Bosphorus Sunset Cruise Istanbul with Audio Guide, Book Online
About this tour
See Istanbul from the deck of a boat as you sail the Bosphorus, the strait that splits the city between its European and Asian sides. You'll glide past Ottoman palaces, wooden waterfront mansions, and old fortresses lining both shores, with the skyline framing every photo. Choose the sailing that fits your plans: a daytime sightseeing cruise, a dinner cruise with onboard entertainment, or a private luxury yacht. Book online and compare verified options in one place.
Highlights
- See Istanbul's landmarks from the water as you cruise the Bosphorus
- Sail between the European and Asian sides of the city
- Relax on a scenic sailing, with audio guides available on some cruises
- Pass Ottoman palaces, wooden waterfront mansions, and old shoreline fortresses
- Get open water views of the skyline that are hard to photograph from land
- Pick from sightseeing cruises, dinner cruises with entertainment, or private yachts
Good to Know Before You Sail
Sailing times depend on the type of cruise and the season. Classic sightseeing cruises run through the day, roughly between 09:00 and 23:00, while brunch cruises tend to leave around 10:00. Sunset and early-evening sailings depart between 17:00 and 18:00 in summer and a bit earlier in winter. Dinner cruises usually start between 19:30 and 20:30, pairing nighttime views of the strait with a meal and onboard entertainment. Departure times differ from one operator to the next, so check the exact schedule when you book.
There's no dress code for a Bosphorus cruise, and comfortable casual clothes are fine for most daytime sailings. For dinner cruises, smart-casual is the way to go. Since it can get cooler and windier out on the water than on shore, dress in layers so you can adjust as the temperature shifts during the cruise.
Available Days / Times
- Monday
- Tuesday
- Wednesday
- Thursday
- Friday
- Saturday
- Sunday
Important Information
- Timing and inclusions differ by cruise type: sightseeing, dinner cruise with entertainment, or private yacht
- Most cruises leave from central piers like Eminonu, Kabatas, or Karakoy; confirm your exact departure point, as it varies by cruise and operator
- Arrive early for smooth boarding, especially in peak season
- Check the forecast and dress for it; the water runs cooler and windier than land
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for daytime sailings, and a light jacket for evening ones
- Take motion-sickness medication ahead of time if you're prone to seasickness
- Snacks and drinks are often sold on board, though this varies by operator
- Follow the crew's instructions and all onboard safety rules
- Arrive at least 20 minutes before departure, or 30 minutes for dinner cruises and private yachts
- A mobile voucher or printed ticket works for boarding; bring photo ID
- Smoking is 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