Straddling Europe and Asia, modern Turkey is built on a complex history that continues today. Successive waves of civilizations have crashed and clashed on its shores: Greek, Roman, Crusaders, Seljuk, Byzantium, Ottoman. Constantinople, now Istanbul, is the epicentre of that history. It is a modern, massive city with a remarkable setting. History, culture and tradition are everywhere, present in its buildings, walls, even the cobblestones. Graced by some of friendliest and hospitable people in the world, this is a destination for food, music, museums, shopping and just living life to its fullest. And of course, spectacular rowing. 

For starters, row in two continents on one short trip. The Golden Horn is one of Istanbul’s defining features. Approximately eight kilometres in length, the Haliç is an inlet of the Bosphorus dividing the European side of the city. From your sliding seat you can see the city walls, towering Ottoman mosques, 19th century churches and the iconic Galata Tower. Travel to Asia for the second row on the Sea of Marmara. It is a very different city here, with more modern towers. The destination is the historic Princes Islands, car free and charming, with good food and fascinating walks to be enjoyed. Another reason to join us is that we are able to accommodate different levels of rowing skill and experience – the details of the rows will be tailored to you or your group. The final reason to row here is that we can welcome a solo traveller or groups as big as 25 rowers, and everything in between.  

Rowing in ancient Constantinople is a captivating experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the historical and scenic beauty of Istanbul. The focus is on the rowing, but you will have ample time to be immersed in the history and culture of Turkey. You will have a personal tour guide who will make historical sites come alive. And then there is the food. Alper, your guide describes himself as “foody, very very foody” and this is good news. Think markets, mezze, kebabs and baklava. Try drinking raki, Turkish coffee, but also tea and excellent red and white wines including some grape variety unique to Turkey. This Experience is like one of the sweets you might enjoy – dense, rich and filled with lots of good things.  

Transfer from İstanbul Airport. Depending on arrival time, your guide will take you for a short walking tour near the Golden Horn and the Galata Bridge before the welcome dinner at a spectacular restaurant.

Transfer to the rowing club. After a briefing and a cup of coffee, enjoy rowing in the Golden Horn while watching the iconic places in the vicinity. Later transfer to the Sultanahmet area and start exploring the glorious highlights of Constantinople with a private guide. We visit Topkapi Palace, and then walk to the other splendid relics such as 400-year-old Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque), and 2000-year-old Roman Hippodrome and the Underground Cistern. and visit the Hagia Sophia Church, built in the first half of the 6th century, by Emperor Justinianus.  

Early morning transfer to the Asian side of İstanbul and if the weather permits row to the Prince Islands, then take a hike to explore the island before you return to the mainland. Visit the marketplace of Kadıköy and have a special lunch at famous Çiya Restaurant. Take the ferry to the European side and spend the afternoon at the Grand Bazaar, the Spice Market and the Galata area as the time permits.

If you wish a longer stay in Istanbul and would like our guide to assist with extending your hotel stay or other guided visits, please be in touch with Alper after registering for the Independent Rowing Experience.