Common questions
Common questions
The things people ask before they book. If yours is not here, get in touch.
What is the Bosphorus canoe experience?
It is a short guided paddle on the Bosphorus in Istanbul. You set out from the Salacak shore in Üsküdar and paddle up close to the Maiden's Tower. The whole session takes about an hour, with roughly fifty minutes on the water. A guide stays with the group throughout, and all the equipment is provided.
Do I need any experience?
No. The session is built for complete beginners. It starts with a safety briefing and a short paddling lesson on shore. Most people feel steady within a few minutes of setting out. Your guide stays close the whole time.
How long does it take?
Allow about one hour in total. Roughly fifty minutes of that is paddling on the water. The rest is the briefing at the start and tea at the end. Sessions run every hour, so it fits easily into a day of sightseeing.
How much does it cost and what is included?
It costs 30 US dollars per person. That covers the guided session, the safety briefing and paddling lesson, the canoe, paddles and life jacket, one small dry bag per canoe, and Turkish tea afterwards. There is nothing else to pay on the day.
Where do we meet?
You meet at the fishing harbour in Salacak, in the Üsküdar district on the Asian side. It faces the Maiden's Tower directly. You get the exact address and directions the moment your reservation is confirmed.
Is it safe?
Yes. Everyone wears a life jacket, and a guide is with the group at all times. The launch point at Salacak is sheltered from the strongest currents in the strait, which is why it is used for beginner sessions. Sessions do not run in bad weather.
Can children do it?
Children can join with an adult, sharing a double canoe. Families do this session often. Get in touch before you book if your child is young, so we can put you in the right boat.
What if I fall in?
It is unlikely, and it is not a problem. You wear a life jacket the whole time and your guide is close by. The canoes are stable and easy to sit in. This is why the briefing comes first.
What language is it run in?
Sessions run in English and Turkish. Say which you prefer when you book, and we will match you with the right guide.
How many people are in a group?
Ten at the most. Groups are kept small so the guide can stay close to everyone. It also means the session feels calm rather than crowded.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Safety comes first, so sessions do not run in strong wind or rough water. If we have to cancel, you can move to another time or another day at no cost. You have paid nothing up front either way.
How do I book and can I cancel?
You reserve online in under a minute and pay at the meeting point. You can cancel free up to 24 hours before your session. Booking closes two hours before each start time, so book ahead for the slot you want.
Ready to get on the water?
Pick a day and a time. You pay at the meeting point, and you can cancel free up to 24 hours before.
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