From its origins in İzmir, Turkey, M.A.T. Sailing Yachts has carved out a significant niche in the global yachting industry, becoming a respected name synonymous with high-performance sailing vessels. Established in 1993, the company has consistently focused on building yachts that excel in both competitive racing and comfortable cruising, earning a strong international reputation over nearly three decades.
The Origin Story
M.A.T. Sailing Yachts was founded in 1993 in İzmir, Turkey, with an initial focus on manufacturing high-performance sailing yachts. While specific details about the founder's personal background or the company's very first boat are not extensively documented in immediate search results, the company quickly established itself as a builder committed to extraordinary performance.
History and Evolution
Over the past 29 years, M.A.T. has evolved into a prominent boat builder, gaining worldwide success. Their growth has been marked by a consistent dedication to creating performance-oriented, cost-effective boats. The company is managed by a team including two ambitious directors, Alp and Cem Somer, who are part of the "MAT family" of skilled craftsmen. M.A.T. has demonstrated a commitment to quality production, with some reviews praising the "finest quality finish" on their yachts. Their manufacturing facility is located in Yelki, İzmir, Turkey.
Design Philosophy and Identity
M.A.T. Sailing Yachts is primarily known for its specialization in high-performance sailing yachts, particularly those designed for racing. They have built a strong reputation for producing vessels that are both competitive on the racecourse and, in some cases, versatile enough for comfortable cruising. Their philosophy emphasizes a combination of speed, responsiveness, and refined handling.
A key aspect of M.A.T.'s identity is their collaboration with some of the world's leading naval architects. Notably, M.A.T. has worked extensively with Mills Design (Mark Mills), producing several successful models. This collaboration highlights their commitment to cutting-edge design and hydrodynamic efficiency, aiming for yachts that perform exceptionally well under various rating rules like IRC.
Iconic Models and Legacy
M.A.T. has developed its own brand with eight innovative models over the years, specializing in high-performance boats for both production and custom builds. They produce one-design racing keelboats, with six models currently in production ranging from 10 to 14 meters.
Some of their most significant and well-known models include:
- M.A.T. 12 (M.A.T. 40): This model has seen considerable racing success, winning events such as the Shop&Miles Bosphorus Cup in the IRC 1 division and the Rolex Fastnet Race in IRC 1B. It is designed as a true dual-purpose IRC Cruiser/Racer, balancing performance with a comfortable deck layout.
- M.A.T. 1070: This model is frequently seen on the used boat market and is a popular choice among performance enthusiasts.
- M.A.T. 1180: This model has gained recognition and has even been ordered for institutional use, with three M.A.T. 1180s delivered to the Turkish Naval Academy. It has also proven successful in various races.
- M.A.T. 1220: This is a more recent design, a collaboration with Mills Design, aimed at a new generation of IRC racers, emphasizing versatility. The first hull of the M.A.T. 1220 for Arkas Sailing Team was launched, indicating its strong racing pedigree.
- M.A.T. 1340: Another prominent collaboration with Mills Design, the M.A.T. 1340 is positioned as an IRC Racer/Cruiser.
M.A.T. yachts have consistently achieved success in various international regattas, including the Marmaris Race Week, Les Voiles de St Tropez, and the Moonsund Regatta.
The Builder Today
M.A.T. Sailing Yachts continues to operate from its base in İzmir, Turkey. While specific details on current ownership beyond the Somer brothers are not publicly detailed, the company maintains a strong presence in the performance yacht market. Their modern boats appeal to sailors who prioritize speed, performance, and responsive handling, whether for competitive racing or spirited cruising. The brand maintains a positive reputation for customer satisfaction, suggesting a strong owner community and positive ownership experience. M.A.T. continues to innovate, as evidenced by newer models like the M.A.T. 1220 and 1340, reinforcing its position as a go-to builder for those seeking high-caliber sailing yachts.
