Bosphorus & Golden Horn Cruise with Audio Guide (Megapass)
+8
About this tour
Sail the Bosphorus and Golden Horn on a scenic cruise between Europe and Asia, with an audio guide to point out the highlights as you go. From the water you'll pass Ottoman palaces, old wooden waterfront mansions, and centuries-old fortresses, with Istanbul's skyline lined up for photos the whole way. Options range from a daytime sightseeing cruise to a dinner cruise with onboard entertainment or a private yacht, so you can pick what fits your day and budget.
Highlights
- See Istanbul's landmarks line the shore as you view them from the Bosphorus
- Cruise between the European and Asian sides of the city in one trip
- Optional audio guide points out what you're passing along the way
- Pass Ottoman palaces, wooden waterfront mansions, and old fortresses on the banks
- Photograph the skyline from an angle you can't get on land
- Pick a sightseeing cruise, a dinner cruise with entertainment, or a private yacht
Good to Know Before You Sail
Departure times shift with the type of cruise and the season, so it's worth confirming the exact schedule when you book. Classic sightseeing cruises run through the day, roughly 09:00 to 23:00, and brunch cruises usually leave around 10:00. Sunset and early-evening sailings go out between 17:00 and 18:00 in summer and a bit earlier in winter. Dinner cruises generally push off between 19:30 and 20:30, pairing nighttime views of the Bosphorus with a meal and onboard entertainment.
There's no dress code for a Bosphorus cruise, so comfortable casual clothes are fine for most daytime sailings, while smart-casual suits a dinner cruise. Because it tends to run cooler and windier on the water than on shore, dress in layers so you can adjust as the temperature changes.
Available Days / Times
- Monday : 12:00, 15:30
- Tuesday
- Wednesday : 12:00, 15:30
- Thursday : 12:00, 15:30
- Friday : 12:00, 15:30
- Saturday : 12:00, 15:30
- Sunday : 12:00, 15:30
Important Information
- Timing and inclusions differ by cruise type: sightseeing, dinner cruise with entertainment, or private yacht
- Most cruises leave from Eminonu, Kabatas, or Karakoy piers; confirm your exact pier when booking
- Arrive early to board smoothly, especially in peak season
- Check the forecast and dress for cooler, windier conditions on the water
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for daytime; a light jacket for evening sailings
- Prone to seasickness? Take preventive medication beforehand
- Snacks and drinks are often sold on board, though this varies by operator
- Follow crew instructions and onboard safety rules
- Arrive 20 minutes before departure; 30 minutes for dinner cruises or private yachts
- A mobile voucher or printed ticket works for boarding; bring a photo ID
- Smoking allowed only in designated areas, where provided
- Alcohol and large luggage are generally not allowed on board
- Do not litter or throw anything into the water
- Relax and enjoy the ride