Istanbul Naval Museum

Overview

The Naval Museum in Beşiktaş houses one of the world's finest collections of Ottoman maritime artefacts, including elaborately gilded imperial caiques (royal rowboats) that once carried sultans along the Bosphorus.

Highlights

• Imperial caiques: Fourteen gilded rowing barges, some up to 40 m long, displayed in a purpose-built gallery.
• Navigation instruments: Ottoman-era astrolabes, compasses and charts.
• Submarine tower: The conning tower of the TCG Sakarya submarine sits in the outdoor garden.

History

Founded in 1897, the museum traces the Ottoman navy from its early galleys through the Gallipoli campaign to modern-day Turkish naval operations.

Visitor Tips

• Tip: Closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Combine with Beşiktaş waterfront stroll.
• Duration: 45–75 minutes.