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Sunset Bosphorus Cruise by Private Yacht

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Overview

  • Duration:3 hours 0 minutes
  • Travelers:1 - 12 guests
  • Tour Type:Daily Tour, Private Tour
  • Language:English
There are many ways to see the Bosphorus, but few feel as effortless as stepping onto your own private yacht, finding a comfortable spot on deck and watching the city slowly light up around you. This experience is designed for couples, families and small groups who want a smooth, unhurried cruise with attentive service and room to breathe.

Your captain and crew welcome you on board at a central pier, offering soft drinks and light snacks as you settle in. As the yacht moves away from the shore, the sounds of the city soften and you start to feel the breeze from the water. On one side, elegant wooden yalıs and Ottoman palaces line the European shore; on the other, quiet neighbourhoods and leafy hills spread along the Asian side.

During the cruise you pass Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, the Bosphorus bridges and small fishing villages where locals drink tea by the water. Your guide or on‑board host points out landmarks and shares a few stories, but there is plenty of quiet time to simply enjoy the view, take photos or raise a glass as the sky shifts from soft pink to deep blue.

By the time you return to the pier, the city lights are reflected on the water and the call to prayer echoes gently from both sides of the strait. The crew helps you disembark and your driver, if arranged, is ready to take you back to your hotel or to a favourite restaurant to continue the evening.
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Highlights

  • Private 2 hours Bosphorus cruise on a comfortable yacht reserved.
  • Golden hour and sunset views of Istanbul’s palaces, bridges, mosques and shoreline neighbourhoods.
  • Tea and coffee served on board, with the option to add special extras on request.
  • Flexible routing on the European and Asian shores, with photo stops and commentary tailored to your interests.
  • Ideal for couples, families and small groups looking for a relaxed, crowd‑free Bosphorus experience.

Itinerary

Transfer and Meeting at the Pier

Transfer from hotel to Pier  around 17:00 - 17:30.

Getting on  Private Yacht around  18:00

Location: Central Bosphorus pier (for example Kabataş or Balat)

You meet the crew at the agreed pier and step on board your private yacht. After a brief safety introduction, choose your favourite spot on deck or in the lounge while soft drinks and light snacks are served.

European Shore: Palaces & Bridges

Time: 18:00 – 19:00
Route: From Kabataş towards the Bosphorus Bridge and beyond

As the yacht glides along the European shore, you pass Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace and the elegant houses of Beşiktaş and Ortaköy. The captain keeps a comfortable distance from the shore for wide panoramic photos, while your host points out landmarks and the best angles for sunset shots.

Asian Shore: Quiet Neighbourhoods & Local Life

Time: 19:00 – 20:00
Route: Crossing to the Asian side and cruising past Beylerbeyi and Çengelköy

Cross the strait towards the quieter Asian side. See Beylerbeyi Palace from the water and watch everyday life unfold in small coastal neighbourhoods where locals drink tea by the shore. Depending on conditions, there is time for a short pause with the engines low so you can simply enjoy the colours and reflections.

Return Cruise After Sunset

Time: 20:00
Route: Back towards your starting pier

Transfer back to your hotel 20:15 - 20:30

On the return journey, the city lights and illuminated bridges create a different atmosphere. Enjoy your last photos and a final drink on deck as the yacht slowly returns to the pier. After disembarking, you can continue your evening with dinner nearby or  transfer back to your hotel.

Tour maps

Includes/Excludes

  • Hotel pickup & drop-off from city central Istanbul (European side).
  • 2 Hours private Yacht cruise.
  • Personal expenses (food and drinks, tips).
  • If need Professional Tour Guide.

Cancellation policy

You can cancel up to 120 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

Frequently asked questions

Is this cruise shared or completely private?

This is a fully private Bosphorus experience – the yacht, crew and schedule are reserved just for your party. There will be no other guests on board, which allows for more flexibility with routing, photo stops and special requests.

What is included on board?

Includes a private yacht with captain and crew, tea and coffee .
Alcoholic beverages, special celebration cakes, professional photography or DJ, live music can be arranged in advance for an additional cost.

What should we wear for an evening cruise?

Even on warm days, it can feel cooler on the water after sunset. We recommend bringing a light jacket or shawl and wearing comfortable, flat shoes suitable for a boat deck. There is indoor seating if the breeze becomes too strong.

Where does the cruise start and finish?

The yacht usually departs from a central pier on the European side, such as Kabataş or Balat, which are easy to reach.

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