TRIP OVERVIEW
Trip Dates
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Tour Highlights
Take part in the world-famous Bosphorus Cross-Continental Swim at the heart of Istanbul
Swim from Asia to Europe as one of the world's busiest shipping lanes closes for this once-a-year event
Join open water swimmers from around the world and soak up lively Bosphorus race village
Discover the history and culture of the fascinating city of Istanbul
The iconic Bosphorus Cross-Continental Swim is back, bigger and better than ever. Complete an unforgettable crossing from Asia to Europe as the Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul comes to a standstill for this annual event. Join more than 2,400 competitors from across the globe as swimmers take over the Bosphorus waters and one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world is temporarily closed to traffic.
Who Is This Trip For?
The Bosphorus Cross-Continental Swim is a significant open water swim and conditions during the race may be challenging. A good experience of swimming in all sea conditions is essential and you should have relevant open water knowledge to be confident if such conditions do arise. Please be aware that this race also involves a mass start, but due to the large number of participants, it is possible to take your time and wait for a quieter period to enter the water.
This trip is only available to be booked through SwimTrek as a complete package (including accommodation). If you choose not to join as a swimmer, there is the opportunity to join as a supporter. There are a limited number of supporters tickets available which include shared accommodation with a race participant and all SwimTrek transfers.
NOTE: Turkish passport holders are unable to register for this event through SwimTrek and must apply via the Turkish Olympic Committee directly.
Two Iconic Swim Events in One
In 2024 the date of the Bosphorus Cross-Continental Swim enables you to extend by one night in Istanbul and then immediately join our Hellespont Week Tour giving you two iconic events plus escorted tours of Istanbul, Gallipoli and Troy in one tour package.
What's Included?
- Entry into the Bosphorus Cross-Continental Swim Race
- Two nights' accommodation
- Two breakfasts
- Dinner Cruise – Race Course Familiarisation
- Transfers to and from race registration and boat tour the day before the event
- Transfers to and from the race village before and after the event
- SwimTrek Representatives to assist in ensuring everything runs smoothly
- ABTOT Financial Protection
What's Not Included?
- Travel to and from the start of the tour
- Lunches and evening meals (excluding the evening of the Dinner Cruise)
What's Included For Supporters?
- Two nights' accommodation with a race participant
- Two breakfasts
- Dinner Cruise – Race Course Familiarisation
- Transfers to and from the race village before and after the event
- ABTOT Financial Protection
Daily Itineraries
Please note that the below itinerary is subject to change during the course of your trip.
Trip Schedule
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3 - Race Day
Map
Reviews
Thank you! Our first experience with SwimTrek was exceptional. From the efficient, friendly office team to the organisation on the ground - flawless service. I can't wait to book our next experience.
The SwimTrek Bosphorus experience was excellently organized, without being heavy-handed, and provided hassle-free access to an extraordinary, unique swimming experience.
Terrific experience with the SwimTrek team - felt they had all aspects of the event well in hand and we could relax and enjoy the swim event.
The amazing team at SwimTrek made my Bosphorus experience seamless, exciting and unforgettable!
By far, the best way to swim the Bosphorus is with SwimTrek. They look after everything else, so you can concentrate on the swim.
This was an amazing trip. Such an iconic location, made all the better by the organisation, planning and service from the lovely Swimtrek team on-site
I really don’t think it would have been possible to swim without all the help and guidance from SwimTrek. They were fantastic!
Was delighted with my Bosphorus swim trip. SwimTrek organisation was excellent both before the trip and on the ground during our stay.
The Bosphorus swim was an experience of a life time!
Glad I went to Istanbul to compete, especially as I came 3rd in my category and received a bronze medal on the podium!
Location Summary
Special Booking Terms
Bosphorus Ballot
Trip Grading
Race Event Information
Getting There
Accommodation
Travel Advice
Other Iconic Races & Challenging Swims
Photos (click to enlarge)
Related Links
- Swimming Holidays Europe
- Swimming Holidays Turkey
- Swimming Holidays Bosphorus Cross-Continental Swim
- Swimming Holidays Bozburun - Turkey
- Swimming Holidays Bozburun Short Swims - Turkey
- Swimming Holidays Hellespont Week Tour
- Swimming Holidays Hellespont and Dardanelles Swim
- Swimming Holidays Lycian Way - Turkey
- Swimming Holidays Lycian Way Long Swims - Turkey
- Swimming Holidays Lycian Way With Teens - Turkey
Bosphorus Cross-Continental Swim
The SwimTrek ballot is closed for 2024 and not live for 2025 just yet, if you'd like to take part in this iconic race next year, join the mailing list to be the first to know when entries go live!