As a leading yacht charter crew, we invite you to check out Istanbul—a vibrant city mixing history and modern flair, with fancy touches along the Bosphorus. In 2025, Istanbul draws celebs, big names, and folks wanting the best with its great food, cozy hotels, and awesome yacht rides. Whether you’re after ideas for your next sail or special picks to make your Istanbul trip shine, here’s our take on the city’s top spots and must-do’s, crafted for those who love the good stuff.
Restaurants
TURK Fatih Tutak (Bomonti, Şişli)
Run by Chef Fatih Tutak, this two-Michelin-star spot—Turkey’s only one—flips Turkish dishes with fresh, seasonal twists. In Bomonti, it rolls out a 14-course feast, think yogurt manti with smoke or cauliflower topped with caviar. Celebs and food nerds love it, great for a big meal before or after a yacht cruise. Pair it with a Bosphorus ride for a night to remember.
Gallada (The Peninsula Istanbul, Karaköy)
On The Peninsula Istanbul’s roof, Gallada—another Fatih Tutak hit—nabbed a Michelin star in 2025. It mixes Turkish and Asian flavors, serving spicy lamb or lotus scallops with Bosphorus views. Stars and bosses hang here for upscale dinners. Grab a yacht from the hotel’s dock to slide into a starry sail.
Epoca (İstinye Park, Sarıyer)
Fresh in the 2025 Michelin guide, Epoca by Chef Emre Şen cooks up Turkish plates like wagyu carpaccio and truffle lamb tandır. In swanky İstinye Park, it pulls movie stars and local heroes. Eat here, then hop on a yacht at İstinye Marina for a custom Bosphorus or Black Sea trip.
Hotels
The Peninsula Istanbul (Karaköy)
Starting strong in 2024, The Peninsula Istanbul owns the Bosphorus in 2025, blending old vibes with modern luxe. Gallada’s up top, and its waterfront rooms wow stars. The private dock’s perfect for yacht hops—step from boat to pure ease. A hot pick for fashion week or private yacht bashes.
Princess Palace Resort (Büyükada)
Out on Büyükada, Princess Palace Resort sparkles in 2025 with new looks and elite perks. Private villas, fresh eats, and sea views make it a star getaway, just a yacht skip from Istanbul’s noise. Sail over for spa time or a quiet dinner under the stars.
Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus (Kuruçeşme)
With a chill resort vibe and Bosphorus spot, Mandarin Oriental’s a 2025 fave for big shots. Private villas, a slick spa, and Hakkasan dining keep rock stars and CEOs happy. Right by the water, it’s great for yacht fans—line up a cruise with drinks and bites to impress your gang.
Beach Bars & Clubs
Hakkasan (Mandarin Oriental, Kuruçeşme)
A 2025 nightlife champ, Hakkasan serves Chinese food and killer drinks by the Bosphorus. Open till late, its terrace hosts hot DJ parties for stars and travelers. Pull up by yacht for a bold entrance, then sail off for a private water bash.
Klein Garten (Arnavutköy)
New in 2025 on Arnavutköy’s revamped shore, Klein Garten’s a sleek beach club. Bosphorus views, custom drinks, and weekend music draw Istanbul’s cool crowd. Moor your yacht nearby and shuttle folks in for a day-to-night party they’ll rave about.
Princes’ Islands Escape:
Büyükada Adventure
Yacht over to Princess Palace Resort on Büyükada for a day of island calm. Zip through car-free streets on electric bikes, picnic in the pines, or host a small dinner on deck with Marmara Sea views. This quiet luxe trip fits star clients or VIP crews.
Michelin-Starred Dining Afloat
Up your yacht game with a custom meal from TURK Fatih Tutak or Gallada. We’ll bring Michelin-star dishes to your boat, paired with fine wines and Bosphorus sights. Awesome for birthdays, work trips, or a romantic night under Istanbul’s stars.
Marinas
Setur Kalamış Marina (Fenerbahçe)
Redone in 2025, Setur Kalamış Marina’s a hub for luxe yacht owners. With dockside eats and solid setups, it’s a great launch for Bosphorus runs. Park here before hitting the Asian side or throwing a yacht cocktail party with city views.
İstinye Marina (İstinye)
A 2025 elite hangout, İstinye Marina pops with modern style and upscale perks. Huge yachts crowd its docks, with shops and cafés for the rich nearby. Start your charter here for a chill Bosphorus cruise or a Black Sea ride.
Inspiration for Your Istanbul Yacht Adventure
Sunset Sails & Cocktails: Kick off from Kuruçeşme at dusk, sipping Hakkasan drinks as the sun drops behind Süleymaniye Mosque.
Private Island Hopping: Try Büyükada, then zip to Sivriada or Yassıada for a low-key day on the water.
Cultural Cruise: Pair your yacht trip with a local’s take on shore spots like Dolmabahçe Palace.
Elite Fishing Experience: Fish the Bosphorus with pro gear, then eat a chef-cooked meal from your haul.
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