Yacht Charter in the Istanbul Bosphorus Strait

Istanbul's Bosphorus Strait is a beautiful and historic narrow waterway that connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara. Also this historical strait separates the European and Asian sides of the city and makes yacht charter an unforgettable experience for the boaters and for all the visitors.

What should be expected from an Istanbul Bosphorus yacht charter?

An Istanbul Bosphorus yacht charter is expected to provide a private yacht rental service for a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus strait, offering views of iconic landmarks such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Bosphorus Bridge. The yacht may include amenities such as a captain and crew, food and drinks, and entertainment options. The duration and cost of the charter can vary depending on the specific package and company and also the yacht hired.
There are a variety of yachts available for hire, ranging from small motor boats to luxurious superyachts. Whether you are looking for a romantic evening cruise, a family outing, or a corporate event, there is a yacht to suit your needs.

Renting a yacht in Bosphorus Strait step by step

The first step in renting a yacht in Istanbul is to determine what type of yacht you need. If you are planning a romantic evening cruise, a smaller boat with a few amenities may be sufficient. If you are hosting a larger event or corporate function, a larger yacht with more amenities will be necessary.
Once you have decided on the type of yacht you need, the next step is to choose a rental company. It's important to choose a reputable company that offers well-maintained yachts and professional crews.
Most yacht rental companies in Istanbul offer a range of packages, from short day trips to longer multi-day charters. They can also help you plan your itinerary, including stops at popular landmarks and waterfront restaurants. If you have any special requests or requirements, such as catering or entertainment, be sure to discuss them with the rental company in advance so that they can make the necessary arrangements.

What is the best time to charter a yacht in Bosphorus

The best time for chartering a yacht in Istanbul Bosphorus Strait is during the spring and autumn months, which are generally from April to mid-June and from September to mid-November.
During these months, the weather is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 °C (59 to 77 °F), making it comfortable for sailing and sightseeing. In the summer months of July and August, the weather in Istanbul can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures sometimes reaching up to 35 °C (95 °F) or higher. In the winter months, from December to March, the weather in Istanbul can be cold and rainy, with temperatures ranging from 5 to 15 °C (41 to 59 °F). While it is still possible to charter a yacht during this time, the weather conditions can be less predictable and may not be ideal for enjoying the outdoor activities.

Structure of the Bosphorus

The approximate length of the Bosphorus is 17 nautical miles. The widest part of the Bosphorus is 1500 meters wide and the narrowest part is 700 meters wide. There is an increase in greenery and forested areas as you move towards the Black Sea. Three bridges connecting the continents of Europe and Asia are located on the Bosphorus. These gigantic bridges are also must-see structures that make the Bosphorus cruise more interesting.

Traffic Pattern in the Bosphorus

Two-way vessel traffic is prohibited for the big ships in the Bosphorus for security reasons. While it is usually opened to one-way traffic from south to north in the morning hours, it is opened to traffic for ships coming from the north towards the afternoon. In addition, ships navigating in the strait are prohibited from passing each other unless it is compulsory, as per the regulations.
For the safety of navigation in the strait, sailing yachts and boats are prohibited from sailing with sail power. They are allowed to sail with engine power. Only on a few days of the year, with special permits obtained for planned yacht races, the Bosphorus is closed to ship traffic and sailing yachts are allowed to race. International sailing yacht races are organized through the Bosphorus every year for at least seven days and these days colorful sailboats make the strait much more scenic.