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Port of Istanbul

TRIST🇹🇷TR

Port Location

About Port of Istanbul

The Port of Istanbul (TRIST) is a maritime port facility located in TR. It features a maximum draft of 12m. The facility is classified as a very large-sized port. Local time zone: UTC+3.

Vessel capacity and restrictions: The controlling depth at Istanbul is 12 meters. Vessel masters should confirm current draft restrictions with the port authority before arrival.

Port classification: As a very large facility, Istanbul ranks among the highest-capacity ports in the region — typically equipped to handle ultra-large container vessels (ULCS), VLCC tankers, and capesize bulk carriers, with deep-water berths and full-service cargo terminals.

Position: 41.0223°N, 28.9861°E. UN/LOCODE: TRIST.

Geographic context: The Port of Istanbul is situated on the Mediterranean Sea, within the Mediterranean East-West corridor — a major trade route spanning the Mediterranean from Gibraltar to the Suez Canal. The location falls within the temperate maritime climate zone.

Vessel Limits

Max Draft
12m

General Information

Port Name
Istanbul
Country
🇹🇷TR
UNLOCODE
TRIST
Time Zone
UTC+3
Facility Size
Very Large
Latitude
41.0223°
Longitude
28.9861°

Navigation Aids Near Istanbul

Salıpazarı Wharf Lighthouse

0.4 NMNNE

Kız Kulesi Lighthouse

0.8 NME

Ahırkapı Lighthouse

1 NMS

Haydarpaşa Outer Breakwater Northwest Lighthouse

1.1 NMSE

Kadıköy Breakwater Lighthouse

2.2 NMSE

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the draft restrictions at the Port of Istanbul?+
The controlling depth at Istanbul is 12 meters. Draft restrictions should be confirmed with the port authority before arrival, as silting, dredging operations, and tidal conditions can affect available depths. Pilotage is typically required for larger vessels.
What types of cargo and vessels does the Port of Istanbul handle?+
As a very large-sized facility, Istanbul serves ultra-large container ships (ULCS), VLCC tankers, capesize bulkers, and the largest classes of ro-ro vessels. It offers deep-water berths, gantry cranes for container handling, and full-service cargo terminals. Vessel operators should contact the port authority for specific berth availability and cargo handling capabilities.
How do I navigate the approach to the Port of Istanbul?+
The approach to Istanbul is supported by 5 navigation aids within 50 nautical miles. The nearest is Salıpazarı Wharf Lighthouse at 0.4 NM to the NNE. Other aids include Kız Kulesi (0.8 NM E), Ahırkapı (1 NM S), Haydarpaşa Outer Breakwater Northwest (1.1 NM SE), Kadıköy Breakwater (2.2 NM SE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart and List of Lights for full approach details.
What major shipping routes pass near the Port of Istanbul?+
The Port of Istanbul is located within the Mediterranean East-West corridor — a major trade route spanning the Mediterranean from Gibraltar to the Suez Canal. This strategic position influences vessel traffic density, anchorage availability, and port scheduling.
How do I track vessels arriving at or departing from the Port of Istanbul?+
You can track vessels near Istanbul (TRIST) in real time using MarineRadar. The platform displays live AIS positions of nearby ships, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page or search for TRIST on the live map.
What are the operating hours and time zone for the Port of Istanbul?+
The Port of Istanbul operates in the UTC+3 time zone. Operating hours, VTS schedules, and pilot availability vary — vessel agents should confirm with the port authority in advance, especially for night arrivals or weekend operations.