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Türkiye’s Isbank has unveiled a new floating branch named "Is Vapur (Business Ferry)," aiming to merge the country’s historical banking legacy with a modern, multi-use customer experience platform.
Inspired by the 1926 "Karadeniz Vapuru" (Black Sea Ferry), which famously housed a mobile Isbank branch during its global voyage, the floating branch will primarily serve clients at Istanbul’s Galataport, relocating to Karakoy when large cruise ships require docking space.
Isbank General Manager Hakan Aran introduced the project as a continuation of the bank’s thematic branch strategy, following the earlier rollout of its agriculture, tourism, and entrepreneurship-focused locations. "This new concept is a ‘marine branch’ that brings banking closer to the public in a more interactive way," Aran said.
Is Vapur's interior includes a bookstore curated by Is Kultur Publishing, a cafe, dedicated meeting rooms, and coworking areas, inspired by the bank’s "Is Mekan" space in Nisantasi. Open seven days a week between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m., the vessel welcomes all visitors, regardless of whether they are Isbank customers or not, with the aim of offering a flexible, engaging environment.
The space is designed to host a range of events with a capacity of 320 people, accommodating both indoor gatherings and open-deck activities. Aran emphasized that even citizens who do not use the branch for banking transactions can visit simply to read or work.
Beyond its cultural and financial functions, Is Vapur also holds strategic value for emergency preparedness. Aran noted that in the event of a major earthquake in Istanbul, the vessel is equipped to operate as a logistics base, offering services where land routes may become inaccessible.
It can also function as a 300-person emergency shelter and infirmary, capable of reaching all Istanbul ports to maintain financial access via sea.
By reviving the spirit of a 100-year-old maritime banking initiative and adapting it to the needs of a digitally connected and socially active public, Isbank positions Is Vapur as a symbol of continuity and innovation, Aran highlighted.
Founded in 1924 as the Republic’s first national bank, Isbank is Türkiye’s largest private lender, with total assets of €86.57 billion ($101.87 billion) as of the latest quarter. The bank operates 1,029 branches domestically and abroad, employing more than 20,000 people.
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