Bosphorus Cruise Istanbul with Audio Guide Tickets
About this tour
See Istanbul the way it was meant to be seen, from the water. This Bosphorus cruise sails you past Ottoman palaces, waterfront mansions, and old stone fortresses along the shore, crossing the strait that splits Europe and Asia. An optional audio guide fills in the history as you go. Choose the option that fits your day: a classic sightseeing sail, a dinner cruise with onboard entertainment, or a private luxury yacht. It's an easy, scenic couple of hours with some of the best skyline photos you'll take in the city.
Highlights
- See Istanbul's landmarks from the water, a view you can't get on land
- Sail between the European and Asian sides of the city
- Relax on a scenic cruise with an optional audio guide
- Pass Ottoman palaces, waterfront mansions, and old fortresses along the shore
- Get standout photos of the Istanbul skyline
- Pick from a sightseeing sail, a dinner cruise with entertainment, or a private yacht
Places You Will Visit
Cruise Times and What to Wear
Bosphorus cruise schedules shift with the season and the type of sail you book. Classic sightseeing cruises run through most of the day, roughly 09:00 to 23:00. Brunch cruises tend to leave around 10:00, and sunset sails depart between 17:00 and 18:00 in summer, a bit earlier in winter. Departure times differ by operator, so check the exact schedule when you book.
There's no dress code for a Bosphorus cruise. Casual, comfortable clothing is fine for daytime sailings, while dinner cruises call for a smart-casual look. Since it runs cooler and windier out on the water than on land, dress in layers so you can adjust as the temperature changes.
Check the official site for current visiting times before you go.Weather in Istanbul
Local time 5:31 AM, UTC+03:00
Available Days / Times
- Monday : 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00, 18:00
- Tuesday : 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00, 18:00
- Wednesday : 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00, 18:00
- Thursday : 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00, 18:00
- Friday : 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00, 18:00
- Saturday : 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00, 18:00
- Sunday : 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00, 18:00
Last updated: Oct 23, 2026
Important Information
- Timing and what's included depend on the cruise type: sightseeing, dinner with entertainment, or private yacht
- Most cruises leave from Eminonu, Kabatas, or Karakoy; confirm your exact pier in advance, as it varies by cruise and provider
- Arrive early for smooth boarding, especially in peak season
- Check the forecast and dress for it; it's cooler and windier on the water than on shore
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for daytime sails; a light jacket for evening ones
- Take motion-sickness medication ahead of time if you're prone to seasickness
- Snacks and drinks are often sold on board, though this varies by operator
- Follow the crew's instructions and all onboard safety rules
- Arrive at least 20 minutes before departure; 30 minutes for dinner cruises or private yachts
- A mobile voucher or printed ticket works for boarding; bring a photo ID
- Smoking is allowed only in designated areas, where available
- Alcohol and large luggage are generally not permitted on board
- Do not litter or throw anything into the water
- Most of all, sit back and enjoy the ride
FAQs
Where can I buy tickets for a Bosphorus cruise?
How long is the Bosphorus cruise?
How much does a Bosphorus cruise cost?
How do I book a Bosphorus cruise?
Is a Bosphorus cruise worth it?
Which Bosphorus cruise should I take?
How do I get to the Bosphorus cruise departure point?
Similar tours
Bosphorus Cruise & Golden Horn Tour with Audio Guide
Bosphorus Cruise Istanbul: Audio Guide from Kabatas
Bosphorus Cruise Istanbul with Audio Guide
Bosphorus Cruise Istanbul: Audio Guide Boat Tour