Transit Fees Rise for Bosphorus and Dardanelles from July 2026
Transit Through the Bosphorus and Dardanelles to Increase in Cost from July 1
From July 1, 2026, Türkiye will increase transit fees for commercial vessels passing through the Bosphorus and Dardanelles Straits by 15 percent. The decision applies to all ships using one of the world’s most important maritime corridors.
Under the updated tariff system, the transit fee will rise to 6.7 United States dollars per ton of vessel capacity.
Significant Growth in Transit Fees
Over recent years, transit costs through the Turkish straits have increased sharply, reflecting gradual tariff adjustments:
- Until 2022: approximately 0.8 US dollars per ton
- From July 2025: 5.83 US dollars per ton
- From July 1, 2026: 6.7 US dollars per ton
This represents an increase of more than eight times over a four-year period.
Reasons Behind the Decision
Transit fees for the Bosphorus and Dardanelles are regulated under the Montreux Convention, which governs maritime navigation through the straits.
Turkish authorities state that the price adjustment is necessary to support infrastructure development and ensure maritime safety in one of the busiest shipping routes in the world.
Revenue generated from these fees is allocated to maintaining coastal services, funding rescue operations, supporting medical response units, and managing maritime incidents.
Shipping Volume and Economic Impact
According to Türkiye’s Ministry of Transport, more than 40,000 vessels passed through the Bosphorus and Dardanelles in 2025.
Depending on vessel size and tonnage, the average transit cost ranges between 15,000 and 30,000 US dollars per ship. The increase may raise operational expenses for global shipping companies and affect international freight costs.
Strategic Importance of the Turkish Straits
The Bosphorus and Dardanelles are critical maritime corridors connecting the Black Sea to the Mediterranean Sea through the Sea of Marmara. They are used by tankers, container ships, bulk carriers, and other commercial vessels transporting goods between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
The updated tariff policy reflects Türkiye’s efforts to modernize maritime infrastructure and improve navigation safety while addressing rising operational and maintenance costs.
