Yacht charter in Istanbul

Boat Rentals in Istanbul

Istanbul, formerly known as Constantinople, is the largest city and principal seaport of Turkey. Over 15 million people live there, and its total area comprises over 5 thousand square kilometres. It is the only city in the world to sit on two continents simultaneously (Europe and Asia), which is a very interesting fact to know before you visit! Boat rentals in Istanbul are very popular amongst both locals and tourists.

The boats are an essential means of transport for those Istanbul locals who live and work between the two continents. You’ll notice that there are many docks both on the European and the Asian side of the city. On the Asian side, the principal docks are Üsküdar (in the north) and Kadıköy (in the south). On the European side, you can find Eminönü (to the south of the Galata bridge) and Beşiktaş (between the two bridges on the Bosphorus).

How much does it cost to rent a boat in Istanbul?

When you charter a yacht in Istanbul, the cost will depend on a few factors. The season in which you embark, the type and size of the boat and the number of guests will impact the final cost. Including a skipper and crewed yacht will usually increase the cost of your boat hire.

Take a look at some of our boat prices below:

What is the cost to charter a boat in Istanbul per day?

Ready for your day on the water on your private yacht charter? Here are our prices:

Motorboat

Our prices for motorboat rentals begin at €600/day in the low and high seasons.

Yacht

Our prices for yacht rentals begin at €1,160/day in the low and high seasons.

Gulet

Our prices for gulet charters begin at €4,000/day in the low and high seasons.

What is the price to rent a boat in Istanbul per week?

With a week-long yacht charter in Istanbul, you can easily explore the Bosphorus Strait and the Black Sea. Take a look at our prices:

Motorboat

Our prices for motorboat rentals begin at €5,300/week in the low and high seasons.

Yacht

Our prices for yacht rentals begin at €6,650/week in the low and high seasons.

Gulet

Our prices for gulet charters begin at €28,000/week in the low and high seasons.

What is included in the cost?

The cost includes using your chosen vessel for your boat trip. The essential safety equipment will be included to ensure that you and your guests have a secure and worry-free journey! The final cost may differ depending on the additional services and extras that the boat owner provides. Fuel will typically require an additional payment and will depend on the type of boat you choose and the length of your journey.

What are the mooring fees in Istanbul?

Mooring fees in Istanbul vary depending on factors such as the marina's location, facilities, and vessel size. On average, you can expect to pay around €3 per night. These fees usually cover services like water, electricity, security, and access to amenities. It's recommended to research specific marinas and their offerings to get a precise understanding of mooring costs in Istanbul.

All-aboard! Should I hire a boat in Istanbul with or without a skipper?

Whether you're a novice yearning to explore the seas or a seasoned sailor seeking a thrilling escapade, our exceptional boat rental services are meticulously tailored to meet your every need. For those seeking a sense of adventure at the helm, we also offer the exhilarating option of bareboat charters. At Nautal, your safety is our top priority. Before setting off, the boat owner may require proof of experience and a sailing license to ensure your safety and that of your guests onboard.

Picture yourself reclining in luxury as our team of highly skilled and knowledgeable professional skippers effortlessly navigate the glistening waters of the enchanting Sea of Marmara. With their expertise, they effortlessly handle all the intricate technicalities, from seamless docking to flawless anchoring. Not only that, but our skippers also have insider knowledge of the local area, allowing them to suggest the best spots for you to visit and ensuring that you make the most out of your vacation.

What to do with a boat charter in Istanbul?

Istanbul is renowned for its many impressive mosques and palaces. If you appreciate beautiful buildings, old markets and museums, you’ll never run out of things to do in this mesmerising city. With your Istanbul boat charter, you’ll soon discover the city’s compelling (and lengthy) history, thriving culture, and mouth-watering cuisine as you meander through its beautiful streets and diverse neighbourhoods.

A few of our favourite tourist attractions include:

Topkapi Palace

Experience the palace's opulence that once housed Ottoman sultans, reflecting centuries of grandeur and power.

Grand Bazaar

Dock nearby to immerse yourself in the bustling labyrinth of the Grand Bazaar, a treasure trove of spices, textiles, and intricate crafts.

Dolmabahçe Palace

Admire the fusion of Ottoman and European architectural styles in this impressive palace, offering insight into the city's historical transition.

Basilica Cistern

Delve into the mystery of the underground Basilica Cistern, an ancient reservoir that exudes an air of intrigue and mystique.

Hagia Sophia

Witness the captivating transformation of the Hagia Sophia, from cathedral to mosque to museum, representing Istanbul's diverse cultural layers.

Blue Mosque

Approach the serene beauty of the Blue Mosque, adorned with exquisite blue tiles that create an otherworldly ambience.

Where to sail with an Istanbul boat rental?

When visiting Istanbul, there is a long list of stunning nearby locations to discover. Here are some of our must-sees:

Princes' Islands

Discover the captivating archipelago in the Sea of Marmara, with Büyükada as the highlight. Its wooden mansions and horse-drawn carriages transport you to a nostalgic era.

Heybeliada

A tranquil island known for its natural beauty, providing a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

Kınalıada

Sail to this charming town characterised by striking red cliffs adorned with colourful houses, creating a picturesque backdrop.

Anadolu Kavağı

Journey to the northern end of the Bosphorus, where the Black Sea meets the Bosphorus Strait. Explore the medieval Yoros Castle and relish the panoramic views.

Ortaköy

Navigate to this vibrant district known for its lively market, eclectic architecture, and the iconic Ortaköy Mosque by the water's edge.

Beykoz

Head east to experience the serene beauty of Beykoz, where you can enjoy peaceful moments surrounded by lush landscapes and the gentle flow of the Göksu River.

What is the weather like in Istanbul?

Istanbul's temperate maritime climate makes late spring to early autumn (May to September) the best time to sail. During this period, you'll encounter mild to warm temperatures, calm seas, and clear skies, providing ideal conditions for sailing. The summer peak (June to August) offers the warmest weather and is perfect for water activities. While winter (November to March) sees cooler temperatures and more rain, sailing is less common. Overall, the comfortable weather, calm seas, and cultural exploration opportunities make late spring to early autumn the optimal seasons for sailing in Istanbul.

Which is the perfect boat type for me?

Choosing the perfect vessel for your Istanbul yacht charter can be difficult, which is why we’re here to help!

Take a look at the capacity of the boats in our fleet below:

Motorboat

Our motorboats accommodate up to 36 guests.

Gulets

Our catamarans accommodate up to 130 guests.

Yacht

Our yachts accommodate up to 31 guests.

Popular ports and mooring fees in Istanbul

Ataköy Marina

Located around 15 kilometres from the inner city, Ataköy Marina is conveniently positioned for boaters. It is approximately 8 kilometres from Atatürk Airport and 50 kilometres from Istanbul Airport. This marina boasts over 1,000 berths and offers comprehensive facilities, including a fuel station, restaurants, shops, a yacht club, repair and maintenance services, and 24/7 security.

Kalamış and Fenerbahçe Marinas

Situated roughly 10 kilometres from the inner city, Kalamış and Fenerbahçe Marinas offer easy access to boating enthusiasts. They are located at a distance of about 30 kilometres from both Atatürk Airport and Istanbul Airport. With a combined total of over 900 berths, these marinas provide modern amenities such as restaurants, bars, shops, yacht clubs, repair services, and round-the-clock security.

Setur Kalamış and Fenerbahçe Marinas

Just around 10 kilometres from the inner city, Setur Kalamış and Fenerbahçe Marinas are strategically positioned. They are situated approximately 30 kilometres away from both Atatürk Airport and Istanbul Airport. With a collective capacity of over 1,000 berths, these marinas offer comprehensive facilities, including restaurants, bars, swimming pools, shopping outlets, yacht clubs, repair and maintenance services, and 24/7 security.

West Istanbul Marina

Positioned around 40 kilometres from the inner city, West Istanbul Marina provides a slightly more distant option. It is situated at an approximate distance of 65 kilometres from both Atatürk Airport and Istanbul Airport. This marina offers over 500 berths and features extensive amenities, including restaurants, bars, shopping outlets, a fitness centre, a yacht club, repair and maintenance services, and 24/7 security.

How to get to Istanbul

You can easily get to Istanbul by bus, train, ferry or plane. Of course, the best option depends on where you are travelling from. All major budget airlines fly to Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Airport, and Turkish Airlines has excellent connections worldwide.

If you’d like to embark on a unique experience, why not hop on a train? Unfortunately, the famous Orient Express Route doesn’t operate anymore. However, you can use EURAIL PASS to get there from Europe and travel around Turkey by train.

Frequently Asked Questions about İstanbul

How much does it cost to rent a boat during the high and low seasons in İstanbul?

The average daily cost of renting a boat in İstanbul is approximately €1,221 during the high season and about €902 during the low season.

What is the daily cost of a skipper in İstanbul?

The cost of a skipper varies depending on the destination and the owner of the boat. In İstanbul, the average price for a skipper is about €105 per day.

Does the boat rental price in İstanbul include fuel?

Most boat rentals do not include fuel. However, in İstanbul, fuel is included in the price for 7 boats.

Is it possible to rent a boat without a license in İstanbul?

In İstanbul there are 2 boats available for rent without a license. Additionally, you can rent many boats with a skipper.

What is the maximum capacity of people on a boat in İstanbul?

The maximum capacity for boats in İstanbul is 101 people. Note that if you rent a boat with a skipper, they are included in the total number of people.

Good to know