The 100th anniversary of the Cabotage Law, symbolizing Turkey's complete independence at sea, will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, through a joint organization of governorships, Regional Port Authorities, and municipalities. The full program based on location, time, and events has been finalized.

Official Wreath-Laying and Maritime Martyrs Commemoration Programs

Istanbul (Beşiktaş): As every year, the central ceremony will take place in Beşiktaş. At 10:00 AM, the Barbaros Hayreddin Pasha Tomb will be visited. Coordinated by the Istanbul Governorship and Port Authority, a wreath will be laid in the waters of the Istanbul Strait from a ceremonial ship, with participation from students of maritime faculties.

Zonguldak: The celebrations will begin at 10:00 AM with the presentation of a wreath by the Regional Port Authority at the Atatürk Monument in front of the Zonguldak Governorship.

Bodrum: An official wreath-laying ceremony will be held at 09:30 AM in Bodrum Municipality Square.

Where and When Will the Tugboat Water Shows and Competitions Take Place?

The official locations and times for the tugboat water spray shows (water dance) and flyboard performances, frequently mentioned in the media, are as follows:

Antalya (Kaleiçi Marina): Traditional swimming, anchor lifting, and greasy pole competitions will start at 18:00 at Kaleiçi Marina. Immediately following, at 19:45, a water show by the port tugs will be held off Kaleiçi Marina.

Istanbul (Arnavutköy - Karaburun Port): Organized by Arnavutköy Municipality, swimming, canoeing, and greasy pole competitions will begin at 12:00. At 16:00, flyboard shows and an official ceremony parade will take place along the coastline.

Zonguldak (Kilimli Fisherman's Harbor): The competition and public events segment of the official celebrations will commence at 16:30 at Kilimli Fisherman's Harbor.

Participation of Educational Institutions

Since schools are on summer vacation, there will be no general ceremony under the Ministry of National Education. However:

Maritime Vocational High Schools and universities' Maritime Faculties will participate in the parades with their flags and banners.

Moda Maritime Club (Istanbul): Between 10:30 AM and 2:00 PM, a special Cabotage Day Boat Tour will be organized for underprivileged children as part of a social responsibility project.

Evening Concerts and Receptions

Arnavutköy Karaburun Coast: After a day of competitions, a public concert by Yusuf Güney will be held in the event area in the evening. Free shuttles will be provided from in front of Arnavutköy Central Mosque to the concert area.

Bodrum Cruise Port: A '100th Year Maritime and Cabotage Day Cocktail' will be held at 20:30 with the participation of representatives from the maritime sector, shipowners, and local administrative authorities.

Source: SeaNews Türkiye