The rhythmic sound of a motor reaching your ears as you walk along the shores of Bodrum is not just the progress of a boat; it is the echo of a history, a culture, and lives dedicated to the sea. Today, we stand alongside one of the most elegant representatives of that sound: ‘YAŞAT’—a vessel that brings the ancient Bodrum piyade form to life with modern mastery.
The Hand of a Master, The Signature of a Culture ‘
YAŞAT’ is more than just a wooden hull gliding over the water; it is a masterpiece of true craftsmanship. This special piyade boat emerged in 2018 from the shipyard of Mustafa Özkeskin, a master of the tirhandil tradition known in the maritime community by the nickname ‘Hacı.’ Serving as concrete proof of how traditional lines can be transformed into works of art by master hands, ‘YAŞAT’ proudly bears the signature of Master Mustafa.
Form and Elegance: The Anatomy of ‘YAŞAT’
With a length of 8.15 meters and a width of 2.50 meters, ‘YAŞAT’ is one of the most balanced examples of the ideal piyade form. These dimensions make her both an agile sailor and grant her unique maneuverability within Bodrum’s narrow bays and sometimes unruly waters. This technical perfection, combined with the warmth of the wood, completes the soul of the boat.
Keeping the Maritime Culture Alive with Cem Ertuğ
The name responsible for keeping this unique vessel in the spotlight and giving it the value it deserves is Cem Ertuğ. For Mr. Ertuğ, the sea is not just a hobby; it is a way of life that must be protected, narrated, and passed down to future generations. Through his active presence on Instagram, he carries the elegance of piyade boats and Bodrum’s maritime values from the waters of the Aegean into the digital world. Cem’s vision is clear: Remember and Revive. The spirit of that first nail driven by Master Mustafa Özkeskin today grows and flourishes through Cem Ertuğ’s profound love for the sea.
Why Must We Protect This Heritage?
In defiance of the mass production of modern boats, protecting the soul of wood, the labor of a master’s hand, and the classic silhouette of the Aegean is not a choice—it is a duty. Every time ‘YAŞAT’ weighs anchor, she greets us with the true identity of Bodrum. If you look toward the deep blue not just for speed, but to rest your soul and witness a genuine maritime culture, follow the story of ‘YAŞAT’ and Cem Ertuğ’s efforts to keep this heritage alive. Because this story is our collective legacy.
