Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruises

From happy customers

Loved by 42 million+

Stephanie

Aug 2025

4/5

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

United Arab Emirates

Jul 2025

5/5

+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

Spain

Jul 2025

5/5

+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.

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

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

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.

Mark

Canada

Jun 2025

5/5

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.

Judith

United States

May 2025

5/5

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.

What to expect on a Bosphorus sightseeing cruise

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Smooth boarding & settling in

Board your cruise at central piers, such as Eminönü or Kabataş. Settle in comfortably in warm indoor lounges with panoramic windows or shaded open decks as the boat pulls away, giving you first sweeping views of Istanbul’s skyline.

Sail between two continents

Experience the rare thrill of gliding between Europe and Asia. The Bosphorus offers a perspective unlike any land tour, with minarets, palaces, and bridges framing both shores as you float through one of the world’s busiest straits.

Onboard comfort and facilities

Depending on your chosen ticket, enjoy audio commentary in 10+ languages, freshly brewed Turkish coffee, snacks, or cold drinks. Shared yachts provide a social vibe, while private charters allow uninterrupted relaxation and a more intimate experience.

Capture postcard-worthy photos

See Dolmabahçe Palace’s ornate facade, the striking Bosphorus Bridge, Ortaköy Mosque’s riverside charm, and Rumeli Fortress’s towering stone walls. These sights are framed beautifully from the water, making them standout highlights of any Istanbul cruise.

Upgrade your experience

Enhance your cruise with private yacht rentals for groups, guided day trips to Princes’ Islands, or combos including iconic attractions like Galata Tower and Basilica Cistern. These add-ons can turn a standard boat ride into a full-day adventure.

A scenic return

The return leg offers a fresh angle of the landmarks you passed earlier. As the boat shifts direction, new photo opportunities appear, often with a different light and reflections dancing across the Bosphorus.

Things to know before booking a Bosphorus sightseeing cruise

Your booking strategy: Weekend and summer cruises are very popular. So, booking online in advance ensures you secure your preferred time. However, local ferries can be booked on the spot, though queues may form quickly.
Day vs evening cruises: Daytime cruises offer the clearest landmark views, while sunset Bosphorus cruises transform the ambiance when mosques and bridges light up in golden and blue tones, reflections shimmer on the water, and Istanbul’s skyline becomes even more lively.
Ticket options: You can choose between budget-friendly standard Bosphorus sightseeing cruises, full-day island cruises, premium yacht experiences with drinks and snacks, or combo tickets with attractions like Dolmabahçe Palace, Galata Tower, or Basilica Cistern.
Duration & pace: Pick a 90-minute tour for a quick highlight of the city’s landmarks, 2-hour cruises for a relaxed pace, or full-day ferry rides to the Princes’ Islands for an escape from the city.
Boat variety: Standard sightseeing vessels can seat larger groups, while smaller yachts feel more intimate. Private charters are ideal for families or friends wanting exclusivity.
Boarding convenience: Multiple piers (Eminönü, Kabataş, Sultanahmet) mean you can board near your hotel or sightseeing route.
Audio guide & commentary: Most sightseeing boats offer optional audio guides in 10+ languages. Some premium cruises include live guides for deeper insights.
Fixed vs flexible departures: Standard boats often run on fixed timetables, while some ferries allow flexible boarding throughout the day. Confirm timing when booking.
Weather notes: Cruises operate year-round. Open decks may close during rain or wind, but indoor seating ensures a comfortable ride in all conditions.
Accessibility: Larger ferries and boats usually have ramps and space for wheelchairs and strollers. Smaller yachts may have limited access.

Your Bosphorus boat tour & sightseeing cruise options

Guided sightseeing cruises

Daytime or Sunset Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise in Istanbul

Enjoy stunning views of Istanbul’s skyline and learn about the iconic landmarks you pass by with the free audio guide, available in multiple languages.
Duration: 2 hours

2-Hour Boat Tour in Bosphorus

Embark on a comprehensive exploration of the Bosphorus Strait and get historical insights about the sights you see from the expert guide.
Duration: 2 hours

Luxury yacht cruises

Bosphorus Luxury Yacht Day Cruise with Snacks & Turkish Coffee

Relax on a luxurious cruising experience and explore Istanbul’s Kanlica neighbourhood on the Asian side with gourmet snacks and Turkish coffee onboard.
Duration: 2.5 hours

2-Hour Bosphorus Luxury Private Yacht Rental in Istanbul

Experience an exclusive and personalized yacht cruise that is perfect for small gatherings. Upgrade your tickets for luxury transfers, a delicious meal, or a beverage of your choice.
Duration: 2 hours

From Istanbul’s Old City

Bosphorus and Golden Horn Cruise from the Old City of Istanbul

Explore the Golden Horn on the only Bosphorus sightseeing cruise that includes this historic waterway, and admire Istanbul’s Ottoman and Byzantine landmarks.
Duration: 2 hours

Istanbul: Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise from Old City

Embark on a guided Bosphorus sightseeing cruise from the Old City to experience Istanbul in all its beauty and learn about its centuries’ old history.
Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes

To & from Princes’ Islands

Fast Track Princes Island Round Trip Ferry Tickets with Audio Guide

Take a break from Istanbul’s vibrant energy and have a relaxing day at the Princes’ Islands. Enjoy round trip ferry tickets to explore its well-preserved historic landmarks and serene beaches with informative audio guides.
Duration: Varies depending on the chosen ferry schedule and island exploration time.

Find your best Bosphorus boat tour & sightseeing cruise match here

Cruise	Boarding point	Timings	Inclusions	Boat type
Bosphorus Daytime or Sunset Sightseeing Cruise	Dentur Avrasya Kabataş	10:30am, 11am, 12.45pm, 1pm, 1.45pm, 2.45pm, 4pm	Audio guide	2 Storey
2-Hour Boat Tour in Bosphorus	Topkapi Cafe, outside Topkapi Palace	12pm, 3:30pm	Expert English-speaking guide	2 Storey
Combo: Dolmabahce Palace Guided Tour + Bosphorus Cruise Tickets	Bosphorus pier, outside Dolmabahce Palace	10am, 11.30am, 12.45pm, 2pm	Audio guide	2 Storey
Bosphorus Luxury Yacht Day Cruise with Snacks & Turkish Coffee	Kabataş (Ş.Hatları)	10:30am, 2pm	Professional tour guide; Turkish coffee, beverages & snacks	Luxury yacht
2-Hour Bosphorus Luxury Private Yacht Rental in Istanbul	Bosphorus Yachts, Beşiktaş	3pm, 5pm	Complimentary drinks & snacks; Optional meal, alcoholic beverages, or round trip hotel transfers	Luxury yacht
Bosphorus and Golden Horn Cruise from the Old City of Istanbul	Gazete Market Kiosk	12.20pm, 3.50pm	Audio guide	2 Storey
Istanbul: Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise from Old City	BUDO Eminonu Pier	12pm, 3.30pm	Audio guide	3 Storey
Fast Track Princes Island Round Trip Ferry Tickets with Audio Guide	Kabataş Pier	9.45am, 10.30am, 10.45am, 11.45am	Round trip tickets; fast track entry; audio guide	Ferry

All your Bosphorus sightseeing cruise boarding points

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

Getting there:

By tram: T1 line to Eminönü, 2 min walk.
By metro: M2 to Halic, then a 10-minute walk.
By bus: Multiple city bus lines stop at Eminönü Square.
By taxi/car: Located beside the Galata Bridge, with limited parking nearby.

Famous for: Bustling waterfront with views of Galata Bridge, Spice Bazaar, and the Golden Horn. Perfect starting point if you’re staying in Sultanahmet.

Address: Omer Avni, Ido Kabataş Deniz Otobusu, Beyoğlu, İstanbul | Find on map

Getting there:

By metro: M2 line to Taksim, then a 10-12 min walk downhill.
By tram: T1 to Kabataş, then an 8-10 min walk.
By bus: Routes serving the Dolmabahçe/Taksim stop nearby.
By taxi/car: Accessible via the Dolmabahçe coast road; parking is limited.

Famous for: Quieter alternative pier near Dolmabahçe Palace, ideal if you’re staying around Taksim or Beyoğlu. Offers scenic departure views of the palace facade.

Address: Ömer Avni, 34427 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye | Find on map

Getting there:

By tram: T1 line terminates at Kabataş, 2 min walk.
By metro: The Funicular connects Kabataş to Taksim in 2 minutes.
By bus: Multiple buses stop at Kabataş terminal.
By taxi/car: Located along the Bosphorus coast road, parking is scarce.
The

Famous for: Popular departure point near Dolmabahçe Palace, easy links to Taksim and Sultanahmet. Great for joining luxury yacht and Princes’ Islands cruises.

Bosphorus sightseeing cruise routes explained

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

Bosphorus Strait cruise

Route followed: Sails along the Bosphorus Strait, weaving between Europe and Asia.
Sites covered: Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Bosphorus Bridge, Rumeli Fortress, Maiden’s Tower, Beylerbeyi Palace, Topkapi Palace, and Asian shoreline mansions.
Duration: 90 minutes to 2.5 hours
Ideal for: First-time visitors wanting to see Istanbul’s top landmarks from the water in one journey.

Ferry docked at Princes Islands, Istanbul with colorful houses and lush greenery in the background.

Princes’ Islands cruise

Route followed: Departs from central piers and heads southeast across the Sea of Marmara toward the Princes’ Islands.
Sites covered: Büyükada (the largest island) and Heybeliada (if upgraded), plus views of Istanbul’s skyline fading into the horizon.
Duration: 1-1.5 hours each way, full-day experience.
Ideal for: Travelers seeking a relaxing day trip away from the city, with nature, history, and car-free island exploration.

Plan your Bosphorus cruises >

What you’ll see on a Bosphorus sightseeing cruise

Dolmabahce Palace

From the deck, the palace stretches grandly along the waterfront, its ornate white facade shimmering on the water, best admired from the Bosphorus, where its sheer scale is most visible.

Plan your Bosphorus sightseeing cruise experience

General cruise timings:

Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Audio Guide: 5pm-6pm
Bosphorus Luxury Yacht Day Cruise with Snacks & Turkish Coffee: 10am-2pm
Istanbul to Princes’ Islands Round-Trip Ferry Tickets: 8:30am
Bosphorus Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Soft Drinks & Snacks: 9am-11pm

Bosphorus cruise timings

Best time of the day:

Daytime: Taking a Bosphorus sightseeing cruise during the day provides clear views of Istanbul's historic landmarks from the water, allowing you to take stunning photographs.
Evening: At sunset, the city is bathed in golden light, with its landmarks silhouetted against the darkening sky, forming a breathtaking panorama.

Best season/month:

April-May & September-November: Spring and autumn mark Istanbul's off-peak season, offering mild weather and temperatures averaging 12-25°C. With fewer tourists, these are the optimal months to take a Bosphorus sightseeing cruise.
Summer (June to August): Istanbul's peak tourist season boasts clear skies and sunny weather. But summers can get very hot. The city also sees large tourist crowds, and your expenses are likely to be higher.

Comfortable seating arrangements
Onboard restrooms on most boats
Snacks, beverages, and refreshments on select cruises
Shaded areas/heated indoors
Open-air observation decks
Safety equipment, including life jackets and emergency exits
Professional crew

Wheelchair user demonstrating accessibility features

Most Bosphorus sightseeing boats and ferries have ramps for boarding and space for strollers or wheelchairs. Private yacht rentals may have limited accessibility.
Larger vessels often include accessible restrooms, though smaller yachts and boats may not.
Elderly travelers should board early. The crew is trained to assist passengers with mobility needs.

Pick the left deck when heading north, as landmarks like Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, and Rumeli Fortress are best seen from the European side. Left deck seats give you unobstructed angles.
For Maiden’s Tower views, sit starboard on return. The islet sits near Üsküdar on the Asian side. You’ll catch the best photos from the starboard side as the boat circles back.
Avoid the noon departures, as harsh overhead light washes out photos. Late afternoon or sunset cruises give the best photography conditions.
Some cruises blow the ship’s horn when passing the narrowest stretch near the fortress. It's a unique acoustic moment as the sound echoes off the cliffs.
Stay on deck when passing Ortaköy Mosque. The mosque sits directly beneath the Bosphorus Bridge, and the water-level angle gives you one of Istanbul’s most iconic postcard shots.
Sit upstairs on Princes’ Islands ferries. Open upper decks give you panoramic views of Istanbul’s skyline, fading into the Marmara Sea.

Other types of Bosphorus cruises

Bosphorus dinner cruises

Indulge in a luxurious dining experience onboard while admiring the illuminated Istanbul skyline along the Bosphorus at night.

Explore Bosphorus dinner cruises

Bosphorus evening cruises

Witness the breathtaking sunset over Istanbul's horizon and enjoy an enchanting evening cruise along the scenic Bosphorus Strait.

Explore Bosphorus evening cruises

Bosphorus yacht tours

Experience the ultimate luxury with a private yacht tour, offering personalized itineraries and exclusive amenities for a memorable voyage.

Explore Bosphorus yacht tours

Frequently asked questions about Bosphorus boat tours & sightseeing cruises

How long does a standard Bosphorus sightseeing cruise last?

Most Bosphorus sightseeing cruises last 1.5-2.5 hours, though extended tours covering the Princes Island can run up to 4-6 hours.

Is a Bosphorus sightseeing cruise worth it?

Absolutely. It’s the best way to experience Istanbul’s skyline, iconic bridges, and palaces from the water, offering clear perspectives you can’t get from land.

Is live commentary or an audio guide included on all Bosphorus sightseeing cruises?

Yes, most cruises provide either live commentary or multilingual audio guides, sharing stories of Ottoman palaces, historic mosques, and neighborhoods as you sail along the strait.

What’s the difference between a daytime sightseeing cruise and an evening or sunset cruise in Istanbul?

Daytime cruises highlight Istanbul’s architecture and bustling waterfronts, while sunset and evening cruises offer romantic views of illuminated palaces, bridges, and mosques glowing against the night sky.

Do I need to book Bosphorus sightseeing cruises in advance?

Booking online in advance is recommended, especially for sunset or dinner cruises, as popular time slots and window seats often sell out quickly.

Do Bosphorus boat tours and sightseeing cruises operate year-round?

Yes, Bosphorus sightseeing cruises typically operate year-round, with schedules adjusted according to seasonal demand and weather conditions.

Is seating assigned or first-come, first-served on the Bosphorus sightseeing cruises?

Seating is generally first-come, first-served. Arriving early ensures prime spots on open decks or near panoramic windows for the best views and photos.

Are children allowed on Bosphorus boat tours and sightseeing cruises?

Yes, children are generally allowed on Bosphorus sightseeing cruises, but age restrictions may apply for certain tour packages or activities.

What’s the best side of the boat to sit on during a Bosphorus cruise?

Sit on the left side when heading north for European shore views, and the right side for the Asian side. Switch sides on return.

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Combo: Dolmabahçe Palace & Harem Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide + Bosphorus Cruise

Skip the lines and explore Dolmabahçe Palace with a guided highlights tour—includes harem, gardens, and a Bosphorus cruise.

Everything you get: Fast-track entry to Dolmabahçe Palace, a 15-minute highlights tour with an expert English-speaking guide, multilingual audio guide in 10+ languages, access to the Selamlık (the official quarters), entry to the Harem and the Palace Gardens, a 90-minute Bosphorus cruise, skip-the-line access to the sightseeing boat, and audio commentary for the cruise in 9+ languages, meet and greet with a marine officer at Kabataş pier, offline map, and route plan.
Why choose this: Skip the hassle of separate bookings and beat the crowds with skip-the-line palace entry. Learn about sultans, royal rituals, and Ottoman architecture as you explore at your own pace, then take in stunning views of Istanbul from the water, with key landmarks lining the Bosphorus.

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