Name: Istanbul Bosphorus Yacht Cruise with Guide and Asian Side Stop
SKU: 69435P26
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.9 (1903 reviews)

WizardTrip

Istanbul Bosphorus Yacht Cruise with Guide and Asian Side Stop

4.9(1.9 k)· Istanbul· By Bosphorus Cruise Tours Istanbul Watch the video

Free cancellation

From

€40per person

1 to 30 travelers per booking.

Options2 of 2 available on this day

Time

1 × Adult × €50€50

Total€50

About the activity

Embark on an unforgettable journey across the Bosphorus, bridging Europe and Asia. With a knowledgeable, multilingual guide, you'll discover Istanbul from a unique vantage point on the water. This cruise is designed for small groups aboard a luxury yacht, ensuring a more personal, comfortable, and high-quality experience compared to crowded tours. Enjoy a stop on the Asian side, in either Beylerbeyi or Kanlıca, to explore a tranquil neighborhood by the water. As you sail, you'll pass by Istanbul's most iconic landmarks, including Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and Maiden's Tower. Admire the elegant districts of Ortakoy and Bebek, cruise beneath the Bosphorus bridges, and take in the historic Rumeli Fortress. Throughout this 2.5-hour excursion, feel free to move between decks, relax, and soak in the panoramic views while your guide shares captivating stories and insights. This scenic cruise beautifully blends history, culture, and comfort, making it an essential Istanbul experience.

What's included

✓Enjoy authentic Turkish coffee served with traditional Turkish delight.
✓Savor light snacks, freshly baked savory pastries, and a seasonal fresh fruit platter during your cruise.
✓Benefit from the expertise of a professional English-speaking tour guide.
✓Receive hotel pickup and drop-off services if you select this option.

What is not included

✕Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase onboard.
✕Hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included unless the corresponding option is selected.

Itinerary

1
Bosphorus Strait
The Bosphorus, known as Ox-ford in English, stretches for approximately twenty miles. It can resemble a river at times and an enclosed lake at others, before transforming into a rocky, wild channel as it nears the Black Sea. The Bosphorus flows with a calm and steady rhythm, echoed by the gentle splashes of passing caiques. Its allure lies not only in its light but also in the dazzling white of the sun reflecting on its surface, set against a backdrop of a clear blue sky. This strait divides the city of Istanbul, built on seven hills, into two distinct halves. As described by Julia Pardoe, an early admirer of the city: 'Its clear calm sky, its glittering sea, its amphitheater of thickly-peopled hills, its geographical position, its political importance and above all, its surprising novelty, tend to make every day in that gorgeous scene, and under that sunny sky, a season of intense enjoyment.'
· 2 h 15 min· Admission included
2
Dolmabahce Palace
Until the 17th century, the area where the palace stands today was one of the bays along the Bosphorus. It is said that the legendary sailing vessel, the ARGOS, on which the Argonauts embarked on their quest for the Golden Fleece, anchored in this very spot.
· Non-stop passage
3
Ortakoy
The Ortaköy Mosque, officially named Büyük Mecidiye Camii, is located in Beşiktaş, Istanbul, Turkey. It sits right by the water at Ortaköy pier square, one of the most beloved spots along the Bosphorus.
· Non-stop passage
4
Bosphorus Bridge
Inaugurated on October 29, 1973, marking the fiftieth anniversary of the Turkish Republic, this suspension bridge boasts the longest span in Europe and ranks fourth globally. It measures 1560 meters (1706 yards) in total length and 33.4 meters (110 ft) in width. The distance between its pylons is 1074 meters (1175 yards), with a clearance of 64 meters (210 ft) above sea level. The construction was managed by a British-German consortium. A second bridge, connecting Europe and Asia over the Bosphorus, was scheduled for completion in 1989 between Emirgan and Kanlica.
· Non-stop passage
5
Dolmabahce Mosque
The Dolmabahçe Mosque is a significant religious site located in Istanbul, Turkey. Its construction was commissioned by Bezmi Alem Valide Sultan, the queen mother.
· Non-stop passage
6
Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge
The Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, also recognized as the Second Bosphorus Bridge, is a vital crossing in Istanbul, Turkey, spanning the Bosphorus strait. Upon its completion in 1988, it held the distinction of having the fifth-longest suspension bridge span worldwide; it currently ranks as the 24th.
· Non-stop passage
7
Rumeli Fortress
At the narrowest point of the Bosphorus stands the Rumelihisarr Fortress, erected by Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror on the European shore. The Sultan himself initiated the construction on March 26, 1452, aiming to control maritime passage through the Bosphorus and establish a base for his assault on the city. The fortress was built on the ancient site of Hermaion and was completed in just five months on August 28, 1452. Cannons mounted on its towers could command this narrowest stretch of the Bosphorus, directly opposite the older Anadoluhisarr fortress. Historically, Darius had constructed a pontoon bridge at this location in 500 BC to transport over 700,000 soldiers. For Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror, this fortress was the key to Constantinople. The design of the walls and towers prominently features the names of the Prophet Muhammad and the Conqueror, Mehmet.
· Non-stop passage
8
Beylerbeyi
Enjoy a relaxing stop in either Beylerbeyi or Kanlıca, where you can step ashore on the Asian side, stroll along the waterfront, explore charming streets, and soak in the peaceful, authentic atmosphere of Istanbul away from the crowds. You can also visit the beautiful gardens of Beylerbeyi Palace.
· 15 min
9
Beylerbeyi Palace
Located on the Asiatic shore of the Bosphorus, nestled between the villages of Kuzguncuk and Cengelköy, the palace was constructed by Sultan Abdülaziz in 1865. The Beylerbeyi Palace, viewed from the Bosphorus, appears like a white vision from a fairy tale. It stands as the most extravagant royal residence of the 19th century, with millions invested in its creation. Built entirely of marble, it surpasses the palaces of European monarchs. Empress Eugénie stayed here during her visit in 1869, as did Czar Nicholas II of Russia. Edward VIII was also a guest in 1936. Marble carpets are adorned with stone lionesses, and swans glide gracefully in an unobtrusive pool where pigeons fly to catch the fountain's spray on their wings.
· Non-stop passage
10
Galata Koprusu
The Galata Bridge is a significant structure spanning the Golden Horn in Istanbul, Turkey. Particularly since the late 19th century, the bridge has been a recurring motif in Turkish literature, theater, poetry, and novels.
· Non-stop passage
11
Galata Tower
The Galata Tower, referred to as Christea Turris by the Genoese, is a medieval stone tower situated in the Galata/Karaköy district of Istanbul, Turkey. It is located just north of where the Golden Horn meets the Bosphorus.
· Non-stop passage
12
Kucuksu Pavilion
The Kucuksu Palace, also known as the Göksu Palace, is a summer residence situated on the Asiatic shore of the Bosphorus, between the villages of Anadoluhisan and Kandilli. Initially built by Mahmut I in 1749, the palace underwent renovations during the reigns of Selim III and Ahmet II. Sultan Abdülmecit further restored it in 1857, and Sultan Abdülaziz gave it a new facade, redecorating and refurbishing the interior. It is a small yet elegant structure that stretches along the Bosphorus shoreline, enclosed by intricate cast-iron railings. The waters of the Bosphorus wash its glittering marble terraces and occasionally reach its latticed and mysterious alcoves.
· Non-stop passage
13
KIz Kulesi
Approximately 180 meters from the Üsküdar shores stands this tower, known by two different names. Europeans called it the Leander's Tower, believing it was here that Leander drowned while attempting to swim the Bosphorus to reach his beloved Hero, a priestess of Aphrodite. However, the legend does not confirm Leander crossing at this specific point. The story of the Maiden's Tower, which remains unverified, tells of Constantine building the tower to protect his daughter after a magician predicted she would be bitten by a snake. Imprisoned in the tower, she grew to womanhood until an imperial palace officer fell in love with her. He sent her a basket of peaches and figs, in which a snake was hidden. The snake bit the princess, who was near death when the officer arrived and sucked the poison from her arm. The tower was rebuilt during the reign of Ahmet III.
· Non-stop passage

How to use your ticket

Your mobile or paper ticket is accepted. Please present one ticket per booking.

Meeting point and return

Your meeting point is at Dolmabahçe Mosque. Our team will be there holding a VELENA TRAVEL sign. Please ensure you arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.

Hotel pick-up is available for guests staying in the Fatih and Beyoglu areas only.

Drop-off service is provided to Taksim and Sultanahmet Squares.

Meeting point

Mosquée de Dolmabahçe

Ömer Avni, Meclis-i Mebusan Cd. No:34, 34427 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Practical information

Infants and small children can comfortably ride in a pram or stroller.
Convenient public transportation options are accessible nearby.
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap during the tour.
This tour is suitable for individuals of all physical fitness levels.
Restroom facilities are available on board the yacht for your convenience.

Activity options

With Hotel Transfers
This option includes hotel pickup.
Without Hotel Transfer
This option does not include hotel pickup or drop-off.

Duration

2 h 30

How to prepare for your experience

Arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before departure.
Consider the hotel transfer option for convenience.
Bring your camera to capture the stunning views.
Enjoy the complimentary coffee and snacks.
Ask your guide questions about Istanbul's rich history.

Sail between continents and discover Istanbul's magic from the water on a luxury yacht.

Cancellation conditions

To receive a full refund, please ensure your cancellation is made at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Any questions?

Product code: 69435P26

Activity offered by Bosphorus Cruise Tours Istanbul via Viator.

Who is this activity suitable for?

Tourists
Couples
Families
History enthusiasts

Activity essentials

Experience a luxury yacht cruise on the Bosphorus.
Discover iconic Istanbul landmarks from the water.
Enjoy a stop on the Asian side for a local experience.
Benefit from a knowledgeable multilingual guide.
Small group setting for a more intimate experience.

Istanbul: good to know

Population: 15,655,924 (2023)
Elevation: 100 m
Currency: Turkish lira
Official language: Turkish
Driving: on the right
Power plugs: C, F · 230 V
Emergency number: 112
Capital city: Ankara

Average temperatures

6°Jan
6°Feb
9°Mar
12°Apr
17°May
22°Jun
25°Jul
25°Aug
22°Sept
17°Oct
12°Nov
8°Dec

Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.

Frequently asked questions

What is the duration of the Bosphorus cruise?

The cruise lasts for 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Is hotel pickup included?

Hotel pickup is available from the Fatih and Beyoglu Areas only, and only if you select the 'With Hotel Transfers' option.

What should I do if the weather is bad?

The tour will be cancelled if the weather is bad. You will be notified and offered a refund or alternative date.

Can I buy alcoholic drinks on board?

Yes, alcoholic drinks are available for purchase on board.

What is the cancellation policy?

For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.94.9(1.9 k)

5 stars

1.8 k

4 stars

3 stars

2 stars

1 star

Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.

★★★★★Viator review
Long transfer to yacht...
David_T, October 2026
Long transfer to yacht with return driver diverting to pick up family and taking one hour for a 4 mile journey. The cruise itself was great.
★★★★★Viator review
Great excursion
Jeanne_W, October 2026
Great tour on a beautiful yacht! Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and friendly! Highly recommend!
Response from the operator · Tugrul G
Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re delighted that you enjoyed the beautiful yacht and appreciated our guide’s knowledge and friendliness. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we hope to welcome you aboard again on your next visit to Istanbul!
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Hignly enjoyable in 2 continents
anngL5063FW, October 2026
Pick up was very well organised and our guide was excellent. All crew very friendly. All transport clean and modern. The only negative was the quality of the snacks. Not as advertised. Nevertheless trip was well worth it.
Response from the operator · Tugrul G
Thank you for your balanced feedback! We're delighted you appreciated the well-organized transfers, excellent guide, friendly crew, and comfortable transport. We're sorry the snacks didn't meet your expectations or match the description. We'll review this with our team to ensure greater consistency. We're glad you still found the cruise worthwhile!
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Excellent trip
springrival, October 2026
Great boat, food and soft drinks included with optional alcohol
Response from the operator · Tugrul G
Thank you for your feedback! We're delighted you enjoyed the yacht, refreshments, and onboard service. We appreciate you sharing your experience and are glad you had a great time cruising the Bosphorus!
★★★★★Viator review
Boat trip
Maggie_M, October 2026
This was truly a memorable trip. After the huddle and bustle of the busy city it was lovely to float down the Bopherus and see Istanbul on a different perspective. The crew were amazing. Informative, caring, funny and all told a great trip
Response from the operator · Tugrul G
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We are delighted that our Bosphorus cruise offered you a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul and a beautiful new perspective of the city. It is especially rewarding to hear that our crew made your experience memorable with their knowledge, kindness, and sense of humor. Your kind words mean a great deal to our team, and we hope to welcome you aboard again on your next visit to Istanbul!

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Frequently asked questions about Istanbul

What is there to do in Istanbul?

Istanbul has 52 activities, tours and day trips you can book online. Among the most booked: « Istanbul Old City Tour: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Grand Bazaar », « Butalux - Bosphorus Luxury Dinner Cruise », « Private Istanbul Airport (IST) Transfer To/From City Center ».

What are the top-rated activities in Istanbul?

According to traveller reviews: « IST Airport Transportation @ Istanbul Hotels » (5.0/5, 374 reviews) ; « Istanbul Hagia Sophia, Topkapi, Bosphorus Small-Group Tour » (5.0/5, 573 reviews) ; « WONDERS of ISTANBUL : Full Day Private Guided City Tour » (5.0/5, 489 reviews).

Can you cancel an activity in Istanbul for free?

Usually, yes: 24 of the 24 most popular activities in Istanbul offer free cancellation. The exact terms are shown on each activity page before you book.