Cruise Through Istanbul - Discover, Dine & Relax

Panoramic Views
Panoramic Views
Frequent Departures
Frequent Departures
Sightseeing & Onboard Meal Options
Sightseeing & Onboard Meal Options
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From happy customers

Loved by 35 million+
Stephanie Rother

Stephanie

Aug 2025
4/5
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The absolute highlight was the sunset with a view of the Bosphorus Bridge, there was a lot of information during the trip, friendly service.
Janine Tope
AE

Janine

United Arab Emirates
Jul 2025
5/5
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+1 more

I would highly recommend this exclusion with Headout. It was easy to reach the yacht with the metro from our accommodation and the staff whatsapped us a day before to confirm the meeting point. The staff were super friendly and the service was great onboard. The onboard tour guide had a pleasant and informative presentation. The snacks were delicious and well presented but I would recommend having dinner before or afterwards. It was a nice yacht in good condition, they provided blankets when it was chilly. They have alcoholicc beverages availabile at an additional cost. It was not over crowded which was really nice, overall a first class trip ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
José Javier Cervera Ballesteros
ES

José

Spain
Jul 2025
5/5
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+1 more

Pleasant walk along the recognized Strait, fabulous views of palaces and historic buildings, alternating with beautiful scenery. The staff very friendly and attentive. From 10, highly recommended.
Michel Kockelkoren

Michel

May 2025
5/5
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+1 more

The staff was really friendly and great. There was an incident with a crazy passenger but the crew solved it very professionally. Interfering to avoid more trouble. Grateful to the guys!
Mónica Pellisé Martínez

Mónica

Aug 2022
5/5
Despite a caotic start ( we were a big group and had to run over the streets to follow the guide), the rest was very good, it was a good relation quality/prize. We could see the european and asian coast for two h, seing the sunset and listening to music. Nice pictures.
Michael Picton

Michael

Jun 2022
4/5
The trip itself was good. However, experience around the meeting point didn't feel professional. A random guy just came up and said he was our guide. Felt very suspicious but he took us to the actual guide who was running late. Just made everyone feel a little unsure.
Nima Feriduni

Nima

Sep 2022
5/5
Ein rundum fantastischer Abend für mich und meine Familie! Wir haben uns sehr wohlgefühlt. Werde ich definitiv weiterempfehlen. Vielen herzlichen Dank für alles.
Karin Zintz Volbracht

Karin

Apr 2024
5/5
A wonderful excursion! Pick-up at the hotel went well, everything on board was great, good explanations, friendly crew. And you can get a good idea of the enormous size of Istanbul from the water.

What to expect on a Bosphorus cruise?

Group enjoying a Bosphorus yacht cruise in sunny weather.
A luxurious yacht tour
Boat tour on the Bosphorus in Istanbul with cityscape and seagulls in view.
Immersive cultural experience
Private table with drinks and brunch overlooking Bosphorus, Istanbul, during cruise.
Luxury yacht cruising on the Bosphorus with a bridge in the background.
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A smooth boarding

Start your experience at bustling waterfronts like Eminönü or Kabataş, where ferries, yachts, and dinner boats await. Staff greet you warmly, guide you to your table or deck, and get you settled for a scenic voyage.

Comfort designed for every traveler

Choose between open-air decks for unobstructed photos or cozy indoor lounges with panoramic windows and climate control. Private yachts offer plush seating, quiet decks, and personalized service, perfect for special occasions.

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Glide between Europe and Asia

As the boat glides away from the pier, Istanbul immediately transforms. Minarets pierce the sky, palaces stretch along the waterfront, and bridges link Europe and Asia in one sweeping panorama. It’s a view that can only be captured from the Bosphorus.

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Culture and entertainment on the water

Bosphorus dinner cruises feature live shows, like Whirling Dervishes, belly dancing, folk music, or DJs, turning your cruise into a cultural showcase.

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Dining that celebrates Turkish heritage

Brunch cruises greet you with freshly brewed Turkish tea and regional delicacies, while dinner cruises bring a lavish multi-course feast paired with wine or raki. Upgrades include alcoholic drinks and even personalized menus.

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Enhance your experience with upgrades

Many cruises offer optional alcoholic drinks, private tables, private yacht rentals, and more. These upgrades can help create a more intimate, personalized journey, perfect for special occasions or a luxury escape.

Things to know before booking your Bosphorus cruise tickets

  • Peak time slots to book: Dinner and sunset options sell out quickly in peak season (April-October). Book online in advance to secure your preferred slot.
  • Cruise durations & routes: Choose from 90-minute quick sightseeing cruises, 2-hour yacht cruises with drinks and sunset views, 3-hour dinner cruises with entertainment, or full-day trips combining Bosphorus sailing with Princes’ Islands exploration.
  • Daytime vs. evening experiences: Day cruises are ideal for history buffs and photographers, offering crystal-clear views of Istanbul’s skyline. Evening and sunset cruises transform the Bosphorus into a romantic stage, with illuminated bridges and lively entertainment. 
  • Private vs shared: Private yachts cruisesprovide personal crew service, flexibility in departure times, and a completely private experience, best for couples, families, or special events; shared cruises are budget-friendly and more social.
  • Boarding points are central and well-connected: Most cruises depart from Eminönü, Kabataş, or Karaköy, easily accessible by tram, metro, or ferry. Boarding locations are scenic, so plan to arrive early to explore the waterfront neighborhoods before setting sail.
  • Meal & drink options: Sightseeing cruises rarely include meals but may offer snacks, while brunch and dinner cruises feature full spreads or multi-course Turkish feasts; most include soft drinks, with optional alcoholic packages.
  • Onboard entertainment: Dinner cruises often feature Whirling Dervish ceremonies, belly dancing, Turkish folk music, and even DJs or live bands. If entertainment matters to you, prioritize these tickets. If you prefer a quieter ambiance, sightseeing or brunch options are better suited.

Which Bosphorus cruise is best for you?

Bosphorus cruises

If you are budget-conscious

Go for: Sightseeing cruises or combo tickets
Duration: From 1 hr 10 minutes to 6 hrs, depending on the ticket
Guide: Bosphorus audio guide app or an expert English-speaking tour guide, depending on the ticket option

  • Sail along the Bosphorus Strait and spot Istanbul's iconic landmarks while listening to an audio guide available in over 10 languages. 
  • If you book a combo ticket, you can visit one of Istanbul’s top monuments like Dolmabahce Palace or Hagia Sophia along with your Bosphorus cruise. 

Recommended tours:

Bosphorus Dinner Cruise

If you want a culinary experience with your sightseeing

Go for: Dinner cruises with live entertainment
Duration: 3 hrs to 3 hrs 30 mins depending on the ticket
Guide: Bosphorus audio guide app or an expert English-speaking tour guide, depending on the ticket option

  • Enjoy a 3-course Turkish dinner on a private table with unlimited soft drinks and a live DJ on board. You can also go on a 2-hour luxury cruise on a private rental boat along the Bosphorus Strait. 
  • If you upgrade your ticket, you can also enjoy hotel transfers in an AC coach. 

Recommended tours:

Bosphorus Cruises

If you want a luxury experience

Go for: Luxury yacht cruises
Duration: Flexible
Guide: Bosphorus audio guide app or an expert English-speaking tour guide, depending on the ticket option

  • With Bosphorus luxury cruises, you can go on a 2-hour sail on the Bosphorus Strait while enjoying live commentary, Turkish snacks and beverages. 
  • You can also opt for a 2-hour cruise on the Bosphorus Strait on an exclusive private rental luxury yacht.

Recommended tours:

Bosphorus Sunset Cruises

If you want to experience Istanbul at sunset

Go for: Sunset or evening cruises
Duration: From 1 hr 30 mins to 2 hrs 30 mins, depending on the ticket
Guide: Bosphorus audio guide app or an expert English-speaking tour guide, depending on the ticket option

  • Take a sunset cruise and experience the magic of Istanbul as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow on the city's iconic skyline.
  • Opt for a luxury yacht cruise and savour Turkish snacks and beverages as you sail past the city's historical monuments and prominent landmarks. 

Recommended tours:

What is the Bosphorus Strait?

The Bosphorus Strait is a natural waterway in Turkey that connects the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara. It also serves as a boundary between the continents of Europe and Asia.

The strait stretches approximately 31 km (19 miles) in length and varies in width from 700 to 3,700 metres. Its strategic importance has made it a crucial route for maritime trade and transportation throughout history, shaping the region's economy, politics, and culture.

Straddling the Bosphorus Strait, the city of Istanbul has flourished since the 7th century BCE as the region's foremost economic, cultural, and trade hub.

About the Bosphorus Strait

Bosphorus Strait cruise map

Bosphorus Cruise route map highlighting key Istanbul landmarks and stops.

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All your Bosphorus cruises boarding points

Address: Turyol Eminönü Pier, Kennedy Cd., Fatih, Istanbul | Find on map

Getting there:

  • By tram: Take the T1 line to Eminönü. It's a 2-minute walk away from the pier.
  • By metro: Take the M2 to Haliç. It's a 10-minute walk away from the pier.
  • By bus: Multiple routes stop at Eminönü Square.

Famous for: It is a lively pier in Istanbul’s old town, easily accessible from Sultanahmet. Enjoy waterfront views of the Golden Horn, proximity to the Spice Bazaar, and vibrant local life.

Address: Ömer Avni, Meclis-i Mebusan Cd. 36/A, 34440 Beyoğlu/İstanbul | Find on map

Getting there:

  • By tram: Take the T1 line to Kabatas. It is located 2–3 minutes walk away from the pier.
  • By metro: Take the funicular from Taksim Square to Kabatas, located a 2-minute walk away from the pier.
  • By bus: Several bus routes stop at Kabataş terminal.
  • By taxi: Accessible via the Bosphorus coast road; limited parking.

Famous for: It is a central, well-connected pier close to Dolmabahçe Palace and the scenic waterfront. Ideal for guests staying in Sultanahmet or Taksim.

Address: Bebek, Cevdet Paşa Cd., 34342 Beşiktaş, Istanbul | Find on map

Getting there:

  • By tram: T1 line to Kabataş, then a short taxi ride to Bebek marina.
  • By metro: Take a funicular from Taksim to Kabataş, then a taxi to marina.
  • By taxi: Easily reachable via the coast road; limited street parking.

Famous for: It is an upscale departure point located in Bebek, one of Istanbul’s most elegant neighborhoods. Offers scenic views and a luxurious ambiance along the Bosphorus.

Bosphorus cruise routes explained

Bosphorus cruise ship sailing with Istanbul skyline and mosque in the background.

Bosphorus strait cruise

  • Route: Sail between Europe and Asia from Eminönü to the Bosphorus Bridge and beyond.
  • Sites: Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Rumeli Fortress, Maiden’s Tower.
  • Best for: First-time visitors, quick tour of Istanbul from the water.
Ferry docked at Princes Islands, Istanbul with colorful houses and lush greenery in the background.

Princes’ Islands cruise

  • Route: Take a full-day ferry ride south into the Sea of Marmara.
  • Sites: Büyükada, Heybeliada.
  • Best for: A relaxing day trip away from Istanbul.

Your Bosphorus cruise check-in & boarding guide

  • Arrival time: Try to arrive at least 20 minutes early. If you’ve booked a dinner cruise or a private yacht, plan to get there 30 minutes in advance so there’s plenty of time to settle in and enjoy the service setup.
  • Tickets & ID: You can show either a mobile voucher or a printed ticket when boarding, and do carry a photo ID if you plan to purchase drinks from the bar.
  • Dress code: Dress comfortably for sightseeing cruises, but if you’re joining a dinner or luxury experience, smart casual attire is a great choice to match the onboard setting.
  • Security: Security checks are light, but bags may be scanned. Alcohol or large luggage isn’t generally allowed.
  • Boarding Process: Dining cruises have reserved tables, while sightseeing cruises are mostly first-come-first-served, so arriving early is a good idea if you want your pick of seats.
  • Luggage Rules: Keep your packing light, as small bags are fine, but large suitcases might not be accepted onboard.

What you’ll see on your Bosphorus cruise

Dolmabahce Palace
Bosphorus cruise ship with Hagia Sophia in the background, Istanbul.
Bosphorus yacht cruising past Topkapi Palace in Istanbul.
Blue Mosque minarets with Istanbul skyline and Bosphorus in the background.
Bosphorus Bridge
Galata Tower rising above Istanbul's historic skyline by the waterfront.
Maiden's Tower (Kiz Kulesi)
Ortaköy Mosque
Beylerbeyi Palace
Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge
Rumeli Hisarı Fortress
Ciragan Palace
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Dolmabahce Palace

Dolmabahce Palace extends along the shoreline with an uninterrupted facade over 600 meters long. Its ornate gates, grand staircases, and neoclassical design are clearly visible from the boat, showcasing the scale and luxury of the Ottoman Empire’s 19th-century residence.

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Hagia Sophia

When seen from the Bosphorus, Hagia Sophia’s massive dome dominates the skyline, framed by four tall minarets. The building’s scale is even more impressive when viewed from the water, where you can see how it overlooks the historic peninsula.

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Topkapi Palace

Perched above the shoreline, Topkapi Palace can be seen peaking through treetops. Its long defensive walls, towers, and terraced gardens cascade toward the water, giving you a sense of the size of the Ottoman court.

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Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque’s six elegant minarets rise gracefully beside Hagia Sophia, its perfect symmetry most striking from the water. Perched near the shoreline, it watches over the Bosphorus like a guardian of old Istanbul.

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Bosphorus Bridge

Gliding under the Bosphorus Bridge is a thrill as its vast span connects Europe and Asia with a sweep of steel. At night, you can see its LED lights shimmer on the water.

Galata Tower

The Galata Tower rises above the rooftops of Beyoglu. From the water, its cylindrical stone form and conical roof are clearly visible, standing out as one of the oldest and most distinctive features of the skyline.

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Maiden's Tower (Kiz Kulesi)

Sitting on a small islet in the Bosphorus, the Maiden’s Tower is fully visible from every angle as the boat passes. Its compact structure and lighthouse form make it one of the most striking landmarks viewed from the water.

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Ortaköy Mosque

Located right at the water’s edge, Ortaköy Mosque can be seen in its entirety from the boat. Its bright facade, domes, and minarets appear almost level with the Bosphorus, framed by the nearby bridge behind it.

Beylerbeyi Palace

Located on the Asian coast of the Bosphorus, Beylerbeyi Palace is a fusion of Ottoman and European architectural styles. Its ornate walls enclose opulent interiors, offering a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of Ottoman rulers.

Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge

Named after the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge spans the Bosporus Strait in Istanbul and connects the European and Asian sides of the city. With its distinct silhouette, it is an iconic landmark of Istanbul's skyline.

Rumeli Hisarı Fortress

Rumeli Hisarı Fortress is a historical stronghold situated on the European shore of the Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul. Constructed by Sultan Mehmed II in 1452, it served as a strategic fortification during the Ottoman Empire's conquest of Constantinople. Today, it is one of the city's most prominent historical landmarks that can be seen on a Bosphorus cruise.

Ciragan Palace

Çırağan Palace is a former 19th-century Ottoman palace that has now been converted into a luxury hotel. Constructed in the Neo-Baroque style, it features lavish architecture, grand halls, marble columns, ornate decorations, and lush gardens.

Plan your Bosphorus cruise experience

Sightseeing cruises

General timings:

  • Sightseeing cruises: Betweem 9am to 11pm
  • Brunch cruises: 10am
  • Sunset & evening cruises: Between 5pm-6pm in summer, earlier in winter.
  • Dinner cruises: 8:30pm
Bosphorus cruise timings
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High season vs low season
  • Spring (April & May) & Autumn (September to November): The off-peak season months in spring and autumn are ideal for taking a Bosphorus cruise. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 12°C and 25°C, and the crowds are smaller, offering a more relaxed experience.
  • Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season in Istanbul. Its clear skies and sunny weather, with low chances of rain, are perfect for enjoying the city from a cruise vessel. However, be prepared for higher temperatures, large tourist crowds, and higher prices.
Weekends vs weekdays
  • Spring (April & May) & Autumn (September to November): The off-peak season months in spring and autumn are ideal for taking a Bosphorus cruise. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 12°C and 25°C, and the crowds are smaller, offering a more relaxed experience.
  • Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season in Istanbul. Its clear skies and sunny weather, with low chances of rain, are perfect for enjoying the city from a cruise vessel. However, be prepared for higher temperatures, large tourist crowds, and higher prices.
Best time of the day
  • Spring (April & May) & Autumn (September to November): The off-peak season months in spring and autumn are ideal for taking a Bosphorus cruise. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 12°C and 25°C, and the crowds are smaller, offering a more relaxed experience.
  • Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season in Istanbul. Its clear skies and sunny weather, with low chances of rain, are perfect for enjoying the city from a cruise vessel. However, be prepared for higher temperatures, large tourist crowds, and higher prices.
Passengers on a yacht viewing the Bosphorus Bridge in Istanbul.
  • Climate-controlled indoor lounges with panoramic windows
  • Open-air decks
  • Restrooms on most boats
  • Professional crew and captain
  • Wi-Fi on premium vessels
  • Snack counters/bars on select cruises
  • Audio guides on select cruises
  • Dinner and brunch cruises include table service and lice shows
  • Luxury yachts add personalised crew support and private spaces
Bosphorus lunch cruises
Bosphorus sunset & evening cruises
  • Large ferries and dinner yachts are wheelchair- and stroller-accessible, with ramps and spacious seating.
  • Smaller sightseeing boats and private yachts may involve steps and have limited mobility access.
  • Staff are available to assist elderly passengers or guests with special needs; early boarding is recommended for comfort.
Bosphorus cruise passengers photographing Ortaköy Mosque and Bosphorus Bridge in Istanbul.
  • Sit on the left deck (port side) when heading north to catch Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, and Rumeli Fortress. On the return, switch to the starboard side for Maiden’s Tower.
  • The Bosphorus is breezy even in summer. Bring a light jacket or scarf for sunset and evening departures, especially if you plan to sit on open decks.
  • If you’re into photography, steer clear of noon departures; morning or late afternoon cruises have softer lighting.
  • Please respect crew announcements and boarding calls to ensure smooth departures.
  • Boats have limited storage, so bring only essentials: camera, phone, wallet, and a light bag. Large suitcases and oversized backpacks aren’t allowed onboard.
  • Sightseeing cruises usually offer audio guides in 10+ languages; bring your own headphones for better sound quality and to tune out engine noise.
  • The Bosphorus is generally calm, but sensitive travelers should bring motion-sickness bands or medication. Avoid sitting near the bow (front) if you’re prone to dizziness.

Frequently asked questions about Bosphorus cruises

How long does a Bosphorus cruise last?

The duration of a Bosphorus cruise depends on the type of experience you choose. Sightseeing cruises are typically between 1 hour and 2 hours long, while yacht tours last for approximately 2 hours. Cruises that include a meal are typically around 3 hours long. There are also longer cruises lasting about 4 to 6 hours or even the full day.

Can I book last-minute?

Yes, last-minute tickets are often available, but popular time slots, especially sunset and dinner cruises, sell out quickly so, its best to book in advance.

Are Bosphorus cruises worth it?

Yes, Bosphorus cruises offer unmatched views of Istanbul’s skyline, palaces, and landmarks from the water. They offer a sightseeing experience that you can’t get on land.

What are the different types of Bosphorus cruises?

There are many Bosphorus cruise options to choose from. You can opt for sightseeing cruises, dining cruises, which include a sumptuous lunch or dinner, and yacht tours, where you can sail on the Bosphorus Strait in a luxury yacht and soak in the sights of the city.

How helpful is commentary/audio guide on a cruise?

Live commentary or an audio guide is very helpful for context as it points out landmarks and explains history, making the route more engaging, especially for first-time visitors.

What’s the difference between sightseeing and dining cruises?

Sightseeing cruises focus on views and commentary with shorter durations, while dining cruises include meals, live entertainment, and longer sail times.

Is seating assigned or first-come-first-served?

Dining cruises typically have reserved seating, while sightseeing cruises often follow a first-come-first-served system, with open-deck spots filling up quickly.

What is the cancellation policy for Bosphorus cruise tickets?

Depending on the experience chosen, you may be able to cancel your booking 24 hours in advance and get a refund. However, not all cruises allow cancellation. We recommend that you check the cancellation policy when booking.

If I take a meal-based Bosphorus cruise, will I be able to get vegetarian food?

Bosphorus cruises that include meals typically offer non-vegetarian options. In case you have any dietary requirements or restrictions, please check with the cruise operator to know if they can be accommodated.

Who can avail of discounted Bosphorus cruise tickets?

This depends solely on the cruise chosen. However, typically, children aged under 4 can go for free, while those aged 4-15 can avail of discounts on Bosphorus cruise tickets, provided they have a valid ID.

Do Bosphorus cruises operate year-round?

Yes, you can go on a Bosphorus cruise at any time of the year. However, the starting times or schedules of the cruise might change depending on the season.

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