Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Turkish Show, Private Table (No Alcohol)
About this tour
Spend an evening on the Bosphorus, the strait that splits Istanbul between Europe and Asia, aboard a dinner cruise with a live Turkish show. You'll get a multi-course dinner of mezes and grilled dishes, folk dancing, belly dancing, and music, all while the city's lit-up palaces, fortresses, and old waterfront mansions slide past. It's a relaxed, festive night out that works well for couples, families, and groups alike, with vegetarian options available on request.
Highlights
- Cruise the Bosphorus by night, between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul
- Multi-course Turkish dinner with mezes and grilled specialties
- Live show with folk dancing, belly dancing, and traditional music
- See lit-up palaces, fortresses, and old waterfront mansions along the shore
- A taste of Istanbul's nightlife and culture from out on the water
- Easygoing, festive setting that suits couples, families, and groups
Good to Know Before Your Cruise
Bosphorus dinner cruises run in the evening, with most departures falling between 19:30 and 20:30 depending on the operator and the season. Times shift, so confirm the exact departure when you book. Boarding tends to begin early, which is another reason to show up ahead of the listed time.
There's no strict dress code, but smart casual is the safe bet. Wear something comfortable for the weather, and since part of the evening may be spent on open-air decks, pack a light jacket or sweater, especially in the cooler months when the wind off the water picks up.
Available Days / Times
- Monday : 20:30
- Tuesday : 20:30
- Wednesday : 20:30
- Thursday : 20:30
- Friday : 20:30
- Saturday : 20:30
- Sunday : 20:30
Important Information
- What's included differs by cruise: some add alcoholic drinks, a private table, or hotel transfers, others keep it a traditional dinner setup. Check before you book.
- Cruises book up fast in summer; reserve a few weeks ahead to lock in your cruise type, seating, and menu.
- Accessibility varies by boat. Many are stroller-friendly, but full wheelchair access can be limited on smaller or older vessels.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes early; boarding starts early and gives you time to settle in or ask for a window seat where available.
- It can get breezy on the water at night, so dress in layers.
- Menus are usually a 3- or 4-course Turkish set with mezes, grilled dishes, and dessert. Vegetarian options are common; tell the operator about dietary needs ahead of time.
- Follow the crew's and staff's instructions.
- Latecomers can't be accommodated; arrive 30 to 45 minutes before departure for check-in and boarding.
- No outside food or drink allowed on board.
- Put trash in the bins provided.
- Be respectful of the performances and cultural traditions.
- Above all, sit back and enjoy the Bosphorus.