The extra-long-range, explorer-style Kando series of megayachts from AvA Yachts is growing. The latest project is the Kando 130XL, so-named for an elongated aft deck that can serve a multitude of purposes.
Based in the Antalya free-trade zone in Turkey, AvA Yachts began as a naval architecture and engineering firm in 2005. In fact, it developed various designs, ranging from motoryachts and sailing yachts to traditional Turkish gulets as well as passenger ships. It decided to build its own designs, however, in more recent years, therefore becoming a shipyard. Because the management team believes there’s a good market for full-displacement, long-range yachts, the Kando series resulted. The first model, the Kando 110, debuted in 2019.
Similar to that and other models, the Kando 130XL is an entirely in-house design, with customer input, of course. Atilla Küçükdiker, AvA Yachts’ chairman and founder, says the project evolved from many discussions with “a very good customer who knows exactly what he wants.” Measuring 128 feet (39 meters), the steel-and-aluminum yacht should see more than the usual range for her size category, for instance. AvA Yachts pledges she’ll exceed 6,000 miles at 11 to 12 knots under Cummins power.
That affords abundant adventures for a party of 12 to enjoy. Their accommodations specifically include a main-deck VIP suite and upper-deck master. The master has a private alfresco area aft, too, and both suites have dressing rooms as well. Yet another feature is a gym aft of the VIP. The crew—up to seven hands—get cabins forward below deck, meanwhile, with the captain’s cabin near the wheelhouse.
As stated, the “XL” in Kando 130XL refers to the extended aft deck. While AvA Yachts has not said what this owner plans, overall the area can be a few different things. For example, clients can dedicate it to tender and toy stowage. Or, they make it an indulgent leisure area with a big infinity pool. Yet another possibility is a super-size beach club.
“We are confident that she will be our next build after the much-awaited launch of Infinity Nine, hull number two of the Kando 110 series,” Küçükdiker comments. Infinity Nine belongs to former NBA superstar Tony Parker.
The 130XL will meet Bureau Veritas classification standards and take 24 months to build.
AvA Yachts avayachts.com
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