Istanbul Two Continents Bus Tour with Bosphorus Cruise
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About this tour
This cruise takes you out onto the Bosphorus, the strait that splits Istanbul between Europe and Asia, for views of the shoreline you can't get from land. You'll pass Ottoman palaces, old waterfront mansions, and centuries-old fortresses as you sail. There's a range of options here, from a straightforward daytime sightseeing run to a dinner cruise with onboard entertainment or a private yacht. Hotel pickup, lunch, a licensed guide, and complimentary tea and WiFi are part of the package on the guided version.
Highlights
- See Istanbul's landmarks from the water along the Bosphorus
- Sail between the European and Asian sides of the city
- Relaxed sightseeing cruise with optional audio guide
- Pass Ottoman palaces, waterfront mansions, and old fortresses
- Photograph the Istanbul skyline from the water
- Choose a sightseeing cruise, dinner cruise with entertainment, or private yacht
Included / Excluded
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Beylerbeyi Palace admission
- Cable car ticket
- Lunch with a soft drink
- Licensed professional guide
- Free tea, Nescafe, and WiFi on board
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- 2-hour Bosphorus cruise
- All fees and taxes
Good to Know Before Your Bosphorus Cruise
When your cruise sails depends on the type you pick and the time of year. Classic sightseeing cruises run through most of the day, roughly 09:00 to 23:00. Brunch cruises tend to leave around 10:00, and sunset sailings go out between 17:00 and 18:00 in summer, a little earlier in winter. Dinner cruises usually push off between 19:30 and 20:30, pairing nighttime views on the water with a meal and live entertainment. Times shift from one operator to the next, so confirm your exact departure when you book.
There's no dress code for a daytime sailing, so wear whatever's comfortable. Dinner cruises call for something a bit smarter, smart-casual is the right call. Either way, pack layers, since it tends to be cooler and windier out on the Bosphorus than it feels on land.
Available Days / Times
- Monday
- Tuesday
- Wednesday
- Thursday
- Friday
- Saturday
- Sunday
Important Information
- Timing and inclusions differ by cruise type: sightseeing, dinner with entertainment, or private yacht.
- Departures are usually from central piers (Eminonu, Kabatas, or Karakoy); confirm your exact pier in advance, as it varies by cruise and provider.
- Come early to board smoothly, especially in peak season.
- Check the forecast; the water runs cooler and windier than shore.
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for daytime; a light jacket for evening sailings.
- Take seasickness medication beforehand if you're prone to it.
- Snacks and drinks are often sold on board, though this varies by operator.
- Follow the crew's instructions and onboard safety rules.
- Arrive 20 minutes early, or 30 minutes for dinner cruises and private yachts.
- A mobile voucher or printed ticket works for boarding; bring photo ID.
- Smoking only in designated areas where available.
- Alcohol and large luggage are generally not allowed on board.
- Do not litter or throw anything into the water.
- Relax and enjoy the ride.