Bosphorus Cup 2025 Preview: Sailing's theatre of the winds
by Quinag 10 Sep 04:00 AEST
17-20 September 2025
Bosphorus Cup © Sailing Energy
In one week's time the Bosphorus Cup will once again transform Istanbul into a stage where sport and culture collide. Now in its 24th edition, the event—scheduled from 17 to 20 September—will welcome nearly 1,000 sailors competing on 60 boats representing 10 nations.
The pinnacle moment of this spectacular occasion is the Bosphorus Race on Saturday, 20 September, where the fleet races up and down the length of the iconic strait that separates Europe from Asia.
It is a privilege granted only once a year. An unforgettable cultural and sporting experience in one of the world's great cities. Racing along the impressive waterway brings one close to the heart of this metropolis of 15 million. Ottoman palaces and medieval fortifications, and three magnificent suspension bridges feature along the course. With complex currents and wind shadows to master, it is a unique test of skill for any sailor. For spectators, it is a remarkable sight as the yachts tack right into the shore, fleetingly close enough to step onboard.
The pomp and circumstance that surround the Bosphorus Cup is already under way. At a special handover ceremony in Büyükada, the defending champion Berkcan Cankaya of Arkas Sailing Team returned the trophy to the organizers, indelibly marking the moment that one edition passes into the next.
"I have believed in the Bosphorus Cup from the very beginning, knowing that sailing in Istanbul is a truly unique experience," said Orhan Gorbon, a member of the New York Yacht Club and founder of the Bosphorus Cup. "Over the past quarter century, we have become one of the world's most compelling sailing events, attracting entries from around the world."
Between continents: an exceptional experience
Among the international crews are sailors drawn from around the world including, this year, the Dubai Offshore Sailing Club.
Greek owner George Procopiou, who campaigned his Volvo Ocean 70 Aiolos in 2024 described the event as more than a competition:
"The sea is the avenue that connects people. The sea is an avenue of friendship, an avenue of prosperity. The Bosphorus Cup reflects this, bringing together the civilisations of the Mediterranean, and I consider this regatta to be a regatta of friendship."
For Romanian skipper Valentin Oeru and his Swan 42CS Setsail, it is the distinctive character of the Bosphorus Race course that stands out:
"We love sailing at the Bosphorus Cup! It is the most exciting piece of water on the planet, a majestic and challenging waterway, stacked in history, dividing East and the West and in the heart of Istanbul."
And for Olivier Raison of the international MSC Sailing Team, the experience is unforgettable:
"The Bosphorus Cup is an incredible experience for sailors, in an amazing environment."
A celebration of sailing and culture
Organized with the support of the Turkish Sailing Federation, the Bosphorus Cup is backed by Çift Geyik Karaca, Bilyoner, Marti, Chery, Princes' Palace Resort, Yuka Yat, Feriye, Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, TGA, and Setur Marinas.
This year's schedule features racing on the Marmara Sea, followed by a day of racing around the Princes' Island in the Princes Palace Resort Race, before the grand finale and the Bosphorus Race Dr. Bahri Akdag, founder of Princes' Palace Resort, is a lifelong supporter of the sport and thrilled to be involved:
"Hosting the handover ceremony and a part of this prestigious regatta in Büyükada adds special meaning both to the island and its maritime tradition. We are truly excited to welcome all participants."