TURKUAZ BOĞAZIN İZİNDE/SARIYER -BEŞİKTAŞ VAPUR GEZİSİ

The Bosphorus in Istanbul turned turquoise in the last week of May, creating magnificent views. We decided not to miss this opportunity and show our followers the turquoise Bosphorus. The sea turning turquoise is a natural and seasonal phenomenon, as follows: The main reason for the Bosphorus's captivating turquoise color is the sudden and intense proliferation of microscopic single-celled algae (phytoplankton) called "Emiliania huxleyi" (cocolithophore) in the seawater. Algal Bloom: In spring and summer, the increase in seawater temperature and atmospheric effects (for example, iron-rich mineral dust carried from the Sahara Desert) create a perfect feeding environment for these microscopic organisms. This triggers a massive algal bloom in the Black Sea. Light Reflection (Calcium Carbonate Effect): These special organisms have calcium carbonate (i.e., chalky substance) on their cell surfaces. Billions of algae carried into the Bosphorus by Black Sea currents strongly reflect sunlight thanks to the white calcium shells on their surface. Color Change: These calcium shells, creating a mirror-like effect, scatter the blue-green wavelength of sunlight. This reflection, combined with the water's natural blue color, transforms the Bosphorus into a dazzling milky turquoise hue.