14 Sep, 2025
🚤 Bosphorus Cruise Guide – Istanbul
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Bosphorus Cruise Istanbul – Types, Routes, Prices, Hours, How to Get & Tips (2025)

Updated: • Reading time: 5–7 mins

🚤 Bosphorus Cruise Guide – Istanbul

The Bosphorus Cruise Istanbul is a must-do experience along the Bosphorus Strait linking Asia and Europe—with palaces, bridges, historic neighborhoods, and green coastline views. Below you’ll find types of cruises (short/long, dinner, private yacht), prices, routes & stops (Eminönü, Kabataş), how to get there (Tram T1, ferries), tips, CTA booking buttons, and FAQs. Also see our related guides: Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia, Spice Bazaar, Galata Tower.

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🚤 Bosphorus cruises – GetYourGuide 🍽️ Dinner cruises – GYG 🛥️ Private yacht charters – GYG 🏨 Hotels near Eminönü – Booking

⛴️ Types of Bosphorus Cruises

  • Short Cruise (≈2 hours): Departs from Eminönü or Kabataş up to the Second Bridge and back — perfect for tight schedules.
  • Long Cruise (≈6 hours): Extends to Anadolu Kavağı near the Black Sea with a lunch stop.
  • Evening Dinner Cruises: Boats or yachts with Turkish cuisine and live entertainment.
  • Private Yachts: VIP experience with flexible route and photo stops.

📍 Main Stops & Route

  • 🚢 Eminönü – the most popular departure point.
  • ⚓ Kabataş – close to Dolmabahçe and Çırağan palaces.
  • 🏯 Sights along the way: Dolmabahçe Palace, Beylerbeyi Palace.
  • 🌉 Bridges: 15 July Martyrs (Bosphorus) Bridge, Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge.
  • 🏘️ Neighborhoods: Ortaköy, Bebek, Üsküdar, Kandilli.

💰 Prices (Typical)

  • Short Cruise: €5–10 per person.
  • Long Cruise: €12–20 per person.
  • Dinner Cruises: €40–70 per person (food & shows included).
  • Private Yacht: from €100/hour (varies by boat size & services).

Prices vary by season and operator; compare reputable providers or book online for clarity.

🚇 How to Get There

  • Tram T1 → Eminönü or Kabataş stations.
  • Taxi/Apps: BiTaksi or Uber (licensed taxis).

💡 Visiting Tips

  • Choose the open upper deck for the best photos (bring a light jacket; sea breeze can be cool).
  • Sunset cruises are ideal for photographing palaces & bridges.
  • Avoid random tourist offices; prefer Şehir Hatları (city lines) or trusted platforms like GetYourGuide.

🌟 Nearby Attractions

❓ Bosphorus Cruise – FAQ

Where do most Bosphorus cruises start?
Eminönü (near the Spice Bazaar) and Kabataş are the most common departure points.

Short vs. long cruise — which to choose?
Pick the 2-hour cruise for a quick overview; choose the long cruise to reach Anadolu Kavağı and enjoy a lunch stop.

Are dinner cruises worth it?
They combine night views, dinner, and entertainment — great for couples or families seeking an all-in-one evening.

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Bosphorus Cruise (Istanbul)
Bosphorus Cruise (Istanbul)