Full Description & Details
Kandilli Iskelesi is a ferry pier and anchorage on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus, at the foot of Kandilli Burnu, the headland that projects into the strait. The pier sits opposite Bebek Bay on the European side, near the deepest point of the Bosphorus, which reaches about 110 meters. The surrounding Kandilli neighborhood is part of Uskudar district, between Vanikoy and Anadoluhisari. The area is known for the Kandilli Kiz Lisesi, Adile Sultan Sarayi, and the historic Kandilli Camii, all within easy walking distance of the water.
The anchorage offers a concrete ferry pier with a berthing face 21 meters long. The pier stands 1.3 meters above the water, and the depth alongside is 9.6 meters, which suits most cruising yachts. The holding is in the Bosphorus, so expect strong currents and passing vessel traffic. The pier is primarily a ferry landing for Sehir Hatlari commuter boats, not a dedicated marina, so overnight berthing is not a formal service. Anchoring in the bay is possible but exposed to the Bosphorus current and wash from ferries.
Facilities are minimal. There is no fuel dock, no water, and no electricity at the pier. The nearest services are in the village, where you will find bus stops for IETT routes 15, 15F, and 15H, and a taxi stand. The pier is a stop on the Bosphorus ferry line, with regular service to Besiktas, Eminonu, and Uskudar. For provisioning, you will need to go ashore and walk into the neighborhood.
Approach with caution. The Bosphorus has a strong current, and the area around Kandilli Burnu is busy with ferries and other traffic. The nearest navigation aid is Kandilli Burnu Lighthouse, about 1.5 NM southeast of the port of Istanbul. The anchorage is not a designated port of entry, so formalities are handled at larger ports. The best time to anchor is during slack current, and you should always monitor VHF for local traffic. There are no known restrictions on anchoring, but the ferry pier is for ferry use only.
How to get there
Approach Kandilli Iskelesi from the Bosphorus, heading toward the Asian shore. The pier is at the foot of Kandilli Burnu, opposite Bebek Bay. Use the Kandilli Burnu Lighthouse as a reference, which is about 1.5 NM southeast of the main port.
The water depth at the pier is 9.6 meters, but the Bosphorus current is strong, so plan your approach for slack water. There is no dedicated VHF channel for the pier; contact the ferry operator or the port authority for traffic information. Land access is via the ferry pier, which is a concrete landing 1.3 meters above the water.
From the pier, the village of Kandilli is immediately ashore, with bus stops for routes 15, 15F, and 15H, and a taxi stand nearby. The nearest major town is Uskudar, about 5 km south, and the European side is a short ferry ride away. There is no formal customs or immigration at the pier; these are handled at the main ports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the depth at Kandilli Iskelesi?
The depth at Kandilli Iskelesi is 9.6 meters at the ferry berth, which is suitable for most yachts and small vessels.
Can I anchor overnight at Kandilli Iskelesi?
Overnight anchoring is possible in the bay, but the Bosphorus current is strong and the area is busy with ferry traffic, so it is not a sheltered anchorage.
Does Kandilli Iskelesi have fuel or water?
No, Kandilli Iskelesi has no fuel, water, or electricity. It is a public ferry pier, so you must bring your own supplies or go ashore.
How do I contact Kandilli Iskelesi by VHF?
There is no dedicated VHF channel for Kandilli Iskelesi. Contact the ferry operator or the port authority for VHF communication.
What is the best time to visit Kandilli Iskelesi?
The best time to visit is during slack current, which occurs around high and low tide, to avoid the strong Bosphorus current.
More sailing guides
Bareboat Sailing in Spain: Requirements and Licences
Everything you need to bareboat charter in Spain: accepted licences, flag-state rules, VHF requirements, and what to do if yours isn't accepted.
Yacht Charter Cost in Spain: What to Expect and How to Save
Real yacht charter costs in Spain by boat type, season, and region, plus what's included, hidden fees, and practical ways to cut the price.
How to Charter a Yacht in Spain: A Step-by-Step Guide
A step-by-step guide to chartering a yacht in Spain: choosing a charter type, budgeting, licences, booking, and what to expect once you're aboard.
Yacht Charter Provisioning Guide: Expert Tips & Checklists
Plan your sailing holiday like a pro with our yacht charter provisioning guide—food lists, meal planning, local market tips, and essential advice for every itinerary.
Best Yacht Type for Group Charters: How to Choose
Discover the best yacht types for group charters, from family reunions to corporate events. Compare sailing yacht options, capacity, cost, amenities, and legal limits.
What Information Is Needed to Book a Sailing Yacht Charter?
Discover the key information, documents, and requirements needed to book a sailing yacht charter. Learn what details charter companies need for a smooth reservation.
Yacht Charter Deposit Insurance: What It Covers & Why You Need It
Understand yacht charter deposit insurance: what it covers, costs, differences from security deposits, and how it protects your sailing holiday or commercial charter.
Related places
Akaçlar Koyu
Baba Koyu
Badalan Körfezi
Armutlu Devlet Limanı
Ataköy Marina
Bandırma Balıkçı Barınağı
Aksazlar Koyu
Akvaryum bay
Akvaryum koyu
Adaköy Marina
Alanya Marina
