Istanbul Naval Museum

The Istanbul Naval Museum sits in the Beşiktaş district on the European shore of the Bosphorus and ranks among Turkey's foremost maritime institutions. Founded in 1897 by Ottoman Navy Minister Bozcaadalı Hasan Hüsnü Pasha, it is one of the oldest state museums in the country. The collection spans imperial caïques — ornately carved rowing boats used by the Ottoman sultans — alongside 16th-century sea charts, early diving equipment, cannons, uniforms, and carved figureheads. The highlight for many visitors is the gallery housing original Ottoman galley hulls dating from the 15th to 18th centuries. Open Tuesday through Friday 9 am–5 pm, Saturday and Sunday until 6 pm; admission fee applies.