Kocaeli launches new summer tourism attractions, from moonlit boat tours to a giant aquarium

The Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality has opened two seasonal sea‑tour programs. The "Mehtap Tours" begin on 20 June, running every Saturday at sunset with free tea and water; tickets cost 300 TL for adults and 215 TL for students. Starting 22 June, weekend day‑trips to Büyükada operate on Sundays, with departures from İzmit, Değirmendere, Karamürsel and Darıca and fares ranging from 270 TL to 420 TL.

At the same time, the new Körfez Aqua Kıtalar Akvaryumu opened in the İzmit Millet Bahçesi on 20‑21 June. Within the first two hours it welcomed about 2 000 visitors, and by the end of the day the total reached 15 150, making it one of the city’s most visited new attractions. The aquarium showcases marine life from multiple continents, offers interactive displays, and provided free entry and refreshments during its inauguration weekend.