Ferries & Boats
Ferries play an important role in Turkey — especially in Istanbul (Bosporus ferries), in the Aegean, and along the Mediterranean coast.
Istanbul Ferries
The Bosporus ferries are Istanbul's most beautiful means of transport. They shuttle between Europe and Asia every minute and offer the Istanbul panorama for free. The Şehir Hatları ferries (municipal) accept the Istanbulkart. Key routes:
- Eminönü → Kadıköy: 20 min., the classic Europe-Asia crossing
- Eminönü → Üsküdar: 15 min., view of Maiden's Tower
- Karaköy → Kadıköy: 20 min., from the trendy district to the Asian market
- Bosporus Long Tour (Boğaz Turu): 6h round trip almost to the Black Sea. Only 100 ₺ with Istanbulkart. Every day from Eminönü at 10:35 AM.
Greek Islands from Turkey
| Route | Duration | Price (from) | Provider |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bodrum → Kos | 45 min. | 25–35 € | Bodrum Ferryboat, FerryLines |
| Çeşme → Chios | 30 min. | 20–30 € | Ertürk Lines |
| Kuşadası → Samos | 1.5 h | 25–35 € | Meander Travel |
| Kaş → Meis (Kastellorizo) | 20 min. | 20–25 € | Meis Express |
| Fethiye → Rhodos | 1.5 h | 50–70 € | FerryLines |
Bring passport/ID card — these are international crossings!
Gulet Tours (Blue Voyage)
The legendary Blue Voyage (Mavi Yolculuk) is a multi-day sailing trip on a traditional wooden gulet along the Turkish Aegean or Lycian coast. Visit bays, swim, dine on deck, sleep under the stars. 3–7 days, from 200–400 €/person including full board. The most popular routes: Fethiye → Olympos, Bodrum → Gökova, Marmaris → Fethiye.
💡 Tipp
The Bosporus Long Tour (Boğaz Turu) from Eminönü is the best value-for-money experience in Istanbul: 6 hours on the water for under 3 €. Sit on the right side (in the direction of travel) for views of the palaces on the European side. Bring provisions — the onboard restaurant is overpriced.