Culture, Art, and Music in the Waters of the Bosphorus: The “İstanbul Arası” Journey Begins!

How about taking an elegant break from Istanbul’s daily hustle and bustle in the cool waters of the Bosphorus? Brought to life by İBB Kültür AŞ, the “İstanbul Arası” project, which allows you to rediscover the city’s countless hidden stories with the magical touch of art, sets sail from Kabataş Pier.

Transforming an ordinary Bosphorus tour into a multi-layered cultural experience, this concept brings together theater, guided narration, and live music on the same ferry.

One Ferry, Three Experiences: A Break in the City

“İstanbul Arası” promises its participants an immersive evening extending to literary and historical memory, far beyond a ferry ride. Starting with a live music welcome at Kabataş Pier at 19:45, this special night consists of three main pillars:

• Museum of Monologues Theater Performance: Right after the ferry departs at 20:00, spectators become part of the play through interactive theater performances spreading across different areas of the venue.

• Hidden Stories of the Bosphorus (Guided Narration): Designed to listen to Istanbul following the traces of poets and writers, this section embarks on a short but enchanting journey into the city’s memory.

• Acoustic Concert on the Terrace: Following a short break on the Bosphorus, the night culminates in a special concert taking place on the open terrace of the ferry, featuring a different star name each time.

Star-Studded “İstanbul Arası” Schedule

The first guest of this unique journey, which will take place with limited capacity and extend from late summer to autumn, is Ayhan Sicimoğlu & Harikalar Bandosu, who will blend Latin rhythms with the Bosphorus breeze. In the following weeks, the most beloved names of the alternative music scene will blow a fresh wind on the ferry terrace.

• August 14, 2026: Ayhan Sicimoğlu & Harikalar Bandosu (Opening)

• August 28, 2026: Jakuzi on Piano

• September 11, 2026: Dilek Türkan

• September 25, 2026: Büyük Ev Ablukada

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the “İstanbul Arası” journey start and how long does it take?

Doors open at 19:45 at Kabataş Pier. The ferry departs at exactly 20:00. Following the performances and concert, it returns to Kabataş Pier at 23:00.

How much are the ticket prices and where can they be purchased?

Category 1 tickets for events with limited capacity are offered for sale at 1,980 TL. Tickets can only be obtained via Passo (passo.com.tr).

What are the participation terms for the event?

There is an age limit of 18 for the event. Additionally, entering the event area with professional audio and video recording equipment (video cameras, etc.) is not allowed. Since the ferry departure time is strict (20:00), no refunds will be made in case of delay; therefore, it is of vital importance to be at the pier at 19:45.