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- About Bosphorus Cruise
- Sightseeing Cruises
- Dinner Cruises
- Evening Cruises
- Lunch Cruises
- Yacht Tours
- Top Sights To See
Bosphorus sunset cruises
- The cruise departs near Dolmabahce Palace, behind the red petrol station. Look for the wooden house where the Istanbul Welcome Card ticket window is located.
- Boats depart every hour. Make sure to arrive at least 15–20 minutes early.
- The cruise is partially wheelchair accessible. If you have any specific arrangements, contact the service provider in advance.
- The audio guide works best on Android 10 or later models.
- The cruise departs near Dolmabahce Palace, behind the red petrol station. Look for the wooden house where the Istanbul Welcome Card ticket window is located.
- Boats depart every hour. Make sure to arrive at least 15–20 minutes early.
- The cruise is partially wheelchair accessible. If you have any specific arrangements, contact the service provider in advance.
- The audio guide works best on Android 10 or later models.
Inclusions
- 90-Minute Bosphorus Cruise
- Skip-the-line entry
- Multilingual audio guide
- Meet and greet with a marine officer
- A map highlighting the cruise route and points of interest along the way.
Exclusions
- Food and drinks on the cruise.
- These tickets can’t be cancelled. However, they are valid for an extended period of time.
- These tickets are valid for an extended duration. The exact details will be present on the ticket.
Reviews
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4.4
2,217 ratings
1.5K
439
96
77
140
Guests from United Kingdom, France, Spain and over 52 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
COUTURE
Jun 2025Verified booking
Good - too bad the comments didn't sync with the GPS.
View original review in French
Alexey
Jun 2025Verified booking
There was no link to download audiouide in any correspondence receoived, the tour was late and there was no guide at all, just a site seing. The sightseen through was very good. Would be great to mention that there is no AC on board the ship.
SI
Jun 2025Verified booking
Thank you for this very nice old cruise, good experience recommending to everyone preferably to buy the ticket before starting from Mord it's cheaper.
View original review in French
Maria
May 2025Verified booking
An hour and a half cruise at sunset and where you go along the Bosphorus. I loved it because it is not long and some explanations were heard over the loudspeaker in English.
View original review in Spanish
Timothy
Apr 2025Verified booking
Simple relaxing cruise up the Bosphorus. Easy to book, very reasonable price. Took a 90 minute cruise, did not want a longer one.
Valerio
Mar 2025Verified booking
The kindness of the team outside the ferry who explained, well and clearly, how to use the ticket. What I didn't like: poor cleaning of the ferry, disgusting bathroom not clean and nauseating in its stench for the visitors on the ship, inability and difficulty in using the audio guide (I paid more and I couldn't understand how to use it and enjoy it and without any communication on how to do it). Departure time not respected compared to what was seen on the booking site (it was written at 13:00 while the tour started at 14:00).
Geraldine
Mar 2025Verified booking
Overall, we had a good evening. Negative points: duration about 2h30, No whirling dervish, Dessert disappointing, 2 mini sweet rolls, 4th course = small salad....
View original review in French
Staicu
Jun 2025Verified booking
You saw many landmarks in just 1,5 hours, perfect weather, easy to find, good price for the 1,5 hours experience!
Laure
Jun 2025Verified booking
No audioguide was offered.
View original review in French
Anoshiravan
May 2025Verified booking
It was nice and very pretty but the boat was ho-hum. Bench seating was fine but no open standing area was missed.
Stephanie
May 2025Verified booking
The boat cruise was the perfect length of time. It was raining but it was still good!
PAPOUTSOGLOU
May 2025Verified booking
Good to see these places like Bebek and the Asian side of the city
Sumit
May 2025Verified booking
We really enjoyed our trip thanks to headout for making it easier
John
May 2025Verified booking
Views and colours around the water.
Karl
Apr 2025Verified booking
Access to the ride was difficult to find
View original review in German
Ferdinando
Apr 2025Verified booking
Not that exciting or interesting, but still good. Wouldn't recommend as a must.
María
Apr 2025Verified booking
Unbeatable value for money. A must experience
View original review in Spanish
Karakoz
Mar 2025Verified booking
Not bad. Thnx
Thomas
Mar 2025Verified booking
The view and the sunset.
View original review in German
Christopehe
Mar 2025Verified booking
Interesting audio, good value for money, lots to see
TAKUMI
Jun 2025Verified booking
Barbara
Jun 2025Verified booking
Peter
Jun 2025Verified booking
Farirai
Jun 2025Verified booking
Helmut
May 2025Verified booking
- Tip: The best period for a Bosphorus Cruise typically falls between April and September, varying based on your preferred type of cruise experience.
- This experience is pram/stroller accessible.
- Tip: The best period for a Bosphorus Cruise typically falls between April and September, varying based on your preferred type of cruise experience.
- This experience is pram/stroller accessible.
Inclusions
- 2-hour Bosphorus daytime/sunset yacht cruise (based on option selected)
- 2-hour private yacht rental for up to 10 people (based on option selected)
- Live commentary (based on option selected)
- Complimentary snacks
- Soft drinks, bottled water, tea & coffee
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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4.5
4,166 ratings
3.1K
666
85
60
278
Guests from United Kingdom, United States, India and over 43 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Claudia
Apr 2025Verified booking
EVERYTHING, they were very punctual, as offered, the boat in excellent condition, the kindness of the crew and especially the guide, although it was not in Spanish, the guide knew Spanish and that helped us a lot. We were delighted with the tour.
View original review in Spanish
Yana
Mar 2025Verified booking
Tour was simply awesome! Guide is very knowledgeable and the yacht is fantastic and very comfortable ❤️
Sarina
Jun 2025Verified booking
This sunset cruise was magical. The service provided was efficient and the staff were very friendly. I highly recommend this cruise as a program for your Istanbul trip.
Noémie
Jun 2025Verified booking
Fun cruise at sunset. The cruise allows you to admire the city from a distance. Also very nice that the boat stops for a while to take nice pictures of the sunset.
View original review in Dutch
Mark
Jun 2025Verified booking
It was a great ending to our tour in Istanbul. A relaxing and information filled trip up and down the Bosphorus. The crew was great and the guide was entertaining and full of facts. It was easy to book and easy to find at the end of the line in the tram.
Bénédicte
Jun 2025Verified booking
Very nice boat, pleasant cruise with beautiful view of the whole city of Istanbul and very friendly and efficient staff.
View original review in French
Judith
May 2025Verified booking
small size of the boat and detail paid to experience including food and music. loved the side adventure to ice cream on the east side.
RAJIV
May 2025Verified booking
Did our sunset cruise on 9th evening . I highly recommend this tour which has a good yacht, great seating , a good professional guide on board and not to mention the snacks . Evening well spent seeing Istanbul from the Bosphorus
Pietro
May 2025Verified booking
all very well organized . very nice people
View original review in Italian
Dmitry
May 2025Verified booking
We were especially impressed by the cleanliness of the boat, quality of the service and entertaining guide.
Shannon
Apr 2025Verified booking
Our narrator was fantastic and the snacks were great!
GRZYB
Jun 2025Verified booking
Deepinder
May 2025Verified booking
Jay
May 2025Verified booking
Maja
May 2025Verified booking
Soham
May 2025Verified booking
Alexander
May 2025Verified booking
OURANIA
May 2025Verified booking
Peter
May 2025Verified booking
MAMOUN
May 2025Verified booking
Jenna
May 2025Verified booking
Srilaxmi
May 2025Verified booking
Mehrez
May 2025Verified booking
Astrid
Mar 2025Verified booking
Pavel
Mar 2025Verified booking
- Tip: Time your cruise to coincide with the sunset to watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting warm hues across the Bosphorus.
- Complimentary drinks and snacks include soft drinks, tea, coffee, cookies, chips, nuts, and fruits.
- Facilities: Wi-Fi, Pram/stroller Accessibility.
- Pets and guide dogs are allowed on board.
- Bring along your sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat.
- If the main yacht is busy, you will be offered another yacht of the same quality.
- Tip: Time your cruise to coincide with the sunset to watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting warm hues across the Bosphorus.
- Complimentary drinks and snacks include soft drinks, tea, coffee, cookies, chips, nuts, and fruits.
- Facilities: Wi-Fi, Pram/stroller Accessibility.
- Pets and guide dogs are allowed on board.
- Bring along your sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat.
- If the main yacht is busy, you will be offered another yacht of the same quality.
Inclusions
- 2-hour private luxury yacht rental for up to 10 people
- Licensed captain
- Personalized service and crew
- Snacks
- Coffee, tea, and soft drinks
- WiFi on board
- Round-trip hotel transfers in a Mercedes Vito (based on option selected)
- Alcoholic beverages (based on option selected)
- Dinner (based on option selected)
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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Snapshots from our guests
4.2
101 ratings
29
66
3
2
1
Guests from Taiwan, France, United Kingdom and over 6 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Jay
May 2025Verified booking
Peter
May 2025Verified booking
Ferhaina
Sep 2024Verified booking
Elena
Aug 2024Verified booking
Private boat cruise was a great idea for the family activity - we really enjoyed our time on the water, beatiful views of the Bosphorus and the boat crew were wonderful. Two downsides: 1) we didnt know the boarding point until the booking - there is no option to see it until you book and pay. In our case it turned out almost an hour away by taxi. If i has known that in advance i might have chosen a different provider. 2) the booking confirmation did not contain contact of the boat captain and it took us 10 minutes of anxious searching and talking to other boat owners to find our boat. It all worked out fine in the end but it would be great to avoid this in the future
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
Siddhesh
Aug 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Aug 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Jul 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Jul 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Jul 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Jul 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Jul 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Jun 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Jun 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Jun 2024Verified booking
brian
Jul 2024Verified booking
We were charged Tl 1800 for drinks by the guide This was was included in the original price! How do i get this paid back to me?
Raja
Nov 2023Verified booking
The guys who managed the private cruise were just awesome. They answered all the questions from the get go and took care of snacks/soft drinks/tea/coffee from the very beginning. Loved their warmth towards us. Highly recommended!
Headout Guest
Jun 2024Verified booking
Michael
Jun 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Jun 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Jun 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Jun 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
May 2024Verified booking
- Witness Istanbul at sunset on this guided cruise, offering a unique perspective of historic landmarks and a taste of local flavors.
- An expert English-speaking guide will give you more information on the sights you see. Don’t forget to ask about the tale of the Maiden’s Tower!
- A great photo op awaits as the sun sets on the Bosphorus Bridge, an architectural marvel that connects Europe and Asia.
- The imprints left by the Roman, Ottoman, and Byzantine empires can be seen as you pass by Dolmabahçe, Ortaköy Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.
- The views are further enriched by a selection of snacks, fruits, Turkish coffee/tea, and lemonade provided on board.
- Witness Istanbul at sunset on this guided cruise, offering a unique perspective of historic landmarks and a taste of local flavors.
- An expert English-speaking guide will give you more information on the sights you see. Don’t forget to ask about the tale of the Maiden’s Tower!
- A great photo op awaits as the sun sets on the Bosphorus Bridge, an architectural marvel that connects Europe and Asia.
- The imprints left by the Roman, Ottoman, and Byzantine empires can be seen as you pass by Dolmabahçe, Ortaköy Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.
- The views are further enriched by a selection of snacks, fruits, Turkish coffee/tea, and lemonade provided on board.
Inclusions
- 2-hour Bosphorus sunset cruise
- English-speaking guide
- Snacks and fruits
- Tea, Turkish coffee, lemonade, water
Exclusions
- Alcoholic drinks
- Tips
- Tip: After the cruise, explore the vibrant Karaköy area, known for its trendy cafes and art galleries.
- This cruise is not suitable for wheelchair users.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Bosphorus CruisesEvening Cruises
Why go on a Bosphorus sunset cruise?
Scenic splendour
Marvel at Istanbul’s iconic landmarks aglow in the golden hues of the sunset, including the Bosphorus Bridge and Rumeli Fortress.
Your Bosphorus sunset cruise options
Sunset sightseeing cruises
Daytime or Sunset Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise in Istanbul
- Embark on a captivating journey with a 90-minute Bosphorus sunset cruise. Look at Istanbul’s iconic landmarks as you sail along the Bosphorus Strait and learn about their history with an informative app-based audio guide available in 10 languages.
- Duration: 1.5 hours
Bosphorus Luxury Yacht Daytime or Sunset Cruise
- Experience an unforgettable sunset in luxury aboard a private yacht with this 2.5 hour cruise. Learn about the rich history of Istanbul and the Bosphorus Strait with live commentary onboard from an expert guide.
- Duration: 2.5 hours
Luxury evening sunset cruises
2-Hour Bosphorus Luxury Private Yacht Rental in Istanbul
- Rent a private luxury yacht for an exclusive evening on this panoramic 2-hour Bosphorus cruise. Savour complimentary snacks and beverages, or upgrade your tickets to enjoy a delicious meal onboard luxury or enjoy luxury transfers to and from your hotel.
- Duration: 2 hours
Bosphorus & Golden Horn Sunset Yacht Cruise with English-Speaking Guide
- Gain a unique insight into Istanbul, its heritage, and its historic landmarks on this sunset yacht cruise of the Bosphorus Strait and the Golden Horn. Enjoy a selection of Turkish snacks and beverages accompanied by intriguing tales and information shared by an expert guide.
- Duration: 2 hours
Bosphorus sunset cruise map
Top sights to see on your Bosphorus sunset cruise
See all photos
Plan your Bosphorus sunset cruise experience
Timings
Best time to take a cruise
Getting there
Inclusions
Facilities
Visitor tips
- Daytime or Sunset Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise in Istanbul: 10:30am, 11am, 12.45pm, 1pm, 1.45pm, 2.45pm, 4pm
- Bosphorus Luxury Yacht Daytime or Sunset Cruise: 4:45pm
- 2-Hour Bosphorus Luxury Private Yacht Rental in Istanbul: 3:00pm, 5:00pm
- Bosphorus & Golden Horn Sunset Yacht Cruise with English-Speaking Guide: 4:30pm
High season vs low season
- Spring (April & May) & Autumn (September to November): The off-peak season in Istanbul is during spring and autumn. The weather during these months is mild, with temperatures ranging between 12°C and 25°C. There are also fewer tourists, making it the ideal time to take a Bosphorus sunset cruise.
- Summer (June to August): The peak tourist season offers clear skies and sunny weather. However, the weather is much warmer during these months, there are larger tourist crowds, and prices are typically higher.
Weekends vs weekdays
- The best time to take a sunset cruise is on weekdays. This allows you to avoid the weekend crowds and have a tranquil cruise experience.
Daytime or Sunset Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise in Istanbul
Boarding point: Dentur Avrasya Kabataş
- By tram: Take tram T1 to Kabataş Tramvay istasyonu tram station.
- By bus: Take bus 22, 22B, 26, 26A, 26B, 27E, 27SE, 28, 28T, 29C, 29D, 30D, 40T, or others to Kabataş bus stop.
- By metro (underground funicular): Take the F1 line of the metro’s underground funicular route to Kabataş inclined railway station.
2-Hour Bosphorus Luxury Private Yacht Rental in Istanbul
Boarding point: Bosphorus Yachts, Beşiktaş
- By bus: Take bus lines 22, 22RE, 29D, 40, or 40T to Boğaziçi Üniversitesi bus stop.
- By metro (underground funicular): Take the F4 line of the metro’s underground funicular route to Aşıyan inclined railway station.
Bosphorus Luxury Yacht Daytime or Sunset Cruise
Boarding point: Kabataş (Ş.Hatları)
- By tram: Take tram T1 to Kabataş Tramvay istasyonu tram station.
- By bus: Take bus lines 22, 22B, or 26. The closest bus stop is Kabataş (Ş.Hatları).
Bosphorus and Golden Horn Cruise from the Old City of Istanbul
Boarding point: Dentur Avrasya Kabataş
- By tram: Take tram T1 to Kabataş Tramvay istasyonu tram station.
- By bus: Take bus 22, 22B, 26, 26A, 26B, 27E, 27SE, 28, 28T, 29C, 29D, 30D, 40T, or others to Kabataş bus stop.
- By metro (underground funicular): Take the F1 line of the metro’s underground funicular route to Kabataş inclined railway station.
Daytime or Sunset Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise in Istanbul
- Informative audio guides are available in multiple languages.
- Refreshments on board.
- Optional hotel pickup and drop-off.
Bosphorus Luxury Yacht Daytime or Sunset Cruise
- Exclusive access to a luxury yacht.
- Refreshments and snacks are provided.
- Personalized service from onboard staff.
2-Hour Bosphorus Luxury Private Yacht Rental in Istanbul
- Private rental of a luxury yacht for 2 hours.
- Professional crew members to assist throughout the cruise.
- Customizable itinerary according to preferences.
- Refreshments and snacks are available on board.
Bosphorus and Golden Horn Cruise from the Old City of Istanbul
- Guided tour by an English-speaking expert.
- Complimentary refreshments are served onboard.
- Insightful commentary on Istanbul's maritime history.
- Comfortable seating: Plush seating arrangements for a relaxing and enjoyable cruise experience.
- Covered and open deck areas: Choice of covered and open deck areas to suit your preference for sun or shade.
- Restrooms: Access clean and well-maintained onboard restrooms for convenience during the cruise.
- Bar: Enjoy a selection of beverages from the onboard bar while taking in the views.
- WiFi access: Stay connected with complimentary WiFi available onboard for your convenience.
- Safety equipment: Ensure peace of mind with the presence of essential safety equipment onboard.
- Dress in layers: Wear layers or bring a light jacket to accommodate changing temperatures, especially during sunset cruises.
- Arrive early: Arrive at the boarding point early to secure the best seats and avoid rushing.
- Charge devices: Ensure your devices are fully charged and download the audio guide app before boarding the cruise.
- Capture memories: Don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture breathtaking views during the sunset on the cruise.
- Respect local customs: Respect local customs and guidelines while on board and at docking points.
- Stay hydrated: Carry water to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
Other types of Bosphorus cruises
Bosphorus boat tours
Explore Istanbul’s iconic landmarks from the water, including palaces, mosques, and bridges, with informative commentary along the way.
Bosphorus dinner cruises
Indulge in a delightful dining experience aboard a cruise, enjoying Turkish cuisine and live entertainment while cruising along the Bosphorus Strait at night.
Bosphorus yacht tours
Experience luxury and exclusivity with private yacht tours, offering personalized itineraries and VIP amenities for a memorable journey on the Bosphorus.
Frequently asked questions about Bosphorus sunset cruises
What is a Bosphorus sunset cruise?
A Bosphorus sunset cruise is a leisurely boat journey along the Bosphorus Strait in the evening, offering panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline illuminated by the setting sun.
Where can I book Bosphorus sunset cruise tickets?
You can book your Bosphorus sunset cruise tickets online.
How much does a Bosphorus sunset cruise cost?
Bosphorus sunset cruise ticket prices start from €12 and vary depending on the type of cruise, duration, and inclusions you choose.
Is it necessary to book Bosphorus sunset cruise tickets in advance?
It’s recommended to book Bosphorus sunset cruise tickets online in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred date and time as per your itinerary.
What types of Bosphorus sunset cruises are there?
White opting for a Bosphorus sunset cruise or an evening cruise, you can choose between sightseeing cruises, luxury yacht tours, private yacht rentals, and guided sunset cruises.
How long does a Bosphorus sunset cruise last?
A Bosphorus sunset cruise typically lasts between one and a half to 3 hours, depending on the chosen tour package and itinerary.
What is included in a typical Bosphorus sunset cruise?
Inclusions may vary but a Bosphorus sunset cruise typically offers guided commentary, refreshments, and access to onboard amenities such as restrooms and seating areas.
What are the main attractions seen during the Bosphorus sunset cruises?
During a Bosphorus sunset cruise, you will see the Bosphorus Bridge, Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahce Palace, Maiden’s Tower, and some historic forts among other historic attractions along the shoreline.
Do Bosphorus sunset cruises operate year-round?
Yes, most Bosphorus sunset cruises operate year-round, offering unique experiences in every season.
Are Bosphorus sunset cruises wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility on a Bosphorus sunset cruise may vary depending on the cruise provider, but many offer wheelchair-accessible options upon request.
Are children allowed on Bosphorus sunset cruises?
Yes, children are generally allowed on Bosphorus sunset cruises, and some tours offer special rates for children.
Can I bring my pet on board a Bosphorus sunset cruise?
Pets may not be allowed on all Bosphorus sunset cruises. However, some cruises do allow pets and service dogs.
From happy customers
Michel
mai, 2025
+ 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!
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Turkish Show and Private Table
Claudia
Peruabr, 2025
+ 1 more
EVERYTHING, they were very punctual, as offered, the boat in excellent condition, the kindness of the crew and especially the guide, although it was not in Spanish, the guide knew Spanish and that helped us a lot. We were delighted with the tour.
View original review in Spanish
Bosphorus Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Soft Drinks & Snacks
Yiao-tee
United Statesjan, 2025
This cruise was fantastic because our tour guide was so good in explaining then history behind the Bosphorous Strait. On top of it, we caught the best sunset we have ever seen! Sunset with Bosphorous Bridge in front of us and without any commercial ships in view!
Bosphorus Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Soft Drinks & Snacks
Hunout
Francejan, 2025
The welcome was warm, the meal went very well and the dance shows were sublime. We had our eyes full 😍 it's with pleasure that I'd recommend this experience!
View original review in French
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Shows & Unlimited Drinks
Antonio
jan, 2025
Easy booking. The best is the ratio quality/price. The audio guide is difficult to use, but the astonishing views of the bridges, mosques and palaces are really worthy. The biat is safe and fast. You can choose between the indoor option with coffe-shop (the milk with cinnamon is abolutely recommendable) and the top terrace (a bit cold in winter but fantastic to take photos. The trip is exactly as described. Don't miss it.
Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise with Audio guide
Lorenzo
Italyjan, 2025
Beautiful cruise that skirts first the European side and then the Asian side. Great way to give you a sense of the vastness and diversity of the city. Audio guide helpful but got stuck often, too bad because very useful.
Recommended at sunset!
Definitely recommended! Done in December, you have to cover up.
View original review in Italian
Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise with Audio guide
Mónica
ago, 2022
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.
2-Hour Boat Tour in Bosphorus
Michael
jun, 2022
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.
2-Hour Boat Tour in Bosphorus