Bosphorus Cruise from Kabatas with Audio Guide, Istanbul
About this tour
This Bosphorus cruise from Kabatas lets you see Istanbul from the water as you sail the strait that splits the city between Europe and Asia. You'll pass Ottoman palaces, old waterfront mansions, and centuries-old fortresses along both shores, with an audio guide filling in the story as you go. Choose the version that fits your day: a classic daytime sightseeing sail, a dinner cruise with onboard entertainment, or a private luxury yacht. It's an easy hour or two on the water and one of the better vantage points for photos of the skyline.
Highlights
- See Istanbul's landmarks from the water along the Bosphorus
- Sail the strait dividing Europe and Asia
- Optional audio guide narrates the sights as you cruise
- Pass Ottoman palaces, waterfront mansions, and old fortresses on the shore
- Photograph the city skyline from an angle you can't get on land
- Pick a sightseeing sail, a dinner cruise with entertainment, or a private yacht
Good to Know Before You Cruise
Sailing times depend on which cruise you pick and the time of year. Daytime sightseeing cruises run more or less all day, roughly 09:00 to 23:00, and brunch cruises usually leave around 10:00. Sunset and early-evening sails go out between 17:00 and 18:00 in summer, a bit earlier in winter. Dinner cruises generally cast off between 19:30 and 20:30, pairing nighttime views on the Bosphorus with a meal and onboard entertainment. Since exact departures vary by operator, check the schedule for your specific booking.
There's no dress code for a Bosphorus cruise, so casual, comfortable clothes work for most daytime sailings. For a dinner cruise, smart-casual is the way to go. It tends to be cooler and windier out on the water than on land, so bring layers you can add or remove as the temperature shifts during the trip.
Available Days / Times
- Monday
- Tuesday
- Wednesday
- Thursday
- Friday
- Saturday
- Sunday
Important Information
- Timing and inclusions differ by cruise type: classic sightseeing, dinner cruise with entertainment, or private yacht
- Departs from a central pier such as Eminonu, Kabatas, or Karakoy; confirm the exact point when booking, as it varies by cruise and operator
- Arrive early to board smoothly, especially in peak season
- Check the forecast and dress for it; the water runs cooler and windier than shore
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for daytime sails; a light jacket for evening
- Take seasickness medication beforehand if you're prone to it
- Snacks and drinks are often sold on board, though this varies by operator
- Follow crew instructions and onboard safety rules
- Arrive at least 20 minutes before departure; 30 minutes for dinner cruises or private yachts
- A mobile voucher or printed ticket is accepted for boarding; bring photo ID
- Smoking allowed only in designated areas, where available
- Alcohol and large luggage are generally not permitted on board
- Don't litter or throw anything into the water
- Sit back and enjoy the ride