Setur Kalamis Marina

Setur Kalamis is the larger of Istanbul's two marinas, offering a spectacular way to visit this historical former capital. Kalamis bay is considered to be one of the most beautiful in Turkey and lies on the Sea of Marmara, where dolphins chase the boats by day and stunning sunsets occur before nightfall.

The marina is another of Setur Marina's acquisitions, a Turkish company who own a chain of eight marinas that are maintained to a world-class standard. This means you can be certain to have a comfortable stay. Setur Kalamis is the head office of the company and is their biggest marina positioned close to the city centre.

The approach to the marina is 1.5 miles south of the entrance to the Bosporus and is well marked by the breakwaters and light towers. Inside there is room for 1,069 boats on the water and 220 on the shore – a huge marina, but this does not dilute its attractions. The maximum boat length is 70 metres and maximum depth 6.5 metres. The marina is well sheltered from north-north-east winds.

Like all Setur marinas, Setur Kalamis has been awarded a Blue Flag which certifies the highest standards of cleanliness and maintenance. Only 14 of Turkey's marinas have received this appraisal. This makes the Marina especially pleasant to stay in and its views can be enjoyed on foot along the numerous footpaths around the bay.

All your comfort needs are accounted for with water and electricity available on the water and at dry docks. The lift can carry weights of up to 60 tonnes. Laundry is collected from the boats and delivered directly to you. While a public telephone, internet and fax facilities are available at the dock, this marina also provides free Wi-Fi so you can surf the net from the comfort of your boat.

The marina offers comprehensive boat maintenance facilities including pressure washing, all kinds of winterising, battery charge, bilge control, aeration and engine running. Fuel can be brought to your vessel and painting, osmosis treatment, varnishing, outboard repair and marine carpentry, amongst others, are on offer at the marina workshop.

The marina provides 24-hour security in the form of a patrol dinghy and there is space for 375 cars in the car park. Transport is well organised and if you can't find everything you need the city is not far. Taxis are available at the main entrance and the nearest bus station for day drips is 25 kilometres away. However, the marina has its own restaurant and bars as well as a market and shops. Should you fall ill, a doctor is also available.  

It would take many days to explore all that Istanbul, a 3000-year-old city, has to offer. One of the highlights is a visit to the Hagia Sofia which is currently competing to become one of the new seven wonders of the world. The Sultanahmet Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Ahmet Fountain also come highly recommended.