İstanbul Bans Unauthorized Bosphorus Coast Structures for Tourist Boats
Bosphorus Bridge
The İstanbul Governorship has issued a new decision restricting the use of unauthorized coastal structures along the Bosphorus, directly impacting tourist boats and commercial yachts. The ruling comes amid growing concerns over illegal electricity connections, fuel supply risks, and inadequate infrastructure threatening both public and environmental safety.
The decision, published under file number 2025/2 on August 25, 2025, targets daily excursion boats, sightseeing vessels, floating facilities, and commercial yachts operating for tourism purposes.
Unauthorized Docks and Structures Prohibited
According to the ruling, boats measuring 24 meters and above are no longer allowed to pick up or drop off passengers at unlicensed piers, wharfs, or mooring points. Only facilities authorized by the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure’s Directorate General of Shipyards and Coastal Structures may be used.
The Governorship emphasized that the measure was taken to safeguard life and property security, public order, environmental health, and navigational safety in one of the world’s busiest waterways.
Rising Risks in the Bosphorus
The announcement highlighted multiple hazards created by unregulated activities:
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Fire risks due to unauthorized fuel supply
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Illegal electricity connections compromising safety
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Inadequate infrastructure failing to support marine operations
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Unlicensed facilities increasing accident potential
Authorities noted that the Bosphorus requires strict regulation due to its heavy traffic and critical role in maritime navigation.
Stricter Controls for Operators
With the new decision, boat and yacht operators must conduct their activities exclusively through licensed coastal structures. The move is expected to intensify inspections and reduce risks caused by unmonitored tourism operations.
Officials stressed their legal responsibility to maintain public order and safety in all coastal and waterfront areas of İstanbul, reinforcing that violations will face legal action.