driving force behind Turkey’s rise in the luxury yacht sector. Starting his journey as a teenage boatbuilder, he went on to lead one of the country’s most admired marine brands. His absence is being felt deeply across the industry.
Mazu’s design philosophy blends strength with elegance. Under Yukay’s leadership, the company pushed boundaries and attracted a loyal international clientele. His disappearance has sent ripples through the yachting world, as clients, colleagues, and friends rally in hope and support.
As of now, the search continues. The boating community remains united, praying for a breakthrough
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