bosphorus luxury yacht tour

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8 Best Istanbul Bosphorus Cruises: boat tours, tickets, prices

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The Bosphorus Cruise is one of the most famous, distinctive, and amazing types of entertainment available during your trip to Istanbul . Discover and enjoy our pick of the best Bosphorus cruises in Istanbul. Public ferries, boat tours, sunset cruises, lunch or luxury romantic dinners on luxury yachts. The best way to experience Istanbul by sea.

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It is also one of the greatest ways to experience and appreciate the city’s most gorgeous views and sensations from the water. Also one of the best things to do in Istanbul .

Insider Advice: Kickstart your Istanbul adventure with the Istanbul E-Pass or Istanbul Tourist Pass . These passes provide free access to around 70+ top attractions, tours and essential local services in the city with around 70% savings .

What Can You Expect?

Catching a public ferry, charter boat, or yacht lets you experience breathtaking views of historical monuments like Ottoman palaces, fortifications, museums, and the city’s gorgeous bridges and take in the ambiance along the city’s European and Asian coasts.

Among all, Bosphorus Dinner Cruise is and Bosphorus Sunet Cruise are the most popular ones where you can spend an unforgettable evening out on sea with food, beverages, and entertainment on the Bosphorus Strait.

Tourists that wish to enjoy a unique Istanbul experience are more likely to choose these options.

Top-Rated Bosphorus Cruises

You can feel free to book one of these Bosphorus cruises. They all have excellent traveler ratings. If you change your mind, you can also make free cancellation with a FULL REFUND up to 24 hours in advance.

Best of Istanbul Bosphorus Cruises

1. bosphorus dinner cruise by travelpedia.

This is one of the most popular Bosphorus cruises organized by expert tourism professionals under the brand of Travelpedia Tourism Group . Here you’ll have an unforgettable evening on a luxurious boat. You’ll enjoy an amazing selection of food from Turkish and World cuisine, watching Turkish folk dances, and international dance acts.

Highlights: You’ll experience some of Istanbul’s top architectural wonders, palaces, mosques, and Bosphorus bridges and enjoy a perfect night with belly dancers, whirling dervishes, and many more. You’ll also get quality transportation between your hotel and the port with their air-conditioned and comfortable vehicles.

Meeting point: Kabatas Dentur Avrasya Pier (see location map )

Book your Bosphorus Dinner Cruise

2. Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on A Luxury Yacht

This is a terrific new yacht trip for small groups aboard a luxury yacht at very reasonable costs. You can take it for 2 hours at midday or dusk. This tour is strongly suggested since you will feel amazingly special aboard this privately rented luxury yacht.

Tour Booking Advice

Cruise up and down the Bosphorus, passing epic palaces and historical sites, and get a closer look at famous landmarks like Dolmabahce Palace, Ortakoy Mosque, Bosphorus Bridge, and the Maiden Tower, a certified and competent guide will share with you the tales and findings that accompany the many sites you pass, enjoy an intimate trip because group sizes are limited to 15 people.

Glasses of Wine, Fruits, Snacks, Unlimited Coffee, Tea, Soft Drinks, English Speaking Local Expert Guide, and Free Wi-Fi on the Yacht are among the benefits you enjoy.

Book Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht by Viator

Book Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht by GetYourGuide

3. Bosphorus Dinner / Lunch Cruise – Private & Customizable

2,5 hours bosphorus cruise on a 25 meters luxury yacht.

This is one of the best private Bosphorus cruises made on a luxury yacht. You can experience and enjoy the beauties of Istanbul on a private luxurious yacht while having your dinner/lunch served by a professional crew. Also have a chance for sightseeing and/or swimming and relaxing while peacefully enjoying your day at the luxury yacht. You are also able to customize this tour according to your needs.

Includes: Dinner, All Fees and Taxes, Restroom on board, Snacks, Bottled water, Soda/Pop, Alcoholic Beverages

Free cancellation with a FULL REFUND up to 24 hours in advance

Book Bosphorus Dinner / Lunch Cruise – Private & Customizable

4. All Inclusive Bosphorus Dinner Cruise w/ Turkish Night Show

This is a one-of-a-kind Istanbul Bosphorus cruise with dinner on your luxury motor yacht. Ideal for a romantic meal for two and a special event for families and small groups of friends. You’ll get 4-hour dinner cruise , admire spectacular views of the city’s beautifully illuminated palaces, mosques and Bosphorus bridges, and enjoy a delicious 3-course dinner with select drinks.

You’ll also enjoy the entertainment from belly dancers, whirling dervishes and other artistes, along with hotel pickup and drop-off. It has badge of excellence on Viator.

You will enjoy amazing nighttime views of Istanbul and the landmarks along the river, a wonderful three-course dinner, complimentary local cocktails, and a diversified program of traditional entertainment on board.

Book All Inclusive Bosphorus Dinner Cruise w/ Turkish Night Show

5. Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with entertainment

One of the most favored among tourists is the Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with entertainment. Tourists that wish to enjoy a unique Istanbul experience are more likely to choose this option. Traditional belly dancing, a henna ceremony, a Romany dance, folk dancing, a live DJ, and other entertainment will keep you engaged. At the same time, you will cruise around the Bosphorus and eat your food.

This is a one-of-a-kind experience that appeals to both the sight and the appetite. The feast of delights begins with a range of excellent appetizers, followed by the main meal with three alternatives. The grand finale will feature the world-renowned mixed Turkish desserts and seasonal fruits.

You can pick one of the best ones below

6. Bosphorus Cruise on Yacht with Stopover on Asian Side

Set sail on an extraordinary 2.5-hour Bosphorus Cruise aboard a luxurious yacht, available both in the morning and afternoon. This excursion is the epitome of Bosphorus exploration, complete with a captivating stopover on the Asian side of the city to discover the charming neighborhood of Kanlica.

With over 115 reviews boasting a stellar 5/5-star rating on Viator, you can trust that this is the best way to discover the Bosphorus.

Highlights:

• Glide along the mesmerizing Bosphorus, where Europe meets Asia, on the esteemed Sunset Bosphorus yacht.
• Pause for a delightful break in Kanlıca, savoring the flavors of Turkish coffee and indulging in traditional Turkish snacks, all while immersed in the charm of Asian Istanbul.
• Stay effortlessly connected with onboard Wi-Fi, ensuring you remain in touch without incurring roaming charges.
• A range of time slots allows you to plan your day precisely as you wish, maximizing your exploration of this captivating city.

Departure: Kabatas pier (see location map )

Book Bosphorus Yacht Cruise on Yacht with Stopover on Asian Side

7. Boat Cruise of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn

This boat tour is highly recommended for tourists with limited time in Istanbul. Get a true charm of the city while capturing the most incredible pictures along the way.

This is a peaceful and enjoyable way to explore the key Asian and European sights. The boat sails by Dolmabahce Palace, Ciragan Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Bosphorus Bridge, Rumeli Fortress, and Beylerbeyi Palace.

You may see the Historic Peninsula by boat, including the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Blue Mosque. The English-speaking tour guide will accompany you the entire time.

8. Princes’ Island Boat

This boat tour to Buyukada, one of the most popular Princes’ Islands, will take approximately 75 minutes. While on the Bosphorus, you may observe Istanbul’s breathtaking skyline from the open-air deck, drink beverages from the kiosk, or listen to tales about the Bosphorus using the audio guide app installed on your phone.

Covers a round-trip ticket to Princes’ Islands, Fast track boat admission from the online ticket window, and Bosphorus audio tour app for IOS and Android in ten languages: English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian, Spanish, Turkish, Arabic, and Chinese

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• Sunset Cruise Istanbul  

Scenic Sunset Cruise on Istanbul Strait between two continents, Europe and Asia

Matchless views of the most famous coastal areas and the splendid skyline of Istanbul

Stunning sunsets, coastal palaces, mansions and mosques, and perfect photo opportunities

Nipping your complimentary drink and tasting yummy canapés on board an elegant yacht

The great way to unwind after a busy day, magnificent colours of an evening sky above the city skyline

Guided Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxurious Yacht on Bosphorus

Witness the magic of Istanbul with a 2.5 hours guided sunset cruise along the stunning Bosphorus! Aboard the glass-covered luxury yacht, enjoy Istanbul’s key attractions at dusk, including the Rumeli Fortress, Bosphorus Bridge, Dolmabahce Palace, Ortakoy Mosque, Maiden’s Tower, and much more…

Feast tasty classic Turkish drinks, fresh fruits, and snacks& canapés as you cruise the Bosphorus and delight in the magic of Istanbul’s urban coastline as night falls. Also, take advantage of our free hotel transfer services (pick up&drop off) while participating in this delightful sunset cruise.

Additional Info for Sunset Cruise Istanbul on Luxury Yacht

• You can enhance your special occasion by adding champagne, birthday cake, and other extras that you wish.
• Cruise timetables may change daily depending on weather conditions.
• The cruise program is due to availability.
• We have a vast fleet of luxury yachts, and yacht size can depending on the size of the tour group.

Start Point:

Included services.

• Hotel transfer services (Pick up and drop off) from central hotels
• Complimentary tea, coffee, soft drinks, fresh fruits, Delicious Snacks and tasting yummy canapés served on board.
• That insightful cruise is guided by a talented and experienced host.
• Scheduled service for maximum comfort
• Experience Istanbul’s iconic landmarks from an extraordinary perspective.
• Get an incredible grasp of Turkish Culture.
• Unrivaled and unique photo opportunities during sunset on the Bosphorus State-of-the-art and customized yachts for our valued guests.

Sunset Cruise Istanbul Video

During November to February – Sunset Cruise begins at 16:00 (ends at 18.30)

During March to April and September to October – Sunset Cruise begins at 17:00 (ends at 19.30)

During May to August – Sunset Cruise begins at 18.30 (ends at 21.00)

The most stunning view on the planet at dusk, Bosphorus Sunset Cruise

Take a relaxing evening outside, admiring the beautiful evening lights of Istanbul’s celebrated bridges, towers, and landmarks. Narrated by an informative and entertaining guide, this evening tour aboard a luxury yacht is a memorable experience.

Sail down the Istanbul Strait passing Dolmabahce Palace, fascinating Bosphorus Bridges, and fine designed seaside villas along both sides of the Bosphorus, before rounding the gorgeous tip of old city and ultimately cruising only a few feet away from the spectacular Maiden’s Tower.

Get your camera ready because you shall be yards away from some of the best selfie chances of your life. And you will not miss a thing as our award-winning tour guides narrate the story of Istanbul City as you sit back and relax in the comfort of one of our gracious luxurious yachts.

Live Guided Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise with Luxury Yacht

No matter how long you have been in Istanbul, the city’s skyline shall never disappoint you. Imagine that: cruising on the Bosphorus, sipping a drink, and taking in the matchless sunset views of the unique Istanbul views from the water. By the way, take Instagram worthy photos and enjoy delightful tunes in the background. This is the most stunning way to unwind at the end of the day of sightseeing in Istanbul! With 2 decks on our luxury yacht, you will enjoy complimentary soft drinks and snacks, and most importantly, designated seating on our panoramic upper deck. Do not miss out on the opportunity to get the best Istanbul Sunset Cruise.

You Are Invited To Sunset Cruise Istanbul Tours

• Istanbul Attractions
• Top Sights To See
• Topkapi Palace Tickets
• Hagia Sophia Tickets
• Basilica Cistern Tickets
• Dolmabahçe Palace Tickets
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• Istanbul Airport transfers
• Pierre Loti Hill Tickets
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• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Sightseeing Cruises
• Dinner Cruises
• Things to do
• Festivals and Events

Bosphorus yacht tours

Select Your Experience

Bosphorus Luxury Yacht Day Cruise with Snacks & Turkish Coffee

• You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Sail the Bosphorus in style on a 2.5-hour luxury yacht cruise, exploring Istanbul's stunning sights.
• Enjoy a small-group experience with a professional tour guide, ensuring a personalized and informative journey.
• Experience a stopover in Kanlica on the Asian side, and treat yourself to its famous local yogurt.
• Indulge in tasty snacks, fruits, Turkish coffee, and more as you admire iconic landmarks like Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, and Leander Tower from aboard.
• 2.5-hour cruise on a luxury yacht
• Professional tour guide
• Savory pastry
• Turkish coffee served with Turkish delight
• Turkish tea
• Board your cruise at Kabataş (Ş.Hatları) .
• Address: Kabataş (Ş.Hatları), Türkiye.
• Get Directions to the Boarding Point
• Tip: Opt for the morning cruise to start your day with stunning views and avoid the afternoon heat.
• This experience is not wheelchair accessible.

2-Hour Bosphorus Luxury Private Yacht Rental in Istanbul

• Experience luxury with a 2-hour private yacht rental with up to 10 people, and cruise along the Bosphorus strait in Istanbul.
• Enhance your experience by adding round-trip hotel transfers in a Mercedes Vito or a delectable onboard meal.
• Enjoy complimentary soft drinks and snacks as you sail past the picturesque Ortakoy Mosque and the cross-continental Bosphorus Bridge. Upgrade to include alcoholic drinks.
• Sit back and relax in the seating lounge or put on your sunscreen for some sunbathing on the open deck.
• Come across the stunning architecture of Dolmabahce Palace, reflecting the opulence of the Ottoman Empire and the 15th-century Rumeli Fortress featuring imposing stone walls, towers, and battlements.
• 2-hour private luxury yacht rental for up to 10 people
• Round-trip hotel transfers in a luxury vehicle (optional)
• Complimentary drinks & snacks
• Breakfast, lunch, or dinner (optional)
• Alcoholic beverages (optional)
• Tip: Time your cruise to coincide with the sunset to watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting warm hues across the Bosphorus.
• Complimentary drinks & snacks include soft drinks, tea, coffee, cookies, chips, nuts, and fruits.
• Facilities: Wi-Fi, Pram/stroller Accessibility.
• Pets and guide dogs are allowed on board.
• Bring along your sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat.
• If the main yacht is busy, you will be offered another yacht of the same quality.

Bosphorus Luxury Yacht Daytime or Sunset Cruise

• Sail over the waters of the Bosphorus Strait and brace yourself for some mesmerizing sights you’ll savor.
• Wonder at the views of waterfront palaces, mansions, and mosques, other than Istanbul’s stunning skyline.
• An expert tour guide will offer live commentary along the way, as you gaze at the opulent Dolmabahce Palace.
• Nibble on snacks, cookies, baklava, and fresh seasonal fruits, and sip on a beverage of your choice.
• 2-hr Bosphorus daytime cruise
• Live commentary
• Soft drinks, bottled water, tea & coffee
• 2-hr Bosphorus sunset cruise (optional)
• Tip: The best period for a Bosphorus Cruise typically falls between April and September, varying based on your preferred type of cruise experience.

Bosphorus & Golden Horn Sunset Yacht Cruise with English-Speaking Guide

• Witness Istanbul at sunset on this guided cruise, offering a unique perspective of historic landmarks and a taste of local flavors.
• An expert English-speaking guide will give you more information on the sights you see. Don’t forget to ask about the tale of the Maiden’s Tower!
• A great photo op awaits as the sun sets on the Bosphorus Bridge, an architectural marvel that connects Europe and Asia.
• The imprints left by the Roman, Ottoman, and Byzantine empires can be seen as you pass by Dolmabahçe, Ortaköy Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.
• The views are further enriched by a selection of snacks, fruits, Turkish coffee/tea, and lemonade provided on board.
• 2-hour Bosphorus sunset cruise
• English-speaking guide
• Snacks and fruits
• Tea, Turkish coffee, lemonade, water
• Alcoholic drinks
• Tip: After the cruise, explore the vibrant Karaköy area, known for its trendy cafes and art galleries.
• This cruise is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Luxury meets adventure on Istanbul’s iconic waters with Bosphorus Yacht Tours. Embark on a journey like no other as you sail through the legendary Bosphorus Strait. Indulge in panoramic views of historic landmarks, enjoy refreshments onboard, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Istanbul. Whether it’s a daytime excursion, a romantic sunset cruise, or a private rental, there’s something for everyone to experience and cherish. Get ready to set sail and create unforgettable memories on the Bosphorus! Read on to learn more about Bosphorus yacht tours.

Navigate your Bosphorus yacht tour guide

Why go on a bosphorus yacht tour.

• Things to know before booking your Bosphorus yacht tour tickets

Your Bosphorus yacht tour options

Top sights to see on your bosphorus yacht tour, plan your bosphorus yacht tour experience, other types of bosphorus cruises.

• Frequently asked questions about Bosphorus yacht tour tickets

Breathtaking views

Experience unparalleled panoramic vistas of Istanbul’s skyline and iconic landmarks from the comfort of a luxurious yacht.

Cultural immersion

Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Istanbul as you sail past historic sites and architectural marvels.

Romantic atmosphere

Perfect for couples, Bosphorus yacht tours offer a romantic ambience, complete with mesmerizing sunset views over the Bosphorus Strait.

Unforgettable memories

Create lasting memories with friends and loved ones aboard a Bosphorus yacht tour, capturing Instagram-worthy moments at every turn.

Exclusive experience

Enjoy the exclusivity and sophistication of a private yacht charter, tailored to your preferences for a truly personalized adventure.

Things to know before booking your Bosphorus yacht tour tickets 

• Personalize your yacht tour: Keep in mind that you can customize your yacht tour experience by choosing from different types of vessels such as luxury yachts, private charters, or guided tour boats to match your preferences and group size.
• Guided tours for a comprehensive experience: Consider booking a guided Bosphorus yacht tour to enhance your experience with expert commentary on Istanbul’s history and landmarks.
• Yacht tours with children: Most Bosphorus yacht tours are family-friendly. However, certain experiences or cruises may have age restrictions. Check in advance if you are planning to travel with young children.
• Carry identification: Bring a valid photo ID with you, such as a passport, for verification before entry.

• Discover Istanbul’s rich heritage as a confluence of two continents on this luxury yacht cruise. Sail the Bosphorus Strait between Europe and Asia, explore Istanbul’s Kanlica neighbourhood on the Asian side, and indulge in traditional Turkish coffee and snacks.
• Duration: 2.5 hours

• Experience the enchanting beauty of Istanbul and the Bosphorus Strait at sunset while cruising on a luxurious yacht. Delve into history as an expert guide provides live commentary on the sights and landmarks you sail past.

• Enjoy an exclusive experience by renting a private yacht for a 2-hour cruise of the Bosphorus Strait. Indulge in complimentary snacks and beverages, or elevate your experience by customizing your tickets to include a delectable meal or premium transfers to and from your hotel.
• Duration: 2 hours

• Explore the Bosphorus and Golden Horn onboard this sunset yacht cruise. Savour Turkish snacks and beverages while the expert guide accompanying you enriches your experience with historical insights about Istanbul and its historical monuments.
• Duration: 1.5 hours to 3 hours

Bosphorus yacht tours map

Topkapi Palace

Marvel at the grandeur of Topkapi Palace, once the residence of Ottoman sultans, as you cruise along the Bosphorus.

• Bosphorus Luxury Yacht Day Cruise with Snacks & Turkish Coffee: 10:30am, 2pm
• Bosphorus Luxury Yacht Daytime or Sunset Cruise: 4:45pm
• 2-Hour Bosphorus Luxury Private Yacht Rental in Istanbul: 3pm, 5pm
• Bosphorus & Golden Horn Sunset Yacht Cruise with English-Speaking Guide: 4.30pm

High season vs low season

• Spring (April & May) & Autumn (September to November) are perfect for Bosphorus yacht tours, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
• Summer (June to August) offers clear skies but brings high temperatures, crowds, and prices.

Weekends vs weekdays

• Weekends see larger crowds. For a relaxed experience, take your yacht tour on a weekday.

Best time of the day

• Daytime: A daytime Bosphorus yacht tour offers excellent opportunities to photograph Istanbul's iconic landmarks.
• Evening: Painted in the colours of the sunset, the city and its skyline form a stunning visual.

Boarding point: Kabataş (Ş.Hatları)

• By tram: Take tram T1 to Kabataş Tramvay istasyonu tram station.
• By bus: Take bus lines 22, 22B, or 26. The closest bus stop is Kabataş (Ş.Hatları).

Boarding point: Bosphorus Yachts, Beşiktaş

• By bus: Take bus lines 22, 22RE, 29D, 40, or 40T to Boğaziçi Üniversitesi bus stop.
• By metro (underground funicular): Take the F4 line of the metro’s underground funicular route to Aşıyan inclined railway station.

Boarding point: Dentur Avrasya Kabataş

• By bus: Take bus 22, 22B, 26, 26A, 26B, 27E, 27SE, 28, 28T, 29C, 29D, 30D, 40T, or others to Kabataş bus stop.
• By metro (underground funicular): Take the F1 line of the metro’s underground funicular route to Kabataş inclined railway station.

• Complimentary snacks and beverages onboard.
• Traditional Turkish coffee is served during the cruise.
• Expert commentary on board to enrich your experience.
• Access to onboard amenities such as restrooms and seating areas.
• A luxury yacht exclusively for your tour.
• Refreshing drinks are served onboard, including soft drinks and alcoholic beverages.
• Personalized service from onboard staff.
• Exclusive use of the yacht for a private and intimate experience.
• Customizable itinerary according to your preferences and interests.
• Professional crew members onboard to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
• Opportunity to bring your own food and drinks or request catering services.
• English-speaking guide providing insightful commentary on the sights and history of Istanbul.
• Complimentary refreshments are served onboard.

• Comfortable seating: Plush seating arrangements ensure a cozy and relaxing experience for all passengers.
• Onboard restrooms: Well-maintained restrooms are available for the convenience of guests throughout the cruise.
• Professional crew: Experienced crew members onboard to assist guests and ensure their safety and comfort at all times.
• Safety equipment: Comprehensive safety equipment including life jackets and emergency protocols in place for peace of mind.

• Dress for variable weather: Wear layers or carry a light jacket to accommodate changing weather conditions. We also recommend carrying sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Arrive early: Arrive about 15 minutes ahead of the start of the cruise to ensure a smooth boarding process and maximize your time on the yacht.
• Camera ready: Bring a camera or smartphone to capture stunning views and memorable moments during the cruise.
• Stay hydrated: Remember to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, by bringing along a water bottle.
• Respectful behavior: Maintain respectful behaviour onboard and follow crew instructions for a pleasant experience for all.
• Plan ahead: Research the route and attractions beforehand to fully appreciate the sights and landmarks along the way.

Bosphorus boat tours & sightseeing cruises

Enjoy informative sightseeing cruises along the Bosphorus Strait, showcasing iconic landmarks and historic sites.

Bosphorus sunset cruises

Experience the enchanting beauty of Istanbul’s sunset on evening cruises, offering mesmerizing views of the city’s skyline.

Bosphorus dinner cruises

Indulge in a culinary journey with dinner cruises along the Bosphorus, featuring delectable Turkish cuisine and live entertainment.

Frequently asked questions about Bosphorus yacht tours

Bosphorus yacht tours are leisurely cruises along Istanbul’s Bosphorus Strait, offering panoramic views of the city’s iconic landmarks and historical sites.

You can choose between various types of Bosphorus yacht tours including day cruises, sunset voyages, private charters, and guided tours, catering to different preferences and schedules.

You can purchase your Bosphorus yacht tour tickets online.

Bosphorus yacht tour tickets start from €31. Prices vary based on the type of tour and inclusions you choose, ranging from affordable options to more luxurious experiences.

We recommend booking Bosphorus yacht tour tickets online in advance. It gives you the flexibility to plan your cruise on your preferred dates and have a hassle-free experience.

The duration of a Bosphorus yacht tour varies depending on the type of experience chosen. Typically, it ranges from 1.5 hours to 3 hours, but can go up to half a day.

Most Bosphorus yacht tours include onboard refreshments, such as snacks and beverages, along with expert commentary and access to onboard amenities.

Passengers can expect to see famous landmarks like the Bosphorus Bridge, Dolmabahce Palace, Galata Tower, and Maiden's Tower, among others, during the Bosphorus yacht tours.

Yes, most Bosphorus yacht tours operate throughout the year, offering different experiences depending on the season.

Accessibility on Bosphorus yacht tours may vary among providers, but some tours offer wheelchair-friendly facilities.

Yes, children are generally welcome on Bosphorus yacht tours, but age restrictions and safety regulations may apply. Check your ticket for details.

Policies regarding pets on Bosphorus yacht tours vary among operators. However, most yacht tours allow pets and service dogs. Check your ticket for details.

About the Bosphorus Strait

Sights to see on Bosphorus cruises

Princes’ Islands tours

• +90 532 200 7158
• [email protected]

• Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise

Bosphorus Sunset Cruise

• Bosphorus Dinner Cruise by Night
• Bosphorus Lunch Cruise by Private Yacht
• Black Sea Cruise: Anadolu Kavagi
• Black Sea Cruise: Poyrazkoy
• Princes’ Islands Tour – 6 hours
• Princes’ Islands Tour – 8 hours

Fishing Charter

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• Special Occasions
• Book Online

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Convenient Pickup & Dropoff

Opt for convenient pick-up and drop-off from selected piers (free), or directly from your hotel or cruise ship (extra fee).

Take a Bosphorus Cruise by Zoe Yacht – Tour Istanbul in Comfort Daily

Short Bosphorus Cruise

See the best of Istanbul in our short circle Bosphorus cruise by boat ( kısa boğaz turu ), a great alternative for people with little time but still wanting to do a luxury Bosphorus cruise. After breakfast, why not enjoy two hours of bliss – Glide along the shores in comfort aboard a well-maintained motor-yacht to see the top sights each way, including the Bosphorus Bridge, Dolmabahçe Palace & Rumeli Fortress.

More Details →

Full Bosphorus Cruise (& Stop at Anadolu Kavağı )

In this full Bosphorus cruise tour ( uzun boğaz turu ), you’ll do a half-day trip from Istanbul with a stop to visit Anadolu Kavağı , a picturesque village overlooking the mouth of the Black Sea. Hop off on the Asian Side for an hour for a stroll and lunch at one of the little fish restaurants by the shore. Admire views North & South of the full Bosphorus Strait, then get on your boat again to go back to the city.

Start a special evening with cocktails during a Bosphorus cruise by luxury yacht at sunset time ( akşam boğaz turu ). After seeing the best of Istanbul’s tourist attractions from the water, we’ll leave you to your favorite Istanbul restaurant to continue. Combining views by day and night, this offers the best Bosphorus tour experience for a romantic proposal, a special occasion or birthday party.

Bosphorus Cruise by Night with Dinner

Enjoy fine dining, an evening adventure and panoramic views of Istanbul city in this magical Bosphorus cruise by night ( gece boğaz turu yemekli ). Feast on mezes and crudites, or specially selected Turkish food and wine. Experience Istanbul illuminated by night while you relax onboard with friends or family in this beautiful Istanbul Bosphorus tour.

Popular Cruises This Summer

Black Sea Cruises

Princes Islands

Swimming Cruise

Celebrate a Special Occasion during your Bosphorus tour

A boat party is a fun way to celebrate any occasion in Istanbul, so come aboard and enjoy your birthday party, family reunion, marriage proposal, anniversary or wedding on the water.

Enhance your private Bosphorus tour on Zoe Yacht with a range of options (costs extra Euro/TL per person) including meals, drinks, snacks, cakes and flowers or a English-language tour guide available during online reservation.

• Propose Marriage
• Birthday Parties
• Wedding Anniversary
• Weddings in Istanbul
• Bachelor Party
• New Years Eve
• Christmas Dinner
• Corporate Events
• Yacht Rental for 1-300 guests

Corporate Events:

We have a fleet of reliable motor-boats in Istanbul ready to offer you for all occasions and group sizes.

How Many People Are You?

7-300 People

What is a bosphorus cruise.

A Bosphorus cruise is a yacht/boat trip along the 32km long Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul which connects the Black Sea with the Marmara Sea between the two continents of Europe and Asia. It’s an essential part of any trip to Istanbul and the geography and sightseeing is absolutely unique.

Unmissable Sights during a Bosphorus Cruise of Istanbul

Taking a Bosphorus Cruise through the ages

In any Istanbul tour, it’s essential to include a Bosphorus cruise, as the Bosphorus and its shores are by far the most beautiful part of Istanbul, a “garland of waters” bounding and dividing the city and offering incomparable views and places to see including nature, geography, history and sightseeing.

The Bosphorus has been described in many beautiful ways throughout history by poets, travellers, royals and diplomats. Here’s a few of them:

“A garland of waters” – Byzantine historian Procopius (AD 500-565)

“Istanbul is a magical seal, which unites Europe and Asia since the ancient times. Without a doubt, Istanbul is certainly the most beautiful place of the world”. Gerard De Nerval

“Life can’t be all that bad,’ i’d think from time to time. ‘Whatever happens, i can always take a long walk along the Bosphorus.”― Orhan Pamuk, Istanbul: Memories and the City

To understand Istanbul is to understand how its maritime nature and unusual geography has influenced its character and history to shape how it is today. And to cruise Istanbul by boat includes some of the best things to see and do in Istanbul:

Things to See on a Bosphorus Cruise

There are many ways of cruising possible depending on your budget and preferences from the basic Turyol, Dentur and Sehir Hatlari ferries to private yacht tours like Zoe Yacht.

Alighting your boat from any of several docks, a typical Bosphorus cruise will take you on a loop of Istanbul’s most striking monuments through the Bosporus Strait. At over 30 meters long, you can cover almost half of the strait in a short-circle cruise (2 hours), or all of it in a full-circle or long cruise (4-6 hours). Depending on your starting point, you may enter and exit this sightseeing loop at any point and take a cruise past the following touristic places:

In the lower Bosphorus, close to Sultanahmet Old City and the downtown center is Kabataş , a bustling transfer hub for land and sea. Just beyond is the Dolmabahce Mosque and its baroque clocktower, dating from the 1850s and designed by the Balyan Brothers, famous Amenian architects of the period.

This is followed by the Dolmabahce Palace , or “Filled In Garden”, taking its name form its small inlet which was filled in to create this imperial palace and which later replaced Topkapi Palace as the Sultans’ preferred residence. Built in the 19 th century it is one of the most glamorous palaces in the world and has a white marble façade of over 280 meters along the seafront.

Further on is Beşiktaş or “Cradle Stone” a busy town bursting with students and ferry landing port, followed by Ciragan Palace . Built for Sultan Abdul Aziz in 1874, he died here soon after being deposed and the palace housed his successors in a virtual prison for the next thirty years. It later served a brief stint as the place of Turkish Parliament in 1908, until it was burnt down in a fire and restored into one of the most luxury Istanbul hotels.

Passing the next village of Ortakoy, or Middle Village, look out for Ortakoy Mosque , a distinctive mosque in a mix of baroque and other styles jutting out on a promontory at the water’s edge, built by the Balyan brothers in 1854. Little cafes and a street market surround it making for a relaxing half day trip another day.

Marvel at the graceful First Bosphorus Bridge , the fourth largest suspension bridge in the world and built in the early seventies. It is 1,074 m (3,524 ft) long and was completed in 1973. This is one of the locals’ hidden places to make a wedding proposal in Istanbul, with a laser able to project personal messages for boat-goers under the bridge for a surprise. By night or under the moonlight, the bridge is lit in a rainbow of colors with beautiful reflections on the water.

Cruising on to Arnavutköy , this is a pretty Albanian village and one of the quaintest quays along the shore. Its seafront is lined with yalıs (wooden mansions from the Ottoman era), moored with fishing boats of every shape and size and numerous restaurants (including several of the best fish restaurants for seafood dining in Istanbul). Off Arnavutköy is the deepest point of the Bosphorus Strait at 100 meters, at the cape called Akıntı Burnu .

Rounding this cape, you’ll enter the calm waters of Bebek Bay , backed by verdant rolling hills, umbrella pines and cypresses, and home to some of Istanbul’s society and celebrities. Here yachts and mega-yachts abound. Gaze at the attractive Egyptian Embassy building with boats bobbing at the landing stage at the entrance of the village park. Up on the Northern ward hills are the Bosphorus University buildings, reputable as one of the finest institutions of higher learning in Turkey.

The cruise sweeps the bay and heads towards Rumeli Hisari Fortress, dominated by turrets and steep walls to keep out invaders. Situated at the narrowest point with 660 meters of the Bosporus strait, just opposite of the Anadolu Hisarı on the Anatolian side, another Ottoman fortress, which was built between 1393 and 1394. Known as “Boğaz-kesen” or cutthroat, it was not only used as a prison but as the perfect location for Sultan Mehmet to launch his conquest of Istanbul, cutting off the city’s communication beyond.

If you’re on a full-day or long Bosphorus Cruise, then you’ll also continue to Sariyer , a fishing village especially for catches from the Black Sea and Buyuk Lıman , a shallow and tranquil bay with a golden sandy beach surrounded by an acacia groved valley. This makes for an ideal stop in the summer for day trips and swimming tours.

Crossing to the Asiatic shore of the Middle Bosphorus at some point in your boat tour, you’ll glide under the the Fatih Sultan Mehmet (Bosphorus II) Bridge , ever famous in history as the location where King Darius of Persia constructed a bridge of boats from which to launch an attack in 512 BC and cross to the Asian Side. It is 1,090 m (3,576 ft) long, and was completed in 1988 about 5 km (3 mi) north of the first bridge. It forms part of the Trans-European Motorway.

Near the Northern end of the Bosphorus and entrance to the Black Sea, is Anadolu Kavagi village, a traditional fishing village. Perched on the hilltop above it is Yoros Castle , the Genoese ruins of fortifications from the 1780s, offering a superb viewpoint of almost the entire course of the Bosphorus from end to end, Marmara Sea to Black Sea. At 200 meters, this is the second highest hill on the Bosphorus, known today as “Joshua Hill”, or anciently as “Hercules Hill” or the “ Giant’s Grave “, due to a twelve-meter long hollow in the hill, and as in Byron’s poems:

“Tis a grand sight from off the Giant’s Grave To watch the progress of those rolling seas Between the Bosphorus…” (from a poem by G.G.N.Byron)

After a break hop on your Bosphorus boat cruise again and sail by the Bay of Beykoz or “Prince Walnut”, a calm bay and popular for swimming if you’re on a swimming cruise. In the past this was also a favorite location for catching swordfish using a traditional “ Dalyan “, a kind of wooden structure on stilts over the water with one man posted above to lookout for and heard any approaching swordfish into set fishing nets.

Cruise on Southwards to Kanlıca , an un-spoilt village with a square of plane trees, a famous stop for travellers throughout the ages for its local yogurt. En route you’ll see another hilltop landmark, a charming Art-Nouveau style palace with huge tower belonging to the Viceroy of Egypt from 1900, now a restored hotel with handsome gardens.

Around here you may notice an usual building on stilts in the water – Currently under restoration, this was once the beautiful front room of an exquisite yalı , dating from 1698, with elaborate design, including spectacular floral and geometric paneling and motifs.

Next up is the Anadolu Hısarı or Anatolian Fortress , right opposite the Rumeli Fortress. Built in 1390 by Beyazit the Thunderbolt it has a keep and three towers and was known locally as “Güzelce”, or “Pretty One.”

Now lookout for the mouth of the “ Sweet Waters of Asia “, two little streams called the “Göksu” (Sky Stream) and the Küçüksü (Little Stream) separated by a meadow and the Kucuksu Palace.

The seaside Kucuksu Palace was once an imperial residence for the Sultans dating from the 1850s and used as a base for hunting day trips or visiting signatories. Today it’s a museum.

Next to the palace is one of the largest yalıs of the Bosphorus, the Kıbrıslı Mustafa Emin Paşa Yalısı dating from 1760. With mostly one story and a façade over 60 meters long, it is one of the grandest yalıs with massive ball room, marble pool and fountain and its own harem.

Moving on, you’ll cruise by Kandilli , where the most beautiful series of Yalıs on the Bosphorus can be found, such as the Count Ostorog Yalı of 1790. Watch out for these and the pretty village of Çengelköy , its square surrounded by plane trees with a baroque fountain.

Continuing on our cruise, you’ll approach the 1st Bosphorus Bridge again. Near its base is the village of Beylerbeyi and Beylerbeyi Mosque , a baroque style mosque from the 1770s, followed by Beylerbeyi Palace itself, dating from the later 1800’s and built by the Balyan brothers. This was a sumptuous lodge to house visiting Royals, including the Shah of Persia and Emperors & Empresses from Europe.

Next look out for an attractive yalı that is at the pretty village of Kuzcuncuk , followed by the modern town and bustling ferry port at Uskudar . Just beyond here you’ll see a small man-made island in the sea, known as Maiden’s Tower , Leander’s Tower or Kız Kulesi, a major photo backdrop of the city and one of the best spots to see the sunset over Istanbul by boat.

This completes your sightseeing of the major landmarks and historical monuments during your scenic Bosphorus cruise.

Information, Facts & Figures about the Bosphorus

Some of the Bosphorus Strait facts include:

The world’s narrowest strait connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara (which contains the Princes Islands and is connected by the Dardanelles to the Aegean Sea, and thereby to the Mediterranean Sea).

The strait is 31 km (17 nautical miles) long, with a width of 3,329 m (1.798 nautical miles).

Its maximum width is 3,420 m (1.85 nautical miles) between Umuryeri and Büyükdere Limanı.

The depth of the Bosphorus varies from 36 to 124 m (118 to 407 ft). The deepest location is between Kandilli and Bebek with 110 m (360 ft).

It is called the Bosphorus Strait rather than the Bosphorus River, as rivers don’t usually connect two seas or divide two continents.

Have You Seen These Bosphorus Highlights?

The Bosphorus Strait is a 32 km long strait winding between two continents, the European & Asian sides of Istanbul. Due to its unique geopraphy and history it offers unparalleled sightseeing from the water, for example:

• 4 palaces – Ciragan, Beylerbeyi, Kucuksu Kasri and Dolmabahce Palace
• 2 bridges – the Fatih Sultan Mehmet & Bosphorus Bridge
• 2 fortresses – Anadolu & Rumeli Fortress
• 50+ yalis (elaborate Ottoman mansions and pavilions by the waterside)
• 1 royal hill – Seraglio Point with Topkapi Palace, Haghia Sophia & Blue Mosque
• 2 islands – Maiden’s Tower & Suada Island
• 2 seas – the Marmara Sea and Black Sea

Information guide to taking a Bosphorus Cruise in Istanbul, including price, boat schedules and tour timetables.

Welcome aboard Zoe Yacht

Enjoy Unique Views, Comfort and a Relaxing Environment on board our boat in Istanbul, Turkey

Welcome to Zoe Yacht Bosphorus Cruises in Istanbul, Turkey. We’re an award-winning locally owned, crewed and managed Turkish flybridge motor-yacht, 17-meters/55-feet long, ready to take you out on a deluxe harbor tour of Istanbul, the Bosphorus Strait, Golden Horn, Princes’ Islands, Marmara or Black Sea.

Our private cruises sail every day and night, at regular departure times in the morning, afternoon and evening, through all seasons be it winter or summer.

Taking up to 6 guests with ease, our spacious tour boat is perfect for couples, families and small groups including tourists, visitors, cruiseship passengers and local residents or companies.

A private boat tour offers you a higher level of privacy, flexibility and luxury as well as the possibility to skip the lines, customize your Bosphorus cruise schedule, explore parts of the Bosphorus Strait not possible by bus or other Istanbul tours, hop on hop off at different stops, have a party with your friends, enjoy a special day out with your family or stop in a romantic spot with your loved one along the way.

What Bosphorus tour to take? We include a choice of short, long, half day or full day private Bosphorus tours and day trips from central Istanbul: Take a sightseeing tour for a two continents tour of Asia and Europe, a moonlight dinner cruise on the Bosphorus , a romantic sunset tour or an airport transfer to meet your flights. You can also rent our boat from a few hours long to the whole day for a custom boat trip to the Princes’ Islands or Black Sea for swimming, fishing and sunbathing.

Food and drink lovers can savor breakfast, lunch or dinner over a skyline of stunning sights such as Rumeli Hısarı , the Blue Mosque , Maiden’s Tower and Ottoman mansions. Our Turkish cuisine and menus are provided by one of Istanbul’s reputable fish restaurants.

We’ll collect you from almost any neighborhood located in central Istanbul’s European-side (when you book direct), including from hotels in Sultanahmet or the Old City , Taksim , Beşiktaş , Ortaköy , Karaköy , Galata Bridge area and Eminönü , from the docks of Kabataş , Kuruçeşme, Beylerbeyi and most tourist areas along the Bosphorus and Golden Horn. View all available hotel pickup areas and docking points here .

On our website you’ll discover water activities and things to do in Istanbul including our tours and boat rides with itineraries, Bosphorus cruise maps, travel guide, costs and prices. Prices and payments are in Euro/TL and can be booked online now instantly, securely and owner-direct.

Why Book our Bosphorus Tour?

• Recommended by major travel sites including Travel + Leisure, BBC Travel, Rough Guides and The Guide Istanbul .
• Five Star Reviews – Winner of TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence yearly
• Award-Winning Company – Winner at the LUX Global Excellence Awards, LTG Luxury Travel Guide Awards, TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards, Travel and Hospitality Awards
• For your Safety , in all our cruises you will have the whole yacht just for you, your own family and friends (plus crew) – nobody else at all!
• Unique views and Comfort in a Relaxing environment
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Make a Reservation:

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Testimonials

I would recommend this experience to anyone looking for an exclusive and impressive way to discover the Bosphorus.

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A truly magical experience … it was certainly the perfect way for friends to celebrate a special occasion. Thank you for all the lovely details, like the flowers and your staff’s helpfulness.

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Luxury Bosphorus Yachts & Cruises: Unforgettable Journeys

• 1 Bosphorus Yachts & Cruises for Unforgettable Istanbul Journeys
• 2 Experience Luxury on the Water
• 3.1 Bosphorus Cruise
• 3.2 Bosphorus Sunset Cruise
• 3.3 Morning Bosphorus Cruise
• 3.4 Afternoon Bosphorus Cruise
• 3.5 Bosphorus Lunch Cruise

Bosphorus Yachts & Cruises for Unforgettable Istanbul Journeys

Discover the ultimate luxury experience on the waters of Istanbul with Bosphorus Yachts and Bosphorus Cruises . Our services offer unparalleled opportunities to explore the stunning beauty of the Bosphorus, the natural strait that elegantly separates Europe and Asia. Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, a corporate event, or a family celebration, our yacht and cruise options provide the perfect setting for any occasion.

With Bosphorus Yachts , you can indulge in a private and personalized experience. Our fleet of luxurious yachts is equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and lavish journey. From the moment you step aboard, you’ll be treated to first-class service, including gourmet catering, professional crew, and customizable itineraries. Whether you want to explore historical landmarks like the Dolmabahçe Palace and Rumeli Fortress or simply relax and enjoy the panoramic views, our yachts offer a unique and unforgettable way to experience Istanbul.

In addition to our yacht services, our Bosphorus Cruises provide an equally captivating way to enjoy the Bosphorus. Our cruises are designed to cater to all types of travelers, offering a variety of packages that highlight the best of Istanbul’s waterfront. From sunset cruises that showcase the city’s skyline bathed in golden light to full-day excursions that explore both the European and Asian shores, our cruises promise an enriching and memorable adventure.

Experience Luxury on the Water

Embark on an unforgettable journey with our exclusive water experiences, designed to offer the ultimate in luxury and comfort. Whether you’re exploring the stunning Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul or cruising along serene coastal waters, our services promise unparalleled elegance and sophistication.

Our fleet of state-of-the-art yachts and cruises is equipped with the finest amenities, ensuring that every moment on board is a delight. From gourmet dining options and personalized service to spacious and stylish interiors, we cater to your every need.

Imagine sipping champagne on the deck as you glide past iconic landmarks, or enjoying a sunset dinner with breathtaking views of the city skyline. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family celebration, or a corporate event, our water experiences provide the perfect setting.

Booking a Bosphorus Yacht or a Bosphorus Cruise is incredibly easy with our 24/7 reservation system. We strive to provide a seamless and hassle-free booking experience, ensuring that your journey on the Bosphorus is perfectly tailored to your needs. Whether you’re looking for a private yacht charter or a group cruise, our team is dedicated to making your experience exceptional.

Don’t miss the chance to explore Istanbul from the water. Choose Bosphorus Yachts for a luxurious and personalized adventure, or join one of our Bosphorus Cruises for a delightful and scenic journey. Book today and create lasting memories on the beautiful waters of the Bosphorus.

Let us take care of the details while you relax and soak in the beauty of your surroundings. Experience the epitome of luxury on the water with our exceptional yacht and cruise services.

Our Yachts Exclusive Boat Tours with Sunset Bosphorus & Sunset Istanbul

We are at your service with our special yachts, the Sunset Bosphorus Yacht and the Sunset Istanbul Yacht, among the finest boats on the Bosphorus Yachts. Experience the magic of Istanbul with our exclusive boat tours on the Sunset Bosphorus Yacht and Sunset Istanbul Yacht. Each boat offers a unique and unforgettable experience, showcasing the beauty of the Bosphorus strait. Whether you’re looking to relax with a sunset view or explore the city’s iconic landmarks, our tours cater to every preference.

Bosphorus Cruise

Our Bosphorus Cruise offers a comprehensive journey along the strait, highlighting the contrast between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. Witness historic landmarks such as the Dolmabahçe Palace, the Bosphorus Bridge, and the Rumeli Fortress. This cruise is ideal for those wanting to see the city’s most famous sites from the comfort of one of our top-tier Bosphorus Yachts.

[ View Bosphorus Cruise ]

Bosphorus Sunset Cruise

As the sun sets over the city, the Sunset Bosphorus tour provides a breathtaking view of Istanbul’s skyline. The hues of orange and pink reflecting off the water create a mesmerizing scene. This tour is perfect for a romantic evening or a peaceful end to your day aboard one of our luxurious Bosphorus Yachts.

[ View Bosphorus Sunset Cruise ]

Morning Bosphorus Cruise

Start your day with the Morning Bosphorus Cruise, where you can enjoy the serene morning light and a fresh sea breeze. This tour provides a peaceful atmosphere as you glide past Istanbul’s waking neighborhoods and historical sites. It’s a perfect way to begin your exploration of the city with our elegant Bosphorus Yachts.

Afternoon Bosphorus Cruise

The Afternoon Bosphorus Cruise is perfect for those looking to experience Istanbul’s vibrant daytime energy. Enjoy the lively scenes along the shores, including bustling markets and cafes. This tour allows you to see the city in full swing, with the afternoon sun illuminating its beauty from the decks of our premium Bosphorus Yachts.

Bosphorus Lunch Cruise

Indulge in a delightful meal with our Lunch Bosphorus Cruise. This tour combines a relaxing journey along the Bosphorus with a delicious lunch, featuring traditional Turkish cuisine. It’s an excellent option for those wanting to savor both the sights and flavors of Istanbul aboard our luxurious Bosphorus Yachts.

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Istanbul Sunset Cruise on the Bosphorus

Bosphorus Sunset Cruise with Live Guide on Luxury Yacht.

Come aboard an elegant luxury yacht for a beautiful cruise along the Bosphorus Strait where you can enjoy sightseeing at the most beautiful time of day-sunset in Istanbul. Coast along as you spot out Ortakoy, Bebek, Rumeli Fortress, Maiden's Tower and Bosphorus Bridges, all with a drink of choice in your hand.

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Istanbul Clues

Istanbul Tour Guide

Bosphorus Cruise Price, Schedule, Map (Updated 2024)

13 May 2024 by Serhat Engül

Bosphorus cruise is one of the most entertaining activities to do in Istanbul. While touring the Bosphorus, you can realize how Istanbul acts as a bridge between Asia and Europe. Because this hybrid culture was embodied in the structures on the Bosphorus coast.

During the Bosphorus cruise, you will see the historical palaces and mosques of Istanbul as well as the most expensive mansions. Reflecting both the historical and modern face of the city, the shores of the Bosphorus promise a lot for those who love to take pictures.

Table of Contents

Best Bosphorus Cruise in Istanbul

In order to find the best Bosphorus cruise in Istanbul , you need to review the Bosphorus tours organized by Sehir Hatlari, Turyol and Dentur companies. The prices of these Bosphorus cruises are almost the same as each other. However, since each of them has different routes and times, you need to find the one that suits you best.

For example, the Sehir Hatlari ferries have a large deck, wide seats and a cafe inside. However, they only operate once or twice a day. For this reason, if you are going to combine your Bosphorus cruise with another activity, it may not be the appropriate option for you.

On the other hand, Turyol Bosphorus cruise boats are very compatible with flexible travel plans as they make tours every hour from 10:00 in the morning. Although these boats are smaller than the previous option, they still have a cafe inside.

The last option, the Dentur Bosphorus cruise , is a great option for those staying close to Taksim Square. Because Dentur’s boats depart from Kabatas. Kabatas is the last stop of Tram T1 arriving here from Istanbul Old City. The station is located right next to the Dolmabahce Palace .

If you want to make a Sunset cruise with a private yacht in Istanbul, you can make a reservation from this link . Or if you are looking for Dinner cruise options with dance shows, you can view them from this link .

Now, let’s examine each Bosphorus cruise under its own heading in the rest of the article. Thus, you can see the pros and cons of each and decide on the most suitable Bosphorus tour for you.

1. Sehir Hatlari Ferries

Sehir Hatlari ferries depart from Eminonu, the transportation hub of Istanbul Old City. Sehir Hatlari has 6-hour long and 2-hour short Bosphorus cruise options. While the 6-hour classic tour continues throughout the year, the 2-hour tour is organized only in summer.

Sehir Hatlari Long Bosphorus Cruise

Sehir Hatlari long Bosphorus cruise starts at 10:30, regardless of summer or winter, and lasts for 6 hours. The route of Sehir Hatlari ferries is longer than other Bosphorus tours. The tour starts from Historical Peninsula and continues until Anadolu Kavagi , which is the closest point on the Asian side to the Black Sea.

After leaving Eminonu, the ferry takes a 1.5-hour cruise on the Bosphorus and takes a 3-hour break after arriving at Anadolu Kavagi. (Between 12:00 and 15:00) This is a cozy town away from the crowds of Istanbul.

You can climb the Yoros Castle built by the Genoese and take beautiful pictures of the Bosphorus. The northern part of the Bosphorus is the only passage connecting the Black Sea to the open seas.

After visiting the castle, you can take a walk on the beach and enjoy the local architecture. It is also possible to have a nice lunch break at the fish restaurants by the sea.

The Sehir Hatlari ferry starts its return journey at 15:00 pm in the afternoon. The ferry follows the same route and returns to its starting point, the Old City, within 1.5 hours.

Sehir Hatlari Short Bosphorus Cruise

Sehir Hatlari has an alternative Bosphorus tour that is only held during the summer months. Sehir Hatlari short Bosphorus cruise is an activity that takes 2 hours. This excursion starts around 14:40 and returns after a 2-hour nonstop tour.

As an Istanbulite, I like the 2-hour tour of Sehir Hatlari the most. Because it covers more places compared to the 1.5 hour tours of Turyol and Dentur. Although this may seem insignificant at first glance, it allows you to see the northern shores of the Bosphorus.

I like to travel on Sehir Hatlari’s wide-deck and comfortable ferries with a decent cafe service. Also, since many Bosphorus cruises do not include the mansions in Yenikoy , the most beautiful houses on the Bosphorus cannot be seen.

The short 2-hour Bosphorus cruise can be a little difficult to fit into your travel plans, as it only takes place during the summer months and starts in the late afternoon. But if you have the time, I think this is the best.

Sehir Hatlari Bosphorus Cruise Prices 2024

Sehir Hatlari long Bosphorus Cruise price is 120 Turkish Lira. On the other hand, the ticket price of the short Bosphorus tour is 65 TL. This post was last updated on May 13, 2024. I suggest you to check the prices once again on the official website of the company .

2. Turyol Bosphorus Cruise Boats

Turyol Bosphorus cruise boats organize tours every hour starting from 10:00 in the morning. In this sense, the most practical trips are made by Turyol, located in Eminonu.

Turyol pier is located only a five-minute walk from the Spice Bazaar , the symbol of Eminonu. Turyol ticket office is right next to the Galata Bridge , adjacent to nostalgic boats selling fish sandwiches.

Turyol boats set off from Eminonu and make a 1.5-hour trip. Leaving the Old City, the ship first crosses to the Asian Side and picks up passengers from Uskudar, and then returns to the European Side and starts the cruise.

The boat sails north along the European shores of the Bosphorus and turns from the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge in the middle of the Bosphorus. Following the Asian shores on the way back, the boat gives you the chance to see the sea shores of both sides.

The best thing about Turyol tour is that it is organized every hour and makes it easy to make itinerary. Even if you’re late due to a queue at a museum, crowds at a market, or traffic, you’ll catch the next boat.

Turyol Bosphorus Cruise Price 2024

Turyol Bosphorus Cruise price is 150 Turkish Lira. This article was updated on May 13, 2024. Before joining the tour, I recommend that you check the ticket price a second time on the official website of the Turyol . When you open the page, you will be asked to choose a destination, if you choose Eminonu Port, it will be the original trip starting from the Old City.

3. Dentur Bosphorus Cruise Boats

Dentur Bosphorus Cruise is the third option. The most beautiful part of Dentur is that it is very close to Kabatas. For visitors staying in Taksim Square, transportation is very easy. From Taksim Square you can come to Kabatas via Funicular F1 line and easily reach Dentur boats.

Dentur pier is very close to Dolmabahce Palace, so you can visit the palace first. Dentur’s biggest difference from Turyol is that it departs a little further. Since the tour starts from Kabatas and not from Eminonu, it goes further than Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge and returns from Emirgan (beautiful neighborhood up the Bosphorus nearby Sabanci Museum )  The journey time is almost the same with Turyol.

Another feature of Dentur boats is that it stops in the Ottoman palaces on the shores of the Bosphorus. The boat stops at Emirgan on the European side and Kucuksu Pavillion (hunting palace of the Sultans) and Beylerbeyi Palace on the Asian side. If you want to visit these places, you can get off the boat and catch the next boat and return to the starting point of Kabatas.

Dentur Bosphorus Cruise Price 2024

Dentur Bosphorus Cruise price is 150 Turkish Lira for a 1 hour and 15 minute tour. These prices were last updated on May 13, 2024. You can check it once again at the official address of the company .

Dentur is the best Bosphorus tour in Istanbul for those who want to visit the palaces on the Asian side of Istanbul. Visits to Kucuksu Pavillion and Beylerbeyi Palace are both a cultural experience and the opportunity to eat and drink by the Bosphorus. The cafes of both museums have Bosphorus views and the food prices are reasonable.

4. Bosphorus Sunset Cruise

Bosphorus Sunset Cruise allows you to take magnificent photos in Istanbul. You can enjoy the most romantic moments of the Bosphorus on the tour that starts when the sun sets.

If you want to join a sunset cruise tour on the Bosphorus with a luxury yacht, you can make a reservation from this link . This journey might be convenient for a small family or a couple.

Bosphorus Sunset Cruise Price 2024

Bosphorus Sunset Cruise price is around 35 USD per person as of 2024. Sunset tours are relatively expensive as they are limited to a small number of people and are made with private yachts. You can check the prices and make a reservation from the link above.

5. Bosphorus Dinner Cruise

Bosphorus dinner cruise in Istanbul is a really fun activity. During this tour you can watch local dances and belly dancers. The best part of the Bosphorus dinner cruise is that you can see the palaces and other beautiful buildings on the Bosphorus with their colorful lights.

You can spend an unforgettable evening with beautiful music on the boat, local dances to entertain you and romantic scenery. If you want to join the recommended Bosphorus dinner cruise tour, you can make a reservation from this link . The tour is organized under the guarantee of GetYourGuide, an international company.

Bosphorus Dinner Cruise Price 2024

Bosphorus Dinner Cruise price is around 25 USD per person as of 2024. You can book an evening tour with dinner on the Bosphorus from the link I shared above and check the latest price. The tour I recommend is the most popular Bosphorus evening cruise in Istanbul.

Bosphorus Cruise Map for 2024

Bosphorus Cruise Map shows us the locations of Istanbul’s nostalgic ferries and tour boats. These sea transport vehicles allow us to travel between the European and Asian sides as well as take a Bosphorus cruise.

For example, piers 1, 2 and 5 on the map show tour boats making a Bosphorus cruise. Pier 1 belongs to the Turyol Boats . Pier number 2 belongs to Sehir Hatlari Ferries . Pier 5 belongs to Dentur Boats departing from Kabatas.

Pier 3 symbolizes the ferries departing from Eminonu (Old City) to Uskudar and Kadikoy on the Asian side. There are actually two separate piers here, but I thought a single figure would be enough for both.

Pier 6 symbolizes the ferries departing from Besiktas to Kadikoy and Uskudar. Piers 7 and 8 are located in Uskudar and Kadikoy, two touristic districts of the Asian Side. Ferries depart from both to Besiktas and Eminonu.

In summary, a Bosphorus cruise is among the best things to do in Istanbul . You can have this wonderful experience by choosing one of Sehir Hatlari, Turyol or Dentur companies.

You can also join special organizations such as a sunset cruise or an evening cruise with dinner. The photos you take during any activity on the Bosphorus will probably be among your best memories in Istanbul.

I would also recommend the article named Istanbul tourist map to get to know the touristic places of Istanbul. Or you can also review the Istanbul metro map article for public transportation in Istanbul.

About Serhat Engül

Hello explorer of Istanbul! This is Serhat Engul. I am a licensed TOUR GUIDE IN ISTANBUL. I offer PRIVATE HALF DAY TOUR which includes a visit to the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Basilica Cistern and the Spice Bazaar. This is a fantastic option to see some of the ICONIC LANDMARKS in the whole of Istanbul and you’ll receive plenty of background information on each location to enlighten you. You may see the details of this tour on the HOMEPAGE of the blog. I wish you a wonderful trip!

Reader Interactions

31 August 2018 at 19:24

Thanks for all your posts! They have been very useful in planning my trip. Very big help in deciding a lot of things. Complemented very well my Tripadvisor and Lonely Planet research.

31 August 2018 at 19:44

Hello Ryan, thank you very much for your kind words. This is a good motivation for us. I Hope you will have great time in Istanbul.

13 May 2021 at 09:40

We are expected to arrive in Istanbul on 27th May and stay for 8 days. I’m glad to have gone through your blogs which will help me in making our trip enjoyable. Thanks for these very informative blogs. Ciao

13 May 2021 at 12:17

Hi Salahuddin, thank you for the feedback. It makes me very happy to see that these blogs really work for people. I wish you a good holiday in Istanbul.

27 September 2021 at 19:07

I am so glad to find your blog site with so many useful information for my trip next month. A quick question – are the ferries in normal operation now (any impacts from the Covid situation)?

27 September 2021 at 19:52

Hello, thank you for the feedback about the blog. Frankly, I haven’t participated in Bosphorus tours for a long time. However, when I review Turyol’s Bosphorus tour schedules, I see that the operations continue in the same way. The website of the state-run Sehir Hatlari is currently unavailable. But as far as I know it works too.

16 October 2021 at 05:29

Hello Serhat. I am planning to visit Istanbul with my family by end of November. How can we contact you to arrange some tours. Thank you

16 October 2021 at 22:08

Hello Said. You can send me an email from the contact page . It would also be helpful if you noted the exact days of the tours. Best regards, Serhat.

15 February 2022 at 15:39

I must say you have made planning around Turkey way easier. Wonderful description.

Thanks Sofia

15 February 2022 at 21:54

Hi Sofia, thank you. It makes me happy to see such reviews. It’s good to see that the time I spend on blogs is not in vain.

14 May 2022 at 10:54

Hello, this is a very informative website. Thank you for the in depth and extremely useful information. It has really helped me plan my trip.

14 May 2022 at 11:20

Hi Zehan, thank you very much for the feedback. Have a nice trip!

23 June 2022 at 13:27

Hi, hope you are well. Please let me know if there are any sunset cruises on Sehir Hatlari or Dentur.

23 June 2022 at 16:39

Hi Zehan, no, these companies do not organize sunset cruises on the Bosphorus.

20 November 2022 at 18:29

Hi, I wanted to know if any of these three companies have thier own dinner cruise. Or is it just offered by Get Your Guide?

21 November 2022 at 19:08

Hi Shyam, as dinner cruise is a special organization, it is held on ships designed for it. For this reason, the three companies in the top titles do not have dinner tours.

There are many companies in Istanbul that offer Bosphorus cruises with dinner. The most popular among them is the company I recommend.

They offer their services through GetYourGuide. If you want, you can make a reservation via the link I have provided.

19 January 2023 at 01:31

Thank you very much for your detailed explanation of Bosphorus cruises types, I found it very useful for planning my trip.

19 January 2023 at 13:05

Dear Liubov, thank you for your feedback on my article about Bosphorus tours. I am happy to see that the article is useful for those who will visit Istanbul.

5 February 2023 at 22:19

Big Thanks for writing this great guide..

7 February 2023 at 00:11

Dear Ali, thank you for the feedback on the post. I hope you will have a nice trip in Istanbul.

23 August 2023 at 20:02

Hello Serhat, I looked at the website of Sehir Hatlari ferries but I wasn’t able to see the possibility of buying tickets in advance online. Do you know if you can make a reservation for a cruise on a particular day online? Or do you just have to go to the ticket office in person in Istanbul? Many thanks!

25 August 2023 at 21:19

Dear Gary, Sehir Hatlari is a ferry company operating within Istanbul. I am not surprised that their online service is not working because Istanbulites do not reserve tickets for these ferries in advance.

Istanbulkart or one-time tickets are valid for all ferries of Sehir Hatlari that operate on both sides of the Bosphorus. On the other hand, online tickets must be purchased for IDO ferries going from Istanbul to other cities (for example, from Istanbul to Bursa).

My advice to you would be to buy your ticket for the Bosphorus cruise of Sehir Hatlari 30 minutes before the ferry departure from the box office. There is no such thing as running out of tickets for daily Bosphorus tours.

27 February 2024 at 19:30

Hello Serhat: Excellent guide. Re Turyol Ferries Bosphorus tour: Found it difficult to confirm on their website the following : *Hourly schedule in March ? *Just turn up @ the terminal purchase tickets ? *No online purchase facility ?

Regards Mitchell Reid

29 February 2024 at 23:43

Dear Mitchell, yes Turyol’s website is a bit outdated. Since the company’s working principles are very simple, you do not need to check the hours in advance or buy tickets online.

Turyol starts its Bosphorus cruises at 10:00 in the morning and there are boats every hour from then until the evening. I don’t think there will be a problem finding a seat. Tickets can be easily purchased from the box office before each trip.

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Istanbul Travel Guide

Istanbul Clues travel guide is designed to introduce you to the history, museums, restaurants and culture of istanbul.

Private Tour Guide in Istanbul

Author of this blog, Serhat Engul, is a licensed tour guide based in Istanbul.

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The Best Bosphorus Cruise for Your Travel Style in 2024

Looking for the best way to tour Istanbul’s incredible Bosphorus Strait tailored to your own unique travel style?

Lori and I loved our Bosphorus cruise and wanted to make it super straightforward for others thinking about embarking on their own unforgettable journey.

These are the top choices to consider for 2024 —based on a range of reviews from hundreds of travelers, as well as our own personal experience cruising the Bosphorus—plus helpful, first-hand tips you won’t find anywhere else!

This post contains affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, we might receive a commission (at no added cost to you). Thanks for supporting independent, ad-free blogs !

1. Luxury Sunset Cruise

2. bosphorus + black sea cruise, 3. taste of two continents tour, 4. istanbul must-see tour, 5. private luxury yacht cruise, 6. turyol & dentur bosphorus cruises, 7. sehir hatlari cruise, bosphorus tour vs. public ferry, services & rates, where to buy tickets & board, bosphorus cruise tour itinerary, how much does a bosphorus cruise cost, what is the bosphorus cruise famous for, how long is the bosphorus cruise, visiting istanbul, turkey read next.

7 Best Bosphorus Cruise Tours Based on Your Travel Style

From two-hour private luxury and sunset cruises to full day experiences for a range of budgets, Lori and I have included a range of options for every type of travel style and budget.

Our Top Pick for 2024

Add a splash of style and romance to your Bosphorus cruise with this 2.5-hour Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht . Our #1 pick offers an unforgettable sunset tour with onboard guide and complimentary drinks and canapés.

• 2.5-hour cruise on luxury yacht
• Drinks & canapés included
• Small group tour
• Onboard guide
• Tour by Bosphorus Cruise Tours Istanbul
• 5/5 rating (892 reviews) on TripAdvisor
• From US$67 per passenger

Book Online Viator | TripAdvisor

Full Day Comprehensive Cruise

Looking for the ultimate Bosphorus day trip with time spent in the Black Sea as well? This 10-hour Bosphorus Strait AND Black Sea Day Cruise is our top pick for seeing it all!

Includes delicious Mediterranean lunch, onboard guide, and stops at Rumeli Fortress, Ortakoy, Kucuksu Pavilion, Buyuk Mecidiye Cami.

• Full-day 10-hour tour of the Bosphorus Strait and Black Sea
• Lunch included
• Group tour (40 max)
• Tour by IBO Cruise
• 4.5/5.0 rating (79 reviews) on TripAdvisor
• From US$122 per passenger

Best Tour for Foodies

Discover the flavors and delicacies of both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul in this one-of-a-kind 6.5-hour Istanbul Food Tour with Bosphorus Cruise , a perfect day trip for foodies and those looking to venture beyond Istanbul’s most touristed areas.

• 6 to 7-hour tour, crossing the Bosphorus twice by ferry
• Multiple tastings at 9 eateries
• Small group tour (10 max)
• Tour by Yummy Istanbul
• 5/5 rating (1,512 reviews) on TripAdvisor
• From US$125 per traveler

Best City + Bosphorus Combo Tour

Experience the best of Istanbul in this 8.5-hour Istanbul Must-See Tour and Bosphorus Cruise . Join your expert guide on this small group tour to discover Istanbul’s top attractions. Explore Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, and Spice Market before topping it all off with a 90-minute guided tour of the Bosphorus Strait by public ferry.

• 8 to 9-hour city tour with guided public ferry cruise on the Bosphorus
• Small group tour (15 max)
• Tour by Lütfullah FINDIKOĞLU
• 5/5 rating (137 reviews) on TripAdvisor
• From US$75 per traveler

Looking for a Private Tour?  Check out this 7-hour Istanbul Classics Private Tour with Bosphorus Cruise .

Tour the Bosphorus in Style

Cruise the Bosphorus in style with this 2-hour Private Luxury Yacht Cruise on the Bosphorus . This this private luxury yacht tour has room for up to 10 passengers—perfect for families, couples, and groups celebrating a special occasion or travelers who simply want to enjoy their Istanbul experience in luxury and seclusion.

• 2-hour Bosphorus cruise on private luxury yacht
• Private Tour
• Tour by Tour Book Turkey
• 5/5 rating (69 reviews) on TripAdvisor
• From US$406 per group (up to 10)

Best Quick Tours

Turyol and Dentur are two private companies that offer some of the most popular two-hour Bosphorus tours in Istanbul. If you’re not looking for a luxury or DIY option and want more flexibility in your travel plans, this might be the way to go.

Both companies offer regular departures throughout the day and cover the top attractions along the route.

• 2-hour Bosphorus cruises
• Regular departures throughout the morning and afternoon
• Tours by Turyol and Dentur
• From 150 TL (US$5) per passenger

More Info Turyol.com | Denturavrasya.com

Best Budget/Shoestring Tours

There are numerous options for doing a Bosphorus cruise in Istanbul. But if you’re on a shoestring budget or just like to travel in a more independent fashion, the Sehir Hatlari Bosphorus Tour service is worth considering.

Sehir Hatlari offers three Bosphorus Tour services: Long Tour (Full Circle), Short Tour (Short Circle), and Moonlight Tour (seasonal).

Keep reading for our detailed guide on how to take the the Sehir Hatlari Bosphorus Cruise, plus tips and what to expect.

DIY Bosphorus Cruise: All You Need to Know

The Sehir Hatlari ferry line offers a Bosphorus tour at a very reasonable price. But taking the public ferry tour isn’t as straight forward as doing a Bosphorus cruise private tour.

Here, Lori and I tell you exactly how to take the Sehir Hatlari Bosphorus tour and offer first-hand tips for getting the most out of your time on the water.

Sehir Hatlari runs two different types of services: Inner-city/domestic public ferry service mostly geared to commuters and locals getting around the region, and the Bosphorus Long Tour, Short Tour, and Moonlight Tour services aimed at tourists.

Unless you want to compete for space with Istanbul’s millions of commuters (and see very little in the process), you’re far better off taking the Sehir Hatlari service clearly marked as “Bosphorus Tours”.

For those who like to figure out the details themselves, aren’t fussy about seating, and are willing to devote the better part of a day to the experience, we think the Sehir Hatlari Bosphorus Tour can’t be beat for the price.

There are three Bosphorus Tour ferry options:  Long Bosphorus Tour (6 hours) ,  Short Bosphorus Tour (2 hours) , and seasonal Moonlight Tour , which operates during the summer months.

Up until recently the Long Bosphorus Tour was known as the “Full Circle”, and the Short Bosphorus Tour was known as the “Short Circle”. This guide will use the new terminology moving forward.

Current Sehir Hatlari ticket prices as of Jan 2024

Admission is free for children under the age of 6 for all cruises.

To take the Sehir Hatlari Bosphorus Tour service, head to the Galata bridge.

From the Eminonu (Old City) side, don’t cross the bridge, but walk to the right of it and follow the signs for Sehir Hatlari.

The office is adjacent to the Red Hop-on Hop-off Bus ticket office.

We heard that the ticket office opened at 10am. We arrived 30 minutes beforehand and there was already a line (midweek in August).

They opened a bit early and we managed to snag a window seat on the port-side since the ferry hugs the left-hand shore (Europe on the way out, and Asia for most of the return trip).

However, we quickly realized the outside benches at the stern (back)  of the ferry might just be the best seats on the boat on a nice day, which is where we ultimately ended up.

Overall, we were pretty impressed with the amenities offered by a public ferry company for the price. We found the Sehir Hatlari Bosphorus Cruise to be clean and well-organized, certainly for the cost of admission.

Lori and I particularly enjoyed riding along with a mix of people—locals and tourists—which was a fun part of the experience for us.

We also felt that the amount of time (six hours round trip with a few hours stop for lunch) was perfect for us as well, particularly since we had absolutely nothing else planned for today.

🔥 HOT TIP 🔥

Be sure to grab an audio guide at the ticket booth when you buy your tickets.

It adds excellent context to the cruise and tells you a bit about the many highlights along the route.

No matter which Bosphorus cruise you take, the idea is very much the same. The boat leaves Eminonu on the Golden Horn and travels north along the Bosphorus Strait hugging the left bank (Europe side).

At some point depending on which service you’ve chosen, the boat will then cross the Bosphorus, hugging the right bank (Asia side), before making its way back to Eminonu.

We opted for the Full Circle / Long Tour , which takes about six hours round trip including a couple of hours in the middle to enjoy the northernmost stop at Anadolu Kavagi village.

There are a number of good restaurants, shops, and other amenities in Anadolu Kavagi for those who are taking the Long Tour. Our boat had a small snack bar and restrooms, but a lot of passengers brought their own snacks.

Here’s a further breakdown of the Long Tour itinerary so you can get an idea of what to expect.

Most Bosphorus cruises leave Eminonu on the Golden Horn, right in the heart of the city. Leaving the Old City, the tour passes a number of historic sights and points of interest.

As mentioned above, Lori and I rented an audio guide that was available at the ticket booth, which offered information about various points of interest along the way. If you opt for a tour through a private company, you’ll like have a guide to narrate the cruise for you.

Here are just a few of the many highlights you’ll see along the way:

Dolmabahçe Palace (Sultan’s Palace), now a museum.

Ortaköy Mosque , built in 1856.

The First Bosphorus Bridge (15 July Martyrs Bridge) was completed in 1973, and as the name might imply, was the first bridge to connect Europe and Asia.

Rumeli Fortress , built by the Ottomans in 1452.

After about 90 minutes on the water (including a few stops along the way) the tour reaches its farthest stop north: the village of Anadolu Kavagi .

Our tour docked here for a few hours—more than enough time to grab lunch, do a little hike, and poke around the small village.

From the ferry pier, you can hike up to Yoros Kalesi (Yoros Castle) , a small fortification with a commanding view of the Bosphorus and the shores of the Black Sea.

Getting around Anadolu Kavagi and finding the path to Yoros Fort can be a bit confusing. So, we’ve included a map to help you find your way around.

Looking north, we were also able to spot the Third Bosphorus Bridge spanning Europe and Asia, and the Black Sea , beyond.

There are a number of restaurants and cafes near the pier and throughout the village, but we opted for Yoros Cafe near the fort, which came highly recommended and offered a stunning view of our route (not to be confused with Yoros Kale Kafe).

We were not disappointed with the food or the scenery.

The village was interesting enough to take a walkabout, but we were glad we took the extra time to hike up to Yoros Castle and have lunch with a view. We were able to comfortably achieve all of this in the layover time.

On the cruise back to Emononu pier in Istanbul, we hugged the Asia side with a few quick stops to let local passengers on and off.

Bosphorus Cruise FAQs

A ticket to cruise the Bosphorus can cost as little as under US$5 to over US$100 per person depending on the type of tour you opt for. The most basic tours run by the public ferry company, Sehir Hatlari, tend to offer the cheapest rates. But if you want a private luxury tour, or want to fold your cruise into a city tour, the cost will increase significantly.

The Bosphorus Strait is famous for being the natural waterway that separates the continent of Asia from the European continent, and runs right through the vibrant and ancient city of Istanbul. Additionally, there are a number of historic sights and popular modern day attractions along the route that most cruises ply.

Typically, cruise times last anywhere from 2 hours to 10 hours, depending on the number of stops and the length of the journey. Long Tour (Full Circle) cruises make lunch stops at Anadolu Kavagi, with some even spending time in the Black Sea. The Short Tour (Short Circle) cruises do not.

Thanks for reading our guide to the best Bosphorus Cruise tours for 2024!

Did you find this guide helpful? Let us know in the comments below!

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Featured image credit: Ante Samarzija on Unsplash

5 thoughts on “The Best Bosphorus Cruise for Your Travel Style in 2024”

Thank you so much for this information. We will be doing Turkey round about 20th September and the Bosphorus is on our list. We will take advantage of the cheapest cruise.

Hi Carol, We took the public ferry tour in late Feb 2023. The boat is heated indoors with large, upholstered benches. Nothing fancy but quite comfortable. There was even an area with wooden toys for the children.

The windows are large, maybe not the clearest, but we certainly were happy with our views… plus the outdoor areas on the back of the boat were protected from the wind. Highly recommend.

Thanks for this, but I wish you had included a picture of the inside seating. Would it be warm enough in the winter and can you see well outside?

Hi Carol, wish we had a picture of inside seating to share. It was a gorgeous August day when these pics were taken and we felt quite fortunate to snag an outdoor seat. We did pass through the inside a few times and it seemed pretty well-protected from the wind (glass windows, etc.).

Great post guys ! Thank you for all that nice info !

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• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Moscow vs. Istanbul for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

• Which is Cheaper, Moscow or Istanbul? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, Moscow or Istanbul?

• When to Visit Moscow or Istanbul?

Should you visit Moscow or Istanbul?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Moscow and Istanbul. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Where Should I go: Moscow or Istanbul?

Moscow is the capital of Russia and is notable for its important role in history. It's a very sprawling city with many museums and fascinating buildings. Ten percent of Russia's population lives in this capital city and it's a financial and political center for the country. The Moskva River weaves its way through the city and you will find most of the city's sights and attractions on the northern side of the river.

Istanbul is strategically located on the Bosphorus and is split between Europe and Asia. It truly is a city where east meets west. Istanbul is the cultural and financial hub of Turkey, and also the most populous city. The sites are countless and there's something for everybody, whether you're interested in art, music, food, or adventure. You can pass many days exploring both the residential and commercial pockets of this city. Much of the appeal is hidden away along back alleys or within corner shops.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Turkey , and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey .

Which place is cheaper, Istanbul or Moscow?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Moscow Prices Russia Prices Istanbul Prices Turkey Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Moscow $ 65 Istanbul $ 121

The average daily cost (per person) in Moscow is $65, while the average daily cost in Istanbul is $121. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Moscow and Istanbul in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Moscow $ 41 Istanbul $ 46
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Moscow $ 82 Istanbul $ 92

Compare Hotels in Moscow and Istanbul

Looking for a hotel in Moscow or Istanbul? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Moscow

Hotels in Istanbul

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Moscow $ 6.33 Istanbul $ 53

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Moscow

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Moscow are as follows:

• Two Metro Passes $ 1.51

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Moscow

Also for Moscow, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• Private Transfer from Kedungsari to Pekanbaru Airport (PKU): $42
• Private Transfer from Pekanbaru Airport (PKU) to Tengkerang Barat: $42
• Private Transfer from Tengkerang Tengah to Pekanbaru Airport (PKU): $42
• Private Transfer from Pekanbaru Airport (PKU) to Tengkerang Tengah: $42
• Private Transfer from Sidomulyo Barat to Pekanbaru Airport (PKU): $42
• Private Transfer from Pekanbaru Airport (PKU) to Tangkerang Labuai: $42
• Private Transfer from Delima to Pekanbaru Airport (PKU): $44
• Private Transfer from Pekanbaru City to Pekanbaru Airport (PKU): $44
• Private Transfer from Pekanbaru Airport (PKU) to Kota Baru: $44
• Private Transfer from Kampung Dalam to Pekanbaru Airport (PKU): $44
• Private Transfer from Pekanbaru Airport (PKU) to Sukajadi: $44
• Private Transfer from Tanah Datar to Pekanbaru Airport (PKU): $44

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Istanbul

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Istanbul are as follows:

• Ferry $ 0.08
• Local Bus $ 0.09

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Istanbul

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Istanbul:

• İstanbul Vip Airport Transfer : $50
• İstanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport Transfer (SAW) To Istanbul Hotel: $67
• İstanbul Private Airport Transfer: $139
• İstanbul Airports Transfer Services: $56
• İstanbul Airport and Hotel Transfer: $55
• İstanbul Airport Transfer : Your reliable & Stress-Free ride: $57
• Vip Airport Transfer to/from Istanbul City Center: $55
• VIP Transfer from Hotel to Airport in Istanbul: $26
• Try find your better than us! Airport transfer service in Istanbul APT-HTL (IST): $43
• Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in Istanbul APT-HTL (SAW): $52
• Transfer from Hotels to Airports in Istanbul by Private Minivan : $62
• Transfer from Hotels to Airports in Istanbul by Private Luxury Sedan: $134

Is it cheaper to fly into Moscow or Istanbul?

Prices for flights to both Istanbul and Moscow change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Moscow $ 15 Istanbul $ 30

Typical Food Prices in Moscow

For Moscow, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:

• Lunch for Two $ 6.15
• Lunch in the Center Market $ 3.36
• Breakfast for 2 $ 11

Typical Food Prices in Istanbul

Some typical examples of dining costs in Istanbul are as follows:

• Juice $ 0.06
• Turkish Delight $ 0.02
• Dessert $ 0.25
• Pastries $ 0.04

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Istanbul

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Istanbul.

• Dinner Cruise and Entertainment with Private Table: $18
• Turkish Night on the Bosphorus Dinner Cruise: $22
• Bosphorus Dinner Cruise , Unlimited Drinks, & Show: $22
• Bosphorus Catamaran Cruise with Dinner Show: $26
• Dinner Cruise On The Bosphorus with Turkish night show: $26
• Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show: $26
• Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table: $27
• Bosphorus Boat Cruise with Dinner & Entertainment: $28
• Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise: $28
• Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Turkish Dance Shows with Private Table: $30
• Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Unlimited Drinks and Shows: $30
• Luxury Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Shows Private Table & Free Wi-Fi: $31

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Moscow $ 16 Istanbul $ 76

Typical Entertainment Prices in Moscow

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Moscow's activities, tours, and tickets:

• Theater Tickets $ 13
• Kremlin Entry (2) $ 11

Typical Entertainment Prices in Istanbul

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Istanbul are as follows:

• Bosphurus Boat (for 2) $ 0.59
• Yerebatan Cistern for Two $ 0.59
• Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts for Two $ 0.30
• Hagia Sofia entrance $ 0.89

Tours and Activities in Istanbul

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Istanbul are as follows:

• 4 Hours Private Highlights Tour Of Istanbul: $280
• All in One Day Istanbul - Historical Tour of Istanbul with Bosphorus Cruise: $168
• Bosphorus Cruise And Asia Minor Tour: $220
• Full Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour From Hotel or Cruise Ships: $36
• Hagia Sophia Private Tour - Skip the Ticket Line : $120
• Istanbul Customized Daily Tour: $200
• Istanbul Half Day City Tour (Ottoman Relics): $78
• Must - See Istanbul Stops 1: Half Day Morning Tour: $142
• "Ertugrul & Osman Gazi Film Set Tour with Lunch": $138
• 1 Tour: Istanbul Highlights Street Food & Hidden Pearls: $207
• 1 or 2- Day Istanbul Highlights Tour w/ a Professional Guide: $55
• 1,2 or 3 DAY: Private Guided Istanbul Tour from CRUISE SHIP or HOTEL: $75
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Moscow $ 8.13 Istanbul $ 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Istanbul

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Istanbul:

• Famous Istanbul Pub Crawl #1 Nightlife Experience: $27
• Pub and Rooftop Bar Crawl: $28
• Pub Crawl Istanbul / Rooftop Parties & Party Bus: $28
• Party Pub Crawl with Party Bus: $29
• Wine Tasting Experience in Istanbul : $50
• Istanbul Wine Tasting at Home with Local Family: $90
• Istanbul Private Wine Tasting Tour Through 3 City Wineries : $252
• Istanbul Private and Guided, Food and Wine Tasting Tour: $430

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Moscow and Istanbul, we can see that Istanbul is more expensive. And not only is Moscow much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Moscow would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Moscow and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Istanbul would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Istanbul than you might in Moscow.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Moscow Expensive? and Is Istanbul Expensive? .

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 8% larger than the population of Moscow. When comparing the sizes of Moscow and Istanbul, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Moscow or Istanbul?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Moscow or Istanbul in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Moscow as well as Istanbul. Additionally, most visitors come to Istanbul for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Moscow is cooler than Istanbul in the summer. The daily temperature in Moscow averages around 19°C (67°F) in July, and Istanbul fluctuates around 24°C (74°F).

Moscow usually gets more rain in July than Istanbul. Moscow gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Summer Average Temperatures July Moscow 19°C (67°F)   Istanbul   24°C (74°F)

Should I visit Moscow or Istanbul in the Autumn?

Both Istanbul and Moscow are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Moscow is much colder than Istanbul. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Moscow in October average around 6°C (43°F), and Istanbul averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In October, Moscow usually receives less rain than Istanbul. Moscow gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

• Autumn Average Temperatures October Moscow 6°C (43°F)   Istanbul   16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Moscow or Istanbul in the Winter?

Both Istanbul and Moscow during the winter are popular places to visit. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year.

The weather in Moscow can be very cold. In January, Moscow is generally much colder than Istanbul. Daily temperatures in Moscow average around -8°C (17°F), and Istanbul fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Moscow usually gets less rain in January than Istanbul. Moscow gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Winter Average Temperatures January Moscow -8°C (17°F)   Istanbul   6°C (43°F)

Should I visit Moscow or Istanbul in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Moscow and Istanbul. Also, many travelers come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Moscow is much colder than Istanbul in the spring. The daily temperature in Moscow averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Istanbul fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In April, Moscow usually receives less rain than Istanbul. Moscow gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Istanbul receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

• Spring Average Temperatures April Moscow 7°C (45°F)   Istanbul   13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Istanbul and Moscow

Related Articles for Moscow

Related articles for istanbul.

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• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Best of Moscow by high speed train

By shuguley , February 15, 2014 in Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.

Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?

My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

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If you are considering this on the 2015 June Baltic cruise on Voyager; my suggestion is don't. There is so much to do in St. Petersburg and although a train is one of my favorite ways to travel the time would be far better spent in St. P.

Thanks for the advice. Yes, this would be on the Voyager during the 2015 season but not yet sure exactly which cruise.

We did the Moscow excursion "on a different luxury line", but from your brief description it sounds very much like the same trip, so I will operate on that assumption. It is a VERY long day! We left the ship at 5:30 AM and returned at 12:30 AM. The highspeed train trip is comfortable, and while they call it "Business Class" it does not compare well to the equivalent class on say Rail Europe. When we did it in 2011, we did have highspeed both ways, and the trip back seemed much longer as the adrenaline and excitement had worn off!:D

Moscow itself is not that terribly different from any other big city in the world, but this Cold War kid never thought he would ever stand in Red Square, never mind walk the grounds of The Kremlin, or tour The Kremlin Palace, or see (but not visit) Lenin's Tomb, or visit The Armoury. But he did, and he loved every minute of it! Yes, it is a long day, and you barely scratch a scratch on the surface, but it is worth it. There is a tremendous amount to see in St. Petersburg, but every Baltic cruise goes to St. Petersburg, so you can go back if you choose to. Not every cruiseline offers you the chance to see Moscow.

I have not personally done this tour, but our last time in St Petersburg, the private guide that we hired for a day was leading the regent tour to Moscow on the high speed train the next day. He said it was way better than the previous alternative, which was flying to Moscow and back. He said that you actually got to Moscow faster because you didn't have to deal with airline checkin etc. it did seem like a very long day to me, and there is so much to see and do in st. Petersburg that I didn't consider doing it.

countflorida

We toured to Moscow from St. Petersburg via the hi-speed SAPSAN train last September, from a Baltic cruise on the Oceania Marina. You need to have a two-night, three day port call in St. Petersburg to take this tour because the tour typically leaves the ship around 5:00 - 5:30 AM and doesn't return until after midnight the next day. We didn't take the ship's tour; we made private arrangements with TravelAllRussia for three days of touring, the first and third days in St. Petersburg and the second day the tour to Moscow by train. Our cost for the private tour for three days was about the same as what the ship charged for the excursion to Moscow alone. There are a number of private tour agencies that operate in St. Petersburg and offer the Moscow train tours; we would strongly recommend them over the ship's tours.

All three days had private guides with car and driver. The second day, the driver picked us up at the ship and took us to the train, but we were alone on the train, and met in Moscow by the guide on the station platform. After our tour and dinner, we were brought back to the train and after the return train trip met by the driver and taken back to the ship. Because you are alone on the train you must have your own Russian visas.

If this is your first visit to St. Petersburg, I would agree there is much more to see there. We found Moscow somewhat a disappointment, particularly Red Square. The Kremlin and the cathedral in Red Square were also worth seeing. But the best thing we saw was the Moscow subway! I worked for the Washington Metro system back in the 1980s as it grew from 40 to 80 miles and although I was in the computer area, I learned a lot about the challenges of running a subway system. We used the Moscow system to get across the city from where we had dinner to the train station, and I was amazed at the cleanliness', speed of operation, the short headways maintained, and the courtesy of everyone involved. A very impressive experience!

We had been to St. Petersburg before, and so had the time to take a day and go to Moscow. Also, I really like trains, and the SAPSAN is a German train set running on Russian rails. Seats are like first class domestic air, spacious but not too plush or comfortable, but with enough room. Not too much recline, and almost 8 hours on the train in two shots is a lot for an old man. They come through and sell drinks, candy, etc. but the sellers don't speak English and no one around us helped, so we had just poor coffee once coming, and brought stuff with us for the trip back. Not too much to see from the train either, particularly on the return when it is night the whole way.

If you decide to go, take a private tour and avoid the overly expensive ship's tour. I'm glad we did it, but wouldn't bother to repeat the tour; we've seen Moscow.

Thanks so much to all of you for the thorough and thought insight. Yhe information you have provided is most helpful.

countflorida: Your detailed post is very helpful. We are not quite ready for a Baltic cruise but should do so within a year. Time enough to do our pre travel research, bookings and visa gathering.:) Thank you!

Emperor Norton

Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.   Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?   My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

I did this on Seabourn. IMO DONT. Take Aeroflop (er Aeroflot). The train has non folding seats where you are literally knee to knee with your fellow passenger (facing each other). Further they don't believe in air conditioning. It's also the worlds slowed bullet train. I think I would have found more enjoyment wandering around the St. Petersburg and Moscow airports.

Countflorida,

This is a little off topic,, however we had planned a river cruise in Russia but decided we would rather stay on land and have booked about two weeks with Travel-All-Russia using the private guide and driver. I'm curious as to how you found them as a tour company.

The guides they provided were fine. We had a different guide each of the days in St. Petersburg, but both were flexible, pleasant, knowledgeable and spoke English very well, as did the guide in Moscow, incidentally. She was a bit aloof, distant, not too friendly, but otherwise fine. In fact, she was the one who suggested taking the Metro, which unexpectedly became one of the highlights of the Moscow excursion. If I have a complaint with AllTravelRussia, it is with their plan and its execution (more later).

I had requested emphasis on World War II (in Russia, the Great Patriotic War) sites and info. In scheduling us, they weren't careful about dates and a couple of the sites we wanted to see were scheduled on the third day, after we'd been to Moscow. But both sites were closed that day of the week, and that info was readily available, right on web sites describing them. Also, the included meals (lunches in St. Pete, dinner in Moscow) were not what we asked for: light meals with some choices, so we could avoid things we didn't like and choose things we did like. My request was ignored; we were given full Russian meals with a fixed menu, no choice. On the first day, a fish dish was the entre, but I am allergic to fish. Fortunately, I had the e-mail I'd sent with me and showed it to the guide, and she was able to change my entre to chicken, which was very good actually. But we didn't want a 3-4 course lunches or dinner (in Moscow). We had the guide drop the lunch the third day, although we never got any credit or refund. But, particularly in contrast to the ship's tours, the prices were so reasonable we didn't worry too much about it.

The people who were on the ship's tour to Moscow saw us boarding the same train for which they were forced to queue up and wait on the way back, and asked us what we had done. I was candid and open so they were not happy when I explained what we had arranged and particularly what it had cost. Also, when we returned to the ship, we found they had laid on a late supper for those who had gone to Moscow, so up we went and had something. Well, it turns out the late supper was supposed to be just for those on the ship's tour, but we and others on 'independent' tours, there were a dozen or more of us, crashed the party, actually got there first, and they didn't realize it until the larger group arrived and there weren't enough tables/places set. By that time, the 'independents' had all gotten served and were eating; what could they do?

A couple from the larger group sat down with us and asked us about our tour, and they were the ones I told about our arrangement and its cost. They turned to others who’d been with them and announced the details, loudly enough so the whole room heard, which started a lot of bitching and complaining. I gathered they weren't very happy with the ship's tour to begin with, and this was the straw that broke the camel's back. We finished up and beat it out of there, but overheard later that one of the excursion staff came to check on something and ran into a real mess. I caught a cold on the trip, which forced me to bed the second day following in Tallinn, so by the time we reappeared we heard about the contretemps' but apparently no one recalled who started it, thankfully.

Because of what happened to us, I would probably not use AllTravelRussia if I were to go again, or if I did, I would be sure to get confirmation of every detail of the tour. They do have good reviews generally, and we were certainly helped by their visa department and liked the guides and drivers. Their weakness, I say now with full 20:20 hindsight, is that once the sales person who plans the tour, sells it to you and collects your money, he (or she) transfers the plan to their Russia office for implementation; there is no follow-up to make sure it gets done right. And that is where our problems arose; we paid for a custom tour but got a standard package with a few destinations switched, and no one checked them out, even to see when they were open the day we were scheduled to go. If you check every detail that’s important to you, it should be OK, but that’s a hell of a way to have to do business, in my opinion.

Thank you for the 20/20 hindsight observation on your Russian tour operator, and better priced than the ship's excursion cost.

Thanks very much for the feedback.

We had the same experience as you so far as price. We originally booked a Viking Cruise but, hearing some things about the river cruises that made us unhappy, looked into other options. T-A-R cost the same or less than a cruise and had us in hotels for 11 days. We opted for the private tour. They have three tour levels, based on hotels. We originally opted for the four star as it did not cost much more than the three star hotels. Finally we decided to throw it all in and upgraded to five star. In Moscow we will be at the newly opened Kempinsky which is two blocks from Red Square. In St. Petersburg it is the Grand Hotel Europe, one of the most vaunted luxury hotels in Russia. Location is important for us as the tours use up only part of the day so being in the center of everything for our independent touring is important. As with many other cities, the less you pay, the farther out of the center of town you are.

We have been working with our salesman in D.C. and he seems to get back to us with the changes we want. He recently returned from Russia so is up on everything. When I asked they said they paid the full TA commission if I wanted so I got my usual TA on board so he is watching our back and giving us that extra level of comfort. He also set up our air, which I know pays him little or nothing, and got us business class for much less than T-A-R wanted for economy, though it took working for a while with a consolidator. He's happy to get his 10 percent on this trip without having booked it. He also took care of the trip insurance. We've been doing a lot of research on the CC sister site Trip Advisor and will write a report there. We will, I guess, become a source of info for CC members after having spent 5 days in Moscow and 6 in SP.

• 4 months later...

scubacruiserx2

Anybody considering a day trip to Moscow from St. Petersburg on the Sapsan may want to look at our travelogue filled with pictures.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1927687

Very informative. Thanks dor sharing. Jeff

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Journalist Masha Gessen, charged by Russian government with misinformation, 'functionally denied' Australian visa

By Judd Boaz

Topic: Immigration Policy

Masha Gessen was due to speak in Sydney and Melbourne this week as a part of a festival programme. ( X: Masha Gessen )

Russian-American Masha Gessen, a journalist and prominent critic of the Russian government, claims their visa application has been stalled over criminal charges laid down by the Kremlin.

Gessen was sentenced to eight years in jail by a Moscow court in July, after they were accused of spreading misinformation about the Russian army.

What's next?

A Home Affairs spokesperson said they could not comment on individual cases as festival directors say Gessen will speak via videolink if a visa is not granted in time.

An outspoken critic of Russian president Vladimir Putin says their Australian visa application has been delayed in light of criminal charges laid down in Russia.

Russian-American journalist Masha Gessen was due to arrive in Australia this past weekend as a part of a speaking tour with the Festival of Dangerous Ideas (FODI) in Sydney and at the Wheeler Centre in Melbourne.

Gessen has written extensively on Russian politics, including an unauthorised and highly critical 2012 biography of Mr Putin.

Gessen has been an outspoken critic of Russian president Vladimir Putin. ( Reuters: Sputnik/Gavriil Grigorov )

In a statement on Monday, Gessen said they had been "functionally denied" a visa by the Australian government in a move that would assist the Kremlin.

"The Russian government's persecution of me has one purpose: to make me feel unfree even though I am living in exile and they can't currently jail me," they said.

"I am shocked that the first allies the Russians have found in this quest to constrain me are the Australian authorities, who have functionally denied me a visa."

Russian court hands down eight-year sentence

In July, a Moscow court sentenced Gessen to eight years in prison on charges of spreading false information about the Russian military. 

The criminal case was launched against Gessen after the author gave an interview discussing alleged war crimes committed by Russian forces during the invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

The Moscow Times reported in July that Gessen was found guilty of "disseminating knowingly false information about Russian military personnel motivated by political hatred".

According to state-owned Russian news site TASS, more than 130 people have been convicted since 2022 for spreading fake news about the Russian armed forces.

In 2022, Russia amended its criminal code to penalise a person "discrediting the use of the Russian Federation Armed Forces for the purposes of defending the interests of the Russian Federation and its citizens", with jail terms of up to 15 years able to be handed down for breach of the new law.

Russia's prosecutions of military critics in the wake of its invasion of Ukraine has been described as an "unrelenting witch-hunt" by human rights group Amnesty International .

Gessen says they are "shocked" by the delays they have faced in obtaining an Australian visa. ( Supplied: The Wheeler Centre )

Simon Longstaff — executive director of The Ethics Centre which runs FODI — said requests made by the Australian government for documentation from Gessen were unreasonable given the circumstances.

"Amongst other things, the Department is seeking a US Police and FBI check where no offence has ever been committed," Mr Longstaff said.

"It would seem that the sole reason for the Department seeking a police and FBI clearance has been the open declaration of a conviction for a 'crime' that all the world knows to be bogus and politically motivated."

A Department of Home Affairs spokesperson said they could not comment on individual cases for privacy reasons.

The spokesperson said processing times could vary for a "range of reasons", including whether the applicant has submitted all documents, and delays associated with receiving information from the client and external agencies.

Policies detailed on the Department of Home Affairs website state visa applicants are checked for criminal records as part of the application process. 

"You may need to provide a police clearance from your country and your other countries of residence to us," the Home Affairs website states.

"You will not pass the character test if you hold a substantial criminal record. If you don't pass the character test, you will not get a visa to enter Australia."

Gessen is scheduled to speak in Melbourne on Wednesday and in Sydney on Saturday.

The festival's organisers said Gessen would still be invited to speak via videolink should their visa not be granted in time.