The marinas in Istanbul are vital areas that add a charming touch to the city, turning it into a prime maritime destination that blends culture, history, economy, and entertainment. Due to its strategic geographical location between Asia and Europe, Istanbul stands out as one of the cities offering promising opportunities for real estate investment around its marine areas.

Locations of Marinas in Istanbul

1. Kiyi Istanbul Marina (Buyukcekmece Marina):

 Located on the European side of Istanbul, it is characterized by its proximity to highways, the metrobus line, and easy accessibility through the public transportation network and highways. The Kiyi Istanbul Marina is a massive investment project at the heart of Buyukcekmece, spanning the Marmara Sea coast and the E5 highway. Developed by German and Swiss entrepreneurs with a budget of 500 million Euros and covering an area of 274,000 square meters, it can accommodate 1,000 yachts. The design of the marina was inspired by the seven hills upon which Istanbul was founded, featuring seven squares named after world capitals such as Berlin, Paris, and London. The open spaces can host 3,000 visitors at once. The project includes a children's play area of 5,000 square meters, a cinema hall of 4,000 square meters, a meeting hall for 1,000 people, and 152 luxury rooms along with swimming pools, a spa, and an 8,000 square meter terrace offering panoramic views of the marina. It provides multi-level parking for 3,200 vehicles and is located just minutes from transportation services such as the IDO ferry and public transport stations along the E5 highway. Buyukcekmece is a flourishing urban center boasting schools, hospitals like Medical Center Hospital, entertainment centers, and public parks, making it a region with a strong infrastructure and attractive investments, thanks to its splendid coastal location.

2. Atakoy Marina:

Atakoy Marina, located on the European side of Istanbul, is one of the city's most prominent marinas and is a favored destination for both yacht owners and tourists. Situated in the Bakirkoy district, it has a strategic location near the city center and vibrant areas, making it an excellent starting point for exploring the city and its surroundings. Atakoy Marina is among the most luxurious marinas in Turkey and is an internationally recognized brand, thanks to its unique location, experienced staff, and exceptional service concept. The marina has reached a capacity of 1,000 boats with the recently opened massive yacht harbor. Atakoy Marina offers modern mooring facilities and excellent maintenance for yachts and boats with world-class services. The marina provides electricity, water, fuel, and wireless internet service. It also boasts a variety of upscale restaurants and cafes offering diverse dining experiences for both residents and visitors. Additionally, there are luxury shops that cater to shopping enthusiasts. The area surrounding Atakoy Marina offers numerous entertainment options, such as fitness centers, spa resorts, and open green spaces, making it an ideal destination for relaxation. The marina provides round-the-clock security services to ensure the safety of visitors and yachts, making it a secure place for extended boat moorings.

3. West Istanbul Marina:

Located in the Beylikduzu area along the Marmara Sea coast, West Istanbul Marina is a top maritime destination dedicated to luxury and tourism in Istanbul. The marina has a harbor capacity of 600 yachts, along with advanced facilities accommodating 300 yachts on land. It is the first in Turkey to implement a rack system for boats. The marina offers a variety of services, including a fueling station, yacht maintenance, storage warehouses, swimming pools, beach club, and various sports and social facilities. There are also shops, a supermarket, restaurants, cafes, a yacht market, and a sailing club, making it a residential community built around the marina. West Istanbul Marina enhances local tourism and attracts visitors from around the world due to its comprehensive services and excellent location. It is a major attraction for luxury yachts, thanks to its advanced technical facilities and modern security systems. The marina contributes to increasing property values in the Beylikduzu area, leading to a higher demand and the development of luxurious residential projects targeting the affluent class, with property prices rising compared to other areas in Istanbul. This unique seaport is not just a place for yacht docking; it represents a luxurious lifestyle centered around a community with integrated services and entertainment.

4. Kalamis & Fenerbahce Marina:

Located in the Kadikoy district on the Asian side of Istanbul, this marina is one of the most renowned due to its proximity to the city center and the beauty of its surroundings. Kalamis Marina offers excellent services for yachts and sailing boats and attracts numerous maritime events and festivals. It is one of Turkey's top marinas, combining luxury with advanced services for individuals and sea enthusiasts. The marina provides a strategic location near the city center, making it an ideal destination for both tourists and residents. It accommodates a large number of yachts and boats, offering all necessary services, including electricity, water, internet connectivity, and maintenance and repair services. The area surrounding the marina boasts a range of upscale restaurants, cafes, shopping centers, and recreational activities. It hosts maritime and cultural events that draw many visitors throughout the year. The marina offers beautiful views of the sea and nearby green spaces perfect for relaxation and walking, making it a beloved spot for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. It is easily accessible via public transportation such as the metro and buses and is near major roads leading to various parts of Istanbul, making it a convenient destination for many. Kalamis & Fenerbahce Marina is not only a port for yachts but a comprehensive experience combining luxury with social and recreational activities, adding a new dimension to modern life in Istanbul.

5. Pendik Marina:

Pendik Marina is situated on the Asian side of Istanbul, in the Pendik area, and is one of the prominent marinas offering exceptional services for yacht and boat owners. This marina has a strategically important location due to its proximity to Sabiha Gokcen International Airport and major transport networks, making it an ideal destination for both residents and visitors. Pendik Marina provides world-class mooring facilities, including electricity, water, and Wi-Fi services, along with a range of maintenance and repair services. The area features a selection of fine dining restaurants and cafes offering diverse culinary experiences, along with green spaces and recreational areas for children and families. The marina includes advanced security systems operating 24/7 to ensure the safety of visitors and yachts, making it a safe and comfortable place for long stays or day visits.

6. Tarabya Marina:

Located in the northern part of Istanbul on the Bosphorus Strait, Tarabya Marina is a distinguished port catering to the affluent and those seeking a unique seaside view. Situated on the European side of Istanbul in the Sariyer area, it is one of the luxurious marinas overlooking the Bosphorus. Tarabya is renowned as one of Istanbul's upscale areas, offering stunning sea views and a blend of comfort and luxury. Tarabya Marina provides an ideal location on the Bosphorus, making it a favored destination for yacht owners and tourists looking for a luxurious marine experience. The marina offers advanced yacht services, including mooring facilities, electricity, water, and maintenance services, ensuring a comfortable and secure experience for boat owners. The marina is surrounded by a selection of fine dining restaurants and premium cafes offering diverse dining experiences, along with resorts and shops catering to visitors' needs. Tarabya Marina is a hub for marine activities and a key spot for boat events and water sports, attracting visitors from Turkey and abroad to enjoy the natural beauty of the Bosphorus and the excellent nearby facilities.

7. Viaport Marina:

Located in the Tuzla district on the Asian side of Istanbul, Viaport Marina is one of the prominent maritime and entertainment destinations that combines shopping, entertainment, and water sports. This marina is distinguished by its multiple facilities, making it a favorite destination for families, tourists, and sea enthusiasts. Viaport Marina offers a wide range of recreational activities, including amusement parks and a water park, providing an enjoyable experience for the entire family. The marina features an open-air shopping center with a variety of stores offering both local and international products. Additionally, there are restaurants and cafes providing different dining options to suit all tastes. Viaport Marina provides excellent facilities for docking yachts and small boats, along with necessary maintenance services, making it a comfortable spot for boat owners. It is a primary destination for family tourism and entertainment in Istanbul, attracting visitors from both within Turkey and abroad, thanks to its unique mix of water activities, entertainment, and shopping.

Importance of Marinas in Istanbul:

Marinas play a crucial role in boosting the local economy and attracting both tourists and investors. They serve not only as docking areas for boats and yachts but also offer recreational facilities, restaurants, cafes, and shopping centers, thereby enhancing the economic value of the surrounding area. According to 2023 statistics, maritime tourism contributed approximately 12% to Istanbul's total tourism, highlighting the growing economic importance of marinas. Additionally, marinas significantly contribute to positioning Istanbul on the global map for maritime tourism, attracting thousands of visitors and tourists annually, which supports the tourism sector and increases economic revenues. Marinas also enhance the quality and diversity of public amenities, including restaurants, cafes, and shopping centers, benefiting both residents and tourists. Moreover, marinas provide advanced facilities for mooring and yacht maintenance, improving marine services and attracting boat owners from around the world. They host various maritime and cultural events and festivals, fostering social and cultural connections within the community while providing spaces for social interaction and entertainment, thereby improving the quality of life for residents.

Future of Real Estate Investment Around Marinas in Istanbul:

The areas surrounding marinas in Istanbul hold strong investment opportunities, with real estate prices expected to increase by 8% to 15% annually, according to Turkish real estate market reports from the past two years. This increase is attributed to infrastructure improvements and the development of multi-purpose projects near these facilities. Local authorities plan to develop a new maritime transport line connecting the main marinas in Istanbul, which will boost tourist traffic and enhance the value of real estate investments. In addition to investing in luxury residential complexes and international hotels, there is a focus on building commercial and entertainment centers to attract both locals and tourists.

• West Istanbul Marina: This marina has seen a 20% increase in real estate investment over the past five years, due to expansion projects and exceptional services offered.
• IMM Internationals Report 2023: The report indicated that Istanbul welcomed three million maritime tourists in the specified year, resulting in approximately one billion dollars in profits from commercial and tourist activities related to the marinas.