Istanbul

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==Istanbul (Port of entry)==
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{{IsPartOf|Mediterranean|Turkey|Sea of Marmara}}
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[[Image:Turkey_Istanbul_r.jpg|400px|thumb|right|Chart of Istanbul Region<br/>''Click for larger view'']]
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{{TOC block}}
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===Background===
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{{Infobox
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[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Istanbul Istanbul] (Εις την Πόλι - is tin Poli - to the city) the capital of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Byzantine_Empire Byzantine Empire], Κωνσταντινούπολις ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constantinople Constantinoupolis] - the city of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constantine_I Constantine]) or, as it is known to all the Greeks, simply as "η Πόλις" (i Polis - the City) has been dominating the history of Eastern Mediterranean for almost 1800 years. Today it is a thriving metropolis of 7,550,000 inhabitants and its is Turkey's largest city. It is a fascinating place where East meets West, Islam meets Christianity, and Greeks meet Turks.
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| lat= 41.013611
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| lon= 28.955
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| chartlet= y
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| portofentry= y
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| zoom= 12
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| image= Turkey_Istanbul_r.jpg
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| imagetext= Chart of Istanbul Region<!--| imagewidth= 450px-->
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| notes=
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}}
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Istanbul started life as a modest Greek settlement, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Byzantium Byzantium], founded by colonists from Megara. In in 330 AD the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Empire Roman] Emperor [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constantine_I Constantine] moved the capital of his empire to Byzantium and renamed it [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Rome Nova Roma] (New Rome). At his death the empire was split by his sons into the Western and Eastern Roman Empires. The later evolved into the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Byzantine_Empire Byzantine Empire]. The original language of the empire was, of course, Latin but later in the 7th century it was supplanted by Greek.
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Today's [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Istanbul Istanbul] is a thriving city, and with its history and monuments one of the most fascinating places that a cruiser, or any other visitor, can visit.
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The Empire reached it peak during the rein of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Justinian_I Justinian] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theodora_%286th_century%29 Theodora] (483 - 548). It was during this time the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hagia_Sophia Hagia Sophia] which still dominates Istanbul's skyline was built. Eventually the Empire went into a decline and by the time of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fourth_Crusade Fourth Crusade] was so weakened that the crusaders [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fourth_Crusade#Final_capture_of_Constantinople capured] it 1204.In 1261 the Byzantines recovered their city and the Empire, a shadow of its glorious past, lingered for over 200 more years.
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==Charts==
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; BA
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: 224 Maramara Denizi
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: 1005 Marmara Adasi to Istanbul Boğazi
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; NIMA
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: 55040 Sea of Marmara
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; Turkey
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: 29 Marmara Sea
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: 292 İstanbul - Mudanya
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In the mean time, around the 11th century a Turkish tribe, the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seljuq Seljuqs] started migrating and conquering lands in Anatolia. Their empire collapsed in the 13th. One of its constituents Turkish tribes, the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sögüt Söğüt] was settled in the river valley of Sakarya started to fill the vacuum. They became known as "Ottomans" after [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Osman_I Osman] (1258–1326) one of their early leaders who united them.  By the time [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mehmed_II Mehmet I|] became their sultan in 1451 they had become the major power and dominated all the former Byzantine lands. Fulfilling [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murad_II Murad’s] (his father) dream in April 1453 he besieged Constantinople and on 29 May 1453 the city fell and the Byzantine Empire ceased to exist.
 
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The city now was the capital of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ottoman_Empire Ottoman Empire] which for dominated the Mediterranean region for the next 400 years. It was a large, cosmopolitan, and for its day fairly enlightened empire. Under it many cultures flourished. At the height of its power (16th–17th century), it spanned three continents, controlling much of Southeastern Europe, the Middle East and North Africa. It stretched from the Strait of Gibraltar (and, in 1553, the Atlantic coast of Morocco beyond Gibraltar) in the west to the Caspian Sea and Persian Gulf in the east, and from the edge of Austria, Hungary and parts of Ukraine in the north to Sudan, Eritrea, Somalia and Yemen in the south. On November 1, 1922 the last emperor, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mehmed_VI Mehmed VI], following Turkey's defeat at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_I World War I], was deposed and on  October 29, 1923 the Ottoman Empire also eased to exist. It was succeeded by the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Republic_of_Turkey Republic of Turkey] with its capital in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ankara Ankara]. The Republic's leader [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mustafa_Kemal_Atatürk Mustafa Kemal Atatürk], the father of modern Turkey, started a vast modernization campaign bringing his country into the 20th century.
 
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Today's Istanbul is a thriving city, and with its history and monuments one of the most fascinating places that a cruiser, or any other visitor, can visit.
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==Weather==
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''See [[Turkey#Weather|Turkey]]''.
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{{hold horizontal}}
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===Charts===
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==Passages==
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;BA
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* [[Bosphorus#Navigation|Bosphorus]]
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:224 Maramara Denizi
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* [[Sea of Marmara#Navigation|Sea of Marmara]]
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:1005 Marmara Adasi to Istanbul Boğazi
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;NIMA
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:55040 Sea of Marmara
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;Turkey
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:29 Marmara Sea
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:292 İstanbul - Mudanya
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===Radio Nets===
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==Islands==
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''Also see [[HF_Radio|Cruiser's Nets]]''
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{{dest| Marmara Islands}}
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{{dest| Princes Islands}}
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Submit details of local radio Nets.
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==Communication==
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*
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===Approach and Navigation===
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''Also see [[World MM Nets|World Cruiser's Nets]]''.
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[[Image:Istanbu_lApr3.jpg|200px|thumb|right|Approaching Bosphorus<br/>''Click for larger view'']]
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The approach to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Istanbul Istanbul] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bosporus Bosphorus], the narrow channel that separates Europe from Asia from the sea is one of the most breathtaking sites one can ever see. You can see the suspended [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bosphorus_Bridge Bosphorus Bridge], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hagia_Sophia Agia Sophia], the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sultan_Ahmed_Mosque Blue Mosque], and the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topkapı_Palace Topkapi Palace] to the north, and the palaces and mansions which line both sides of the channel.
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The traffic in the narrow channel is horrific. Boats are everywhere: large steamers coming from or going to the Black Sea, ferryboats cutting across at high speed, cruise ships, motor cruisers, small fishing boats, even a couple of sail boats all in an anarchic mess, totally oblivious of any rules of navigation avoiding each other, as if by miracle. The water is very polluted.
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==Navigation==
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The approach to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Istanbul Istanbul] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bosporus Bosphorus], the narrow channel that separates Europe from Asia from the sea is one of the most breathtaking sites one can ever see. You can see the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bosphorus_Bridge Bosphorus Bridge], suspension bridge; [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hagia_Sophia Agia Sophia]; the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sultan_Ahmed_Mosque Blue Mosque], and the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topkapı_Palace Topkapi Palace] to the north, and the palaces and mansions which line both sides of the channel.
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See also [[Marmara_Sea#Special_Navigation_Notes_and_transit_details|Marmara Sea]].
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The traffic in the narrow channel is horrific. Boats are everywhere: large steamers coming from or going to the Black Sea, ferryboats cutting across at high speed, cruise ships, motor cruisers, small fishing boats, even a couple of sail boats all in an anarchic mess, totally oblivious of any rules of navigation regarding mutual avoidance but doing so as if by miracle. The water is also very polluted.
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===Check-in facilities===
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''See also [[Sea of Marmara#Special_Navigation_Notes_and_transit_details|Sea of Marmara]]''.
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There are several anchorages near Istanbul. The two most important are the [[Atakoy_Marina|Ataköy]] and the [[Kalamıs_&_Fenerbahce_Marinas|Kalamis]] Marinas.
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==Entrance==
If you are either entering or exiting Turkey the staff of the marinas may be able to help you. But, bear in mind that these marinas mainly cater to local yachts and their staff may not be very familiar with the official procedures. The Turkish officials are in the Karaköy district. It is better to go there yourself.
If you are either entering or exiting Turkey the staff of the marinas may be able to help you. But, bear in mind that these marinas mainly cater to local yachts and their staff may not be very familiar with the official procedures. The Turkish officials are in the Karaköy district. It is better to go there yourself.
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For details ''see [[Turkey#Entrance|Turkey]]''.
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==Berthing==
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There are several anchorages near Istanbul. The two most important are the [[Atakoy_Marina|Ataköy]] and the [[Kalamıs_and_Fenerbahce_Marinas|Kalamis]] Marinas.
===Marinas & Yacht Clubs===
===Marinas & Yacht Clubs===
* [[Atakoy_Marina|Ataköy Marina]]
* [[Atakoy_Marina|Ataköy Marina]]
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* [[Kalamıs_& Fenerbahce_Marinas|Kalamış & Fenerbahçe Marinas]]
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* [[Kalamıs and Fenerbahce_Marinas|Kalamış & Fenerbahçe Marinas]]
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*  
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* [[Marinturk_Istanbul_City_Port|Marinturk Istanbul City Port]]
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===Anchorages===
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{{poi | lat= 40.9619 | lon= 28.6605
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See [[Bosphorus#Bordering_Countries_(with_Port_details)|Bosphorus]].
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| type= berth
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| name= West Istanbul Marina
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| altname=  
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| url = http://www.westistanbulmarina.com
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| zoom= 15
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| portofentry=
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| image=
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| imagetext=
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| text= new and with all service, cheaper then the other marinas but far out of the city.
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: {{email|XX@XXX}}; Tel: +90 212 850 22 00; Fax: +XX XX XXXX-XXXX; VHF channel XX
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: Address: Yaakuplu Marmara Mah., Ulusum Cad. No:28, 34524 Beylikdüzü Organize Sanayi Bölgesi/Beylikdüzü/Beylikdüzü/İstanbul, Turkey
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: Hours: 8:00 to 16:00
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}}
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===Offshore Islands===
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==Anchorages==
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See [[Marmara_Sea#Offshore_Islands|Marmara Sea]].  
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''See [[Bosphorus#Berthing|Bosphorus]]''.
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===Routes/Passages To/From===
 
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*  [[Bosphorus]]
 
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* [[Marmara Sea]]
 
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===Tourism & things to do ashore===
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==Amenities==
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There are so many things to see and do in Istanbul that we cannot possibly cover but the barest essentials. It is best to consult one of the many tourist guides.
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{{tlist
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====Hagia Sophia====
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|header|Facilities
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{|
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|valign="top"|[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hagia_Sophia Hagia Sophia], the Byzantine Cathedral of Constantinoupolis, now a museum. It is one of the most important architectural monuments ever built.
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Hagia Sophia was built during the rain of the emperor [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Justinian_I Justinian] and was designed by the mathematician [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anthemius_of_Tralles Anthemius] and the physicist [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isidore_of_Miletus Isidoros]. It was completed in 537 AD.
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|Water| Both the [[Atakoy_Marina|Ataköy]] and [[Kalamıs_and_Fenerbahce_Marinas|Kalamis]] marinas provide water to each berthed yacht at the dock
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|Electricity| Both the [[Atakoy_Marina|Ataköy]] and [[Kalamıs_and_Fenerbahce_Marinas|Kalamis]] marinas provide electricity outlets for each yacht at the dock
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|Toilets| In the marinas
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|Showers|  In the marinas
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|Laundry|
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* There are laundry machines in [[Atakoy_Marina|Ataköy Marina]]
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* The staff of the [[Kalamıs & Fenerbahce Marinas|Kalamış & Fenerbahçe Marinas]] can arrange for next day laundry service at a high price. They do not wash underwear!
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It is closed om Mondays. Be aware of the very aggressive street vendors that flock its entrance. If you are to see only one thing in Istanbul, see Hagia Sophia.
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|Garbage| There are bins around the marinas
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|[[Image:Istanbul_HagSophia.jpg|200px|thumb|right|Hagia Sophia<br/>''Click for larger view'']]
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|header|Supplies
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|}
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|Fuel| Both the [[Atakoy_Marina|Ataköy]] and [[Kalamıs_and_Fenerbahce_Marinas|Kalamis]] marinas have a fueling dock
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|Bottled gas| {{MagentaText|?}}
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|Chandlers|
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* There is a chandlery within [[Atakoy_Marina|Ataköy Marina]]
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* There is a chandlery near the [[Kalamıs_and_Fenerbahce_Marinas|Kalamis Marina]]
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* The best chandleries, however, can be found in the Karaköy district
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====Blue Mosque====
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|header|Services
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{|
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|Repairs| ''See [[#Marinas & Yacht Clubs|marina entries]]''
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|valign="top"|Another architectural wonder, just across from Hagia Sophia, is the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sultan_Ahmed_Mosque Blue Mosque] or Sultan Ahmed Mosque. It is a magnificent building, completed in 1616. Its combination of ceramic tiles, stained glass windows, and colorful carpets make the visit to its interior a virtual aesthetic feast.
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|Internet| In the marinas and in cafés
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|Mobile connectivity| Strong 4G signal in most places
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|Vehicle rentals| Car rental can be arranges at the marinas, however, driving in Istanbul is not for the faint hearted
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}}
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|[[Image:Istanbul_BlueMosq.jpg|200px|thumb|right|Sultan Ahmed Mosque<br/>''Click for larger view'']]
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==Provisioning==
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|}
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* There are several supermarkets within walking distance from [[Kalamıs_and_Fenerbahce_Marinas|Kalamis Marina]]
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* A huge ''Migros'' supermarket is about 10 minutes'  walk from [[Atakoy_Marina|Ataköy Marina]]
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* Of course, there is the [[#Grand_Bazaar|Grand Bazaar]] where you can find almost anything
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====Topkapi Palace====
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==Eating out==
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{|
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* In general there are numerous very good restaurants in Istanbul
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|valign="top"|[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topkapi_Palace Topkapi Palace] was the sultan's (Ottoman Emperor) residence from 1465 to 1853. Construction of the palace was started in 1459 AD under the sultan [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mehmed_II Mehmed II]. At one time it housed about 4,000 people.
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* The ''Darüzziyafe'' is a traditional Turkish restaurant near the Süleymaniye Cami (Mosque), its food is outstanding
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* The restaurant within the [[Kalamıs_and_Fenerbahce_Marinas|Kalamis]] compound serves excellent food
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* From [[Atakoy_Marina|Ataköy Marina]], it is a 10-15 minute walk to the suburb of Yesilkoy, where there are fast food establishments, cafes and restaurants to meet every taste
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Now it a museum where you can see magnificently illuminated manuscripts, the Prophet's bow and sword, the famous emerald-encrusted dagger of the Mehmed II (remember the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topkapi_%28film%29 Topkapi movie] with Melina Merkouri and Peter Ustinov), the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spoonmaker%27s_Diamond Spoonmaker's Diamond], etc.
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==Transportation==
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* Two International airport with connections almost anywhere in the world.
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* Links to the official Bus, Train and Ferry operators websites that contain route maps and timetables are at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_transport_in_Istanbul#Links Public transport in Istanbul] Wikipedia webpage - External Links section.  
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You can also visit the [http://www.turkishodyssey.com/places/marmara/marmara2.htm#Harem harem] section which was opened to the public just a few years ago. It is really hard to see how about 400 women were kept indoors, prisoners for life, in such a small, although gilded, cage. From the harem one has access to a lovely garden overlooking the [[Marmara_Sea|Sea of Marmara]].
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====Tourism====
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====History====
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[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Istanbul Istanbul] (Εις την Πόλι - is tin Poli - to the city) the capital of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Byzantine_Empire Byzantine Empire], Κωνσταντινούπολις ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constantinople Constantinoupolis] - the city of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constantine_I Constantine]) or, as it is known to all the Greeks, simply as "η Πόλις" (i Polis - the City) has been dominating the history of Eastern Mediterranean for almost 1800 years. Today it is a thriving metropolis of 7,550,000 inhabitants and Turkey's largest city. It is a fascinating place where East meets West, Islam meets Christianity, and Greeks meet Turks.
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Istanbul started life as a modest Greek settlement, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Byzantium Byzantium], founded by colonists from Megara. In 330 AD the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Empire Roman] Emperor [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constantine_I Constantine] moved the capital of his empire to Byzantium and renamed it [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Rome Nova Roma] (New Rome). At his death the empire was split by his sons into the Western and Eastern Roman Empires. The later evolved into the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Byzantine_Empire Byzantine Empire]. The original language of the empire was, of course, Latin but later in the 7th century it was supplanted by Greek.
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|[[Image:Istanbul_TopKap1.jpg|200px|thumb|right|The Courtyard of the Favorites in Topkapi<br/>''Click for larger view'']]
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The Empire reached its peak during the rein of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Justinian_I Justinian] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theodora_%286th_century%29 Theodora] (483 - 548). It was during this time that the magnificent [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hagia_Sophia Hagia Sophia] church which still dominates Istanbul's skyline was built. Eventually the Empire went into decline and by the time of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fourth_Crusade Fourth Crusade] was so weakened that the crusaders [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fourth_Crusade#Final_capture_of_Constantinople] captured it 1204.  In 1261 the Byzantines recovered their city and the Empire, a shadow of its glorious past, lingered for over 200 more years.
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|}
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====Dolma Baçe Palace====
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In the meantime, around the 11th century a Turkish tribe, the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seljuq Seljuqs] started migrating and conquering lands in Anatolia. Their empire collapsed in the 13th. One of its constituent Turkish tribes, the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sögüt Söğüt] settled in the river valley of Sakarya and started to fill the vacuum. They became known as "Ottomans" after [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Osman_I Osman] (1258–1326) one of their early leaders who united them.  By the time [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mehmed_II Mehmet I|] became their sultan in 1451 they had become the major power and dominated all the former Byzantine lands. Fulfilling [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murad_II Murad’s] (his father) dream in April 1453 he besieged Constantinople and on 29 May 1453 the city fell and the Byzantine Empire ceased to exist.
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{|
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|valign="top"|[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dolmabahçe_Palace Dolma Baçe], on the bank of the [[Bosphorus]], was the palace of the last Ottoman Emperors from 1853 to 1922. It is interesting to visit for its gross opulence as it tries to imitate the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palace_of_Versailles Palace of Versailles]. The palace was built between 1842 and 1853 during the reign of Sultan [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abdülmecid Abdülmecid].
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The city now was the capital of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ottoman_Empire Ottoman Empire] which for dominated the Mediterranean region for the next 400 years. It was a large, cosmopolitan, and for its day fairly enlightened empire. Under it many cultures flourished. At the height of its power (16th–17th century), it spanned three continents, controlling much of Southeastern Europe, the Middle East and North Africa. It stretched from the Strait of Gibraltar (and, in 1553, the Atlantic coast of Morocco beyond Gibraltar) in the west to the Caspian Sea and Persian Gulf in the east, and from the edge of Austria, Hungary and parts of Ukraine in the north to Sudan, Eritrea, Somalia and Yemen in the south. On November 1, 1922 the last emperor, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mehmed_VI Mehmed VI], following Turkey's defeat in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_I World War I], was deposed and on  October 29, 1923 the Ottoman Empire also eased to exist. It was succeeded by the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Republic_of_Turkey Republic of Turkey] with its capital in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ankara Ankara]. The Republic's leader [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mustafa_Kemal_Atatürk Mustafa Kemal Atatürk], the father of modern Turkey, started a vast modernization campaign bringing his country into the 20th century.
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|[[Image:Istanbul_Dolmabace.jpg|200px|thumb|right|Dolma Baçe Palace<br/>''Click for larger view'']]
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====Places to Visit====
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|}
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There are so many things to see and do in Istanbul that we cannot possibly cover but the barest essentials. It is best to consult one of the many tourist guides.
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====Grand Bazaar====
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=====Hagia Sophia=====
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{|
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{{Image right|AgiaSofiaInterior.jpg |The majestic interior of Hagia Sophia  }}
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|valign="top"|The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Bazaar%2C_Istanbul Grand Bazaar] is the large Istanbul market. It is is one of the largest covered markets in the world with more than 58 streets and 6,000 shops, and has between 250,000 and 400,000 visitors per day.
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One can wonder for days in its endless stoas and narrow streets dodging the all too eager vendors. Everything from jewels to dry fruits is being sold here.
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[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hagia_Sophia Hagia Sophia], the Byzantine Cathedral of Constantinoupolis, now a museum. It is one of the most important architectural monuments ever built and its huge dome one of the most ambitious architectural achievements of all time.
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|[[Image:Istanbul_GrBaz2.jpg|200px|thumb|right|The Grand Bazaar<br/>''Click for larger view'']]
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Hagia Sophia was built during the rain of the emperor [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Justinian_I Justinian] and was designed by the mathematician [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anthemius_of_Tralles Anthemius] and the physicist [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isidore_of_Miletus Isidoros]. It was completed in 537 AD.  The interior is simply breathtaking in its scale and there are some wonderful mosaics, especially in the gallery (which should not be missed).
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|}
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====Basilica Cistern====
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There is an admission charge, since Hagia Sofia is now a state museum. It is closed on Mondays. If you are to see only one thing in Istanbul, make sure it is Hagia Sophia.
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[[Image:Istanbul_Basilica_Cistern.jpg|200px|thumb|right|The Basilica Cistern<br/>''Click for larger view'']]
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The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basilica_Cistern Basilica Cistern] is a most impressive underground cistern. It was bult in during the reign of emperor [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Justinian_I Justinian I] in the 6th century. It is an underground chamber of 143 by 65 metres with 336 marble columns. It is easy visit as it is right accross from Hagia Sophia.
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===Fuel, Water, & Electricity===
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{{Image center|AgiaSofiaExterior.jpg |Exterior of Hagia Sophia  |500px }}
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* Fuel - Both the [[Atakoy_Marina|Ataköy]] and [[Kalamış_&_Fenerbahçe_Marinas|Kalamis]] marinas have a fueling dock
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* Water - Both the [[Atakoy_Marina|Ataköy]] and [[Kalamış_&_Fenerbahçe_Marinas|Kalamis]] marinas provide water to each berthed yacht at the dock
+
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* Electricity - Both the [[Atakoy_Marina|Ataköy]] and [[Kalamış_&_Fenerbahçe_Marinas|Kalamis]] marinas provide electricity outlets for each yacht at the dock
+
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===Laundry===
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=====Blue Mosque=====
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* There are laundry machines in [[Atakoy_Marina|Ataköy Marina]]
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{{Image right|BlueMosque.jpg |Blue or Sultan Ahmed Mosque  }}
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* The staff of the [[Kalamıs_& Fenerbahce_Marinas|Kalamış & Fenerbahçe Marinas]] can arrange for next day laundry service at a high price. They do not wash underwear!
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===Grocery & Supply Stores===
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Another architectural wonder, just across from Hagia Sophia, is the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sultan_Ahmed_Mosque Blue Mosque] or Sultan Ahmed Mosque. It is a magnificent building, completed in 1616. Its combination of ceramic tiles, stained glass windows, and colorful carpets make the visit to its interior a virtual aesthetic feast.
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* There are several supermarkets within walking distance from [[Kalamış_&_Fenerbahçe_Marinas|Kalamis Marina]]
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{{hold vertical}}
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* Of course, there is the [[#Grand_Bazaar|Grand Bazaar]] where you can find almost anything.
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===Eateries===
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=====Topkapi Palace=====
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* In general there are numerous very good restaurants in Istanbul
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{{Image right|Istanbul_TopKap1.jpg |The Courtyard of the Favorites in Topkapi }}
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* The ''Darüzziyafe'' is a traditional Turkish restaurant near the Süleymaniye Cami (Mosque), its food is outstanding
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* The restaurant within the [[Kalamış_&_Fenerbahçe_Marinas|Kalamis]] compound serves excellent food
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===Internet/WiFi===
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[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topkapi_Palace Topkapi Palace] was the sultan's (Ottoman Emperor’s) residence from 1465 to 1853. Construction of the palace was started in 1459 AD under Sultan [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mehmed_II Mehmed II]. At one time it housed about 4,000 people.
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In the marinas and in cafés.
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===Motorbike & Car Rentals===
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Now it a museum where you can see magnificently illuminated manuscripts, the Prophet's bow and sword, the famous emerald-encrusted dagger of Mehmed II (remember the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topkapi_%28film%29 Topkapi movie] with Melina Merkouri and Peter Ustinov), the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spoonmaker%27s_Diamond Spoonmaker's Diamond], etc.
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Car rental can be arranges at the marinas, however, driving in Istanbul is not for the faint hearted.
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===Marine Stores & Facilities===
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You can also visit the [http://www.turkishodyssey.com/places/marmara/marmara2.htm#Harem harem] section which was opened to the public just a few years ago. The harem has some of the most beautiful tilework to be found anywhere in Turkey as well as some wonderful stained glass.  It is really hard to see how about 400 women were kept indoors, prisoners for life, in such a small, although gilded, cage. From the harem one has access to a lovely garden overlooking the [[Sea of Marmara]].
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* There is a chandlery within [[Atakoy_Marina|Ataköy Marina]]
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* There is a chandlery near the [[Kalamış_&_Fenerbahçe_Marinas|Kalamis Marina]]
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* The best chandleries, however, can be found in the Karaköy district
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===Repairs===
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{{Image center|TopkapiInterior.jpg |The Crown Prince’s quarters, Topkapi Palace  |500px }}
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*
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===Transportation===
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=====Istanbul Archaeological Museum=====
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* International airport with connections almost anywhere in the world.
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{{Image right|AlexanderSarcophagus.jpg |The famous Alexander Sarcophagus  }}
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===References & Publications===
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Often overlooked by visitors to the Topkapi Palace (in the grounds of which it lies) is the Istanbul Archaeological Museum. A visit here should not be missed.  Among the most interesting exhibits are several Hellenic sarcophagi excavated in Sidon (now in Lebanon), including a breathtaking carved marble one (known as the Alexander Sarcophagus) showing Alexander the Great at the battle of Issus on one side and Alexander hunting lion and deeron  the other.  Another enchanting sarcophagus shows a series of mourning women in poses which might have come straight from a pre-Raphaelite painting.  The museum has a good collection of Hellenic and Roman statuary, including some beautiful statues excavated at Miletus, such as one of Apollo with his lyre.  The museum also displays relics from Hittite, Assyrian and earlier Asian civilisations in a separate building.
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See [[Turkey#References_&_Publications|Turkey]].
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===Cruiser's Friends===
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=====Dolmabahçe Palace=====
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{{Image right|DolmabahceBosphorus.jpg |Dolmabahçe Palace  }}
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[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dolmabahçe_Palace Dolma Baçe], on the bank of the [[Bosphorus]], was the palace of the last Ottoman Emperors from 1853 to 1922. It is interesting to visit for its gross opulence as it tries to imitate the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palace_of_Versailles Palace of Versailles]. The palace was built between 1842 and 1853 during the reign of Sultan [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abdülmecid Abdülmecid].
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{{hold vertical}}
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=====Grand Bazaar=====
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{{Image right|GrandBazaar.jpg |The Grand Bazaar  }}
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The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Bazaar%2C_Istanbul Grand Bazaar], in Turkish Kapali Çarşi, is the largest Istanbul market. It is also one of the largest covered markets in the world, with more than 58 streets and 6,000 shops, and has between 250,000 and 400,000 visitors per day.
 +
 
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One can wonder for days in its endless vaulted alleyways and narrow streets, dodging the all too eager vendors. Everything from jewellery to lokum (Turkish delight) is on sale here.
 +
 
 +
=====Spice Bazaar=====
 +
The Spice Bazaar, in Turkish Misir Çarşisi, is close to the Yeni Çamii (New Mosque) and is also well worth a visit.  Smaller than the Grand Bazaar, it hosts a wide range of shops, many of which specialize in exotic spices from all over the world.  Outside the Spice Bazaar to the SE is the small but charming flower and pet bazaar, where every conceivable kind of flower seed, pets and luxury pet foods are on sale.
 +
 
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{{hgallery|
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{{himage|SpiceBazaar.jpg|The Spice Bazaar|1600x200}}
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{{himage|PetBazaar.jpg|The Pet and  Flower Bazaar|1600x200}}
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}}
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=====Basilica Cistern=====
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{{Image right|Istanbul_Basilica_Cistern.jpg |The Basilica Cistern  }}
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The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basilica_Cistern Basilica Cistern] is a most impressive underground cistern. It was built during the reign of emperor [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Justinian_I Justinian I] in the 6th century. It is an underground chamber of 143 by 65 metres with 336 marble columns. It is easy visit as it is right across from Hagia Sophia.
 +
 
 +
==Friends==
Contact details of "Cruiser's Friends" that can be contacted for local information or assistance.
Contact details of "Cruiser's Friends" that can be contacted for local information or assistance.
*  
*  
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===Forum Discussions===
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==Forums==
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List links to discussion threads on the Cruiser Log Forum
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List links to discussion threads on [[Cruising Forums|partnering forums]]. (''see link for requirements'')
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*
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===External Links===
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==Links==
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* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Istanbul Istanbul] (Wikipedia)
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* {{Wikipedia}}
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* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constantinople Constantinoupolis]
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* {{Wikivoyage}}
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* {{Wikipedia|Constantinople|Constantinoupolis}}
*  
*  
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===Personal Notes===
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==References==
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Personal experiences?
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''See [[Turkey#References_&_Publications|Turkey]]''.
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====''Last Visited & Details Checked (and updated here)''====
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{{Comments}}
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''Date of member's visit to this Port/Stop & this page's details validated'':
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* August 1999 --[[User:Istioploos|Istioploos]] 15:55, 21 July 2008 (MDT)
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{{Verified by}}
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* August 1999 --[[User:Istioploos|Istioploos]] [[Image:Greece_Icon.png]]
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* June 2011 --[[User:Atheneoflymington|Athene of Lymington]] 19:54, 9 June 2011 (BST)
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*
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{{Contributors|[[User:Istioploos|Istioploos]], [[User:Atheneoflymington|Athene of Lymington]], [[User:Rr7|Rr7]]}}
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|style="color:#000;"| | [[Cruising_and_Sailing_Wiki_by_CruiserLog|HOMEPAGE]] | [[Cruising|Wiki Contents]] | [[Med|Mediterranean]] | [[Turkey]] | [[Marmara Sea]] | [[Istanbul]] |
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Latest revision as of 10:08, 22 August 2018

World ▶ Mediterranean ▶ Turkey ▶ Sea of Marmara ▶ Istanbul

Contents

Istanbul
Port of Entry
41°00.817'N, 028°57.300'E Chart icon.png
lat=41.013611 | lon=28.955 | zoom=12 | y
Turkey Istanbul r.jpg
Magnify-clip.png
Chart of Istanbul Region

Today's Istanbul is a thriving city, and with its history and monuments one of the most fascinating places that a cruiser, or any other visitor, can visit.

Charts

BA
224 Maramara Denizi
1005 Marmara Adasi to Istanbul Boğazi
NIMA
55040 Sea of Marmara
Turkey
29 Marmara Sea
292 İstanbul - Mudanya


Weather

See Turkey.

Passages

Islands

Marmara Islands Marmara Islands/wiki/Marmara_Islands
Princes Islands Princes Islands/wiki/Princes_Islands

Communication

Also see World Cruiser's Nets.

Navigation

The approach to Istanbul and Bosphorus, the narrow channel that separates Europe from Asia from the sea is one of the most breathtaking sites one can ever see. You can see the Bosphorus Bridge, suspension bridge; Agia Sophia; the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace to the north, and the palaces and mansions which line both sides of the channel.

The traffic in the narrow channel is horrific. Boats are everywhere: large steamers coming from or going to the Black Sea, ferryboats cutting across at high speed, cruise ships, motor cruisers, small fishing boats, even a couple of sail boats all in an anarchic mess, totally oblivious of any rules of navigation regarding mutual avoidance but doing so as if by miracle. The water is also very polluted.

See also Sea of Marmara.

Entrance

If you are either entering or exiting Turkey the staff of the marinas may be able to help you. But, bear in mind that these marinas mainly cater to local yachts and their staff may not be very familiar with the official procedures. The Turkish officials are in the Karaköy district. It is better to go there yourself.

For details see Turkey.

Berthing

There are several anchorages near Istanbul. The two most important are the Ataköy and the Kalamis Marinas.

Marinas & Yacht Clubs

West Istanbul Marina

West Istanbul Marina/wiki/Istanbul#West_Istanbul_Marina
Berth icon West Istanbul Marina [[Istanbul#West Istanbul Marina|West Istanbul Marina]] 40°57.714'N, 028°39.630'E

new and with all service, cheaper then the other marinas but far out of the city.

XX@XXX; Tel: +90 212 850 22 00; Fax: +XX XX XXXX-XXXX; VHF channel XX
Address: Yaakuplu Marmara Mah., Ulusum Cad. No:28, 34524 Beylikdüzü Organize Sanayi Bölgesi/Beylikdüzü/Beylikdüzü/İstanbul, Turkey
Hours: 8:00 to 16:00

Anchorages

See Bosphorus.


Amenities

Facilities
Water Both the Ataköy and Kalamis marinas provide water to each berthed yacht at the dock
Electricity Both the Ataköy and Kalamis marinas provide electricity outlets for each yacht at the dock
Toilets In the marinas
Showers In the marinas
Laundry
Garbage There are bins around the marinas
Supplies
Fuel Both the Ataköy and Kalamis marinas have a fueling dock
Bottled gas ?
Chandlers
  • There is a chandlery within Ataköy Marina
  • There is a chandlery near the Kalamis Marina
  • The best chandleries, however, can be found in the Karaköy district
Services
Repairs See marina entries
Internet In the marinas and in cafés
Mobile connectivity Strong 4G signal in most places
Vehicle rentals Car rental can be arranges at the marinas, however, driving in Istanbul is not for the faint hearted

Provisioning

  • There are several supermarkets within walking distance from Kalamis Marina
  • A huge Migros supermarket is about 10 minutes' walk from Ataköy Marina
  • Of course, there is the Grand Bazaar where you can find almost anything

Eating out

  • In general there are numerous very good restaurants in Istanbul
  • The Darüzziyafe is a traditional Turkish restaurant near the Süleymaniye Cami (Mosque), its food is outstanding
  • The restaurant within the Kalamis compound serves excellent food
  • From Ataköy Marina, it is a 10-15 minute walk to the suburb of Yesilkoy, where there are fast food establishments, cafes and restaurants to meet every taste

Transportation

  • Two International airport with connections almost anywhere in the world.
  • Links to the official Bus, Train and Ferry operators websites that contain route maps and timetables are at Public transport in Istanbul Wikipedia webpage - External Links section.

Tourism

History

Istanbul (Εις την Πόλι - is tin Poli - to the city) the capital of the Byzantine Empire, Κωνσταντινούπολις (Constantinoupolis - the city of Constantine) or, as it is known to all the Greeks, simply as "η Πόλις" (i Polis - the City) has been dominating the history of Eastern Mediterranean for almost 1800 years. Today it is a thriving metropolis of 7,550,000 inhabitants and Turkey's largest city. It is a fascinating place where East meets West, Islam meets Christianity, and Greeks meet Turks. Istanbul started life as a modest Greek settlement, Byzantium, founded by colonists from Megara. In 330 AD the Roman Emperor Constantine moved the capital of his empire to Byzantium and renamed it Nova Roma (New Rome). At his death the empire was split by his sons into the Western and Eastern Roman Empires. The later evolved into the Byzantine Empire. The original language of the empire was, of course, Latin but later in the 7th century it was supplanted by Greek.

The Empire reached its peak during the rein of Justinian and Theodora (483 - 548). It was during this time that the magnificent Hagia Sophia church which still dominates Istanbul's skyline was built. Eventually the Empire went into decline and by the time of the Fourth Crusade was so weakened that the crusaders [1] captured it 1204. In 1261 the Byzantines recovered their city and the Empire, a shadow of its glorious past, lingered for over 200 more years.

In the meantime, around the 11th century a Turkish tribe, the Seljuqs started migrating and conquering lands in Anatolia. Their empire collapsed in the 13th. One of its constituent Turkish tribes, the Söğüt settled in the river valley of Sakarya and started to fill the vacuum. They became known as "Ottomans" after Osman (1258–1326) one of their early leaders who united them. By the time Mehmet I| became their sultan in 1451 they had become the major power and dominated all the former Byzantine lands. Fulfilling Murad’s (his father) dream in April 1453 he besieged Constantinople and on 29 May 1453 the city fell and the Byzantine Empire ceased to exist.

The city now was the capital of the Ottoman Empire which for dominated the Mediterranean region for the next 400 years. It was a large, cosmopolitan, and for its day fairly enlightened empire. Under it many cultures flourished. At the height of its power (16th–17th century), it spanned three continents, controlling much of Southeastern Europe, the Middle East and North Africa. It stretched from the Strait of Gibraltar (and, in 1553, the Atlantic coast of Morocco beyond Gibraltar) in the west to the Caspian Sea and Persian Gulf in the east, and from the edge of Austria, Hungary and parts of Ukraine in the north to Sudan, Eritrea, Somalia and Yemen in the south. On November 1, 1922 the last emperor, Mehmed VI, following Turkey's defeat in World War I, was deposed and on October 29, 1923 the Ottoman Empire also eased to exist. It was succeeded by the Republic of Turkey with its capital in Ankara. The Republic's leader Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the father of modern Turkey, started a vast modernization campaign bringing his country into the 20th century.

Places to Visit

There are so many things to see and do in Istanbul that we cannot possibly cover but the barest essentials. It is best to consult one of the many tourist guides.

Hagia Sophia
The majestic interior of Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia, the Byzantine Cathedral of Constantinoupolis, now a museum. It is one of the most important architectural monuments ever built and its huge dome one of the most ambitious architectural achievements of all time.

Hagia Sophia was built during the rain of the emperor Justinian and was designed by the mathematician Anthemius and the physicist Isidoros. It was completed in 537 AD. The interior is simply breathtaking in its scale and there are some wonderful mosaics, especially in the gallery (which should not be missed).

There is an admission charge, since Hagia Sofia is now a state museum. It is closed on Mondays. If you are to see only one thing in Istanbul, make sure it is Hagia Sophia.

Exterior of Hagia Sophia
Blue Mosque
Blue or Sultan Ahmed Mosque

Another architectural wonder, just across from Hagia Sophia, is the Blue Mosque or Sultan Ahmed Mosque. It is a magnificent building, completed in 1616. Its combination of ceramic tiles, stained glass windows, and colorful carpets make the visit to its interior a virtual aesthetic feast.

Topkapi Palace
The Courtyard of the Favorites in Topkapi

Topkapi Palace was the sultan's (Ottoman Emperor’s) residence from 1465 to 1853. Construction of the palace was started in 1459 AD under Sultan Mehmed II. At one time it housed about 4,000 people.

Now it a museum where you can see magnificently illuminated manuscripts, the Prophet's bow and sword, the famous emerald-encrusted dagger of Mehmed II (remember the Topkapi movie with Melina Merkouri and Peter Ustinov), the Spoonmaker's Diamond, etc.

You can also visit the harem section which was opened to the public just a few years ago. The harem has some of the most beautiful tilework to be found anywhere in Turkey as well as some wonderful stained glass. It is really hard to see how about 400 women were kept indoors, prisoners for life, in such a small, although gilded, cage. From the harem one has access to a lovely garden overlooking the Sea of Marmara.

The Crown Prince’s quarters, Topkapi Palace
Istanbul Archaeological Museum
The famous Alexander Sarcophagus

Often overlooked by visitors to the Topkapi Palace (in the grounds of which it lies) is the Istanbul Archaeological Museum. A visit here should not be missed. Among the most interesting exhibits are several Hellenic sarcophagi excavated in Sidon (now in Lebanon), including a breathtaking carved marble one (known as the Alexander Sarcophagus) showing Alexander the Great at the battle of Issus on one side and Alexander hunting lion and deeron the other. Another enchanting sarcophagus shows a series of mourning women in poses which might have come straight from a pre-Raphaelite painting. The museum has a good collection of Hellenic and Roman statuary, including some beautiful statues excavated at Miletus, such as one of Apollo with his lyre. The museum also displays relics from Hittite, Assyrian and earlier Asian civilisations in a separate building.

Dolmabahçe Palace
Dolmabahçe Palace

Dolma Baçe, on the bank of the Bosphorus, was the palace of the last Ottoman Emperors from 1853 to 1922. It is interesting to visit for its gross opulence as it tries to imitate the Palace of Versailles. The palace was built between 1842 and 1853 during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid.

Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar, in Turkish Kapali Çarşi, is the largest Istanbul market. It is also one of the largest covered markets in the world, with more than 58 streets and 6,000 shops, and has between 250,000 and 400,000 visitors per day.

One can wonder for days in its endless vaulted alleyways and narrow streets, dodging the all too eager vendors. Everything from jewellery to lokum (Turkish delight) is on sale here.

Spice Bazaar

The Spice Bazaar, in Turkish Misir Çarşisi, is close to the Yeni Çamii (New Mosque) and is also well worth a visit. Smaller than the Grand Bazaar, it hosts a wide range of shops, many of which specialize in exotic spices from all over the world. Outside the Spice Bazaar to the SE is the small but charming flower and pet bazaar, where every conceivable kind of flower seed, pets and luxury pet foods are on sale.

The Spice Bazaar
The Pet and Flower Bazaar
Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern is a most impressive underground cistern. It was built during the reign of emperor Justinian I in the 6th century. It is an underground chamber of 143 by 65 metres with 336 marble columns. It is easy visit as it is right across from Hagia Sophia.

Friends

Contact details of "Cruiser's Friends" that can be contacted for local information or assistance.

Forums

List links to discussion threads on partnering forums. (see link for requirements)

Links

References

See Turkey.

Comments

We welcome users' contributions to the Wiki. Please click on Comments to view other users' comments, add your own personal experiences or recommend any changes to this page following your visit.

Verified by

Date of member's last visit to Istanbul and this page's details validated:



This is a usable page of the cruising guide. However, please contribute if you can to help it grow further. Click on Comments to add your personal notes on this page or to discuss its contents. Alternatively, if you feel confident to edit the page, click on the edit tab at the top and enter your changes directly.


SailorSmiley.gifContributors to this page

Names: Istioploos, Athene of Lymington, Rr7


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