Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise & Blue Mosque Guided Tour
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About this tour
A Bosphorus cruise is the easiest way to see Istanbul from the water, sailing the strait that splits the city between Europe and Asia. You'll glide past Ottoman palaces, old waterfront mansions, and stone fortresses lining both banks. Pick the sailing that fits your day: a classic sightseeing cruise, a dinner cruise with onboard entertainment, or a private luxury yacht. Most trips include a one-hour guided tour in English and run about two hours on the water.
Highlights
- See Istanbul's landmarks from the water, a vantage point you can't get on land
- Sail the strait dividing Europe and Asia
- Kick back on a scenic sail, with audio guides available
- Cruise past Ottoman palaces, waterfront mansions, and old fortresses along both shores
- Great photo angles on the Istanbul skyline
- Choose a sightseeing sail, a dinner cruise with entertainment, or a private yacht
Included / Excluded
- One-hour guided tour in English
- Two-hour cruise
Good to Know Before Your Bosphorus Cruise
Departure times on the Bosphorus depend on the type of cruise and the time of year, so it's worth confirming the exact schedule when you book. Classic sightseeing sails run through much of the day, roughly 09:00 to 23:00. Brunch cruises tend to leave around 10:00. Sunset and early-evening sails go out between 17:00 and 18:00 in summer, a little earlier in the colder months. Dinner cruises usually push off between 19:30 and 20:30, pairing nighttime views of the strait with a meal and onboard entertainment.
There's no formal dress code, and casual, comfortable clothing works fine for daytime sailings. For a dinner cruise, smart-casual is the way to go. Since it's cooler and breezier out on the water than on shore, layers are your friend so you can adjust as the temperature shifts during the trip.
Available Days / Times
- Monday : 09:45, 10:45, 14:00
- Tuesday
- Wednesday : 09:45, 10:45, 14:00
- Thursday : 09:45, 10:45, 14:00
- Friday : 14:00
- Saturday : 09:45, 10:45, 14:00
- Sunday : 09:45, 10:45, 14:00
Important Information
- Timing and what's included differ by cruise type: sightseeing, dinner with entertainment, or private yacht
- Most sail from central piers like Eminönü, Kabataş, or Karaköy; confirm your exact departure point, as it varies by cruise and operator
- Come early for a smooth boarding, 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 by day; pack a light jacket for evening sails
- If you get seasick, take preventive medication beforehand
- Snacks and drinks are often sold on board, though this varies by operator
- Follow the crew's directions 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 works for boarding; bring photo ID
- Smoking allowed only in designated areas, where provided
- Alcohol and large luggage are generally not permitted on board
- Don't litter or throw anything into the water
- Above all, relax and enjoy the ride