Getting around by boat and ferry Istanbul

This private company manages certain maritime links in the city of Istanbul. The deniz otobüsü - fast boats - mainly cover long distances. They also allow you to go to the Princes' Islands and across the Marmara Sea: to Bursa, Bandırma or Yalova. In any case, get the leaflet indicating the lines and timetables, available at all ticket offices. The most important port is Yenikapi.

Istanbul Şehir Hatları AŞ Genel Müdürlüğü is a transport company based in Istanbul. No: 63/A, 34440 Beyoğlu/İstanbul. The company offers ferry and cruise services on the Bosphorus, as well as boat rental and shipyard services.

This private company is one of the first competitors of the municipality's boats. It offers various trips between the two shores, cruises on the Bosporus and trips to the Princes' Islands. The advantage of these private boats is that they provide the connection Kabataş-Üsküdar (from 6:45 am to midnight every day, a boat every 15 minutes), unlike the municipality, for the same rate as city boats. Possibility to eat on board. Timetables to be consulted on the website.

The city manages almost all of Istanbul's maritime links. Ideal transport to travel on both sides of the Bosphorus, there are many ports, so that it is as easy to take the boat as any other means of transport. It is also possible to visit the Princes' Islands. Boats have the advantage of avoiding the city's endless traffic jams and thus saving you time. There are departures every 15 minutes between Europe and Asia. It is also a great way to discover Istanbul.

Located in Karaköy and close to the Galata Bridge, this port welcomes cruise ships. You can easily see it from the historical city (Golden Horn side). It includes a tourist office. In addition to hosting ships, it is also a shopping center and a cultural space. It is a huge project that was born in 2022 and should attract tourists. The architecture of the port is sober and it has an underground terminal, a world first! If you don't like shopping, a path along the Bosphorus has been developed.

This private company also provides numerous trips between the two shores, with the possibility of paying with the Istanbulkart card. It is also possible to travel to the Princes Islands from Karaköy, Eminönü (every hour). The company offers cruises on the Bosporus from Üsküdar and Kadıköy (departures every hour). Many platforms are served and the rates are similar to those offered by the city hall shuttles. Check the schedules on the site, possibility to book tickets in advance.