Embark on an enchanting journey through the captivating Asian side of Istanbul with a scenic boat cruise along the Bosphorus Strait. This half-day guided tour allows you to learn about the city’s rich cultural heritage, admiring iconic landmarks like the majestic Dolmabahce Palace and the charming Ortakoy Mosque. Indulge in complimentary Turkish tea and snacks as you take in the breathtaking views, and enjoy a leisurely one-hour stop at Beylerbeyi for further exploration. This cruise offers a perfect blend of relaxation and sightseeing, promising an unforgettable experience that’ll leave you yearning to discover more of Istanbul’s vibrant waterfront.
Key Points
- Take a guided cruise along the Bosphorus Strait to explore the iconic sights on the Asian side, including Galata Tower, Dolmabahce Palace, and Ortakoy Mosque.
- Enjoy a one-hour stop at Beylerbeyi for leisure activities and relax while taking in the stunning coastal scenery.
- Indulge in complimentary Turkish tea and snacks during the cruise, and optionally, a Turkish breakfast on the 10:00 AM tour.
- Benefit from flexible pricing options, including ‘Reserve now, pay later’ and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The cruise is suitable for a wide range of passengers, from ages 18 to 99, with some restrictions on accessibility and prohibited items.
👉 Check out our guide to the 20 Best 2 Day Tours In Istanbul
Contents
- Key Points
- Overview of the Cruise
- Itinerary and Key Highlights
- Onboard Amenities and Services
- Ticket Pricing and Availability
- Meeting Point and Transportation
- Suitability and Participant Details
- Packing List and Prohibited Items
- Customer Reviews and Ratings
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?
- Are There Any Discounts or Offers Available for the Cruise?
- Can I Customize the Itinerary or Duration of the Cruise?
- How Accessible Is the Cruise for Individuals With Disabilities?
- What Are the Payment Options Available for Booking the Cruise?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Istanbul
- More Boat Tours & Cruises in Istanbul
- More Tour Reviews in Istanbul
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Istanbul we have recnetly reviewed
Overview of the Cruise
This half-day guided cruise allows visitors to explore the picturesque Bosphorus Strait, with tour durations ranging from 30 minutes to 2.5 hours depending on the selected option, and prices starting from £12.73 per person.
The cruise offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a ‘reserve now, pay later’ option is available, making it a convenient and flexible choice.
Whether you’re seeking a brief sightseeing excursion or a more immersive experience, this Bosphorus cruise caters to a variety of preferences and budgets, providing a wonderful opportunity to discover Istanbul’s stunning waterfront landmarks and scenic Asian side.
Ready to set sail again? More boat adventures we've reviewed in Istanbul
Itinerary and Key Highlights
The Bosphorus cruise begins with a 30-minute bus or coach transfer from Istanbul Ticaret Üniversitesi to the Bosphorus Strait, where passengers can marvel at the iconic Galata Tower, the opulent Dolmabahce Palace, the grand Ciragan Palace, and the picturesque Ortakoy Mosque along the way.
After taking in these sights, the cruise makes a one-hour stop at Beylerbeyi, allowing passengers to explore, shop, or simply relax.
The return journey offers stunning views of the Maiden Tower and the charming seaside houses that line the Bosphorus.
Throughout the experience, passengers can enjoy Turkish tea and a variety of snacks and refreshments.
Onboard Amenities and Services
Passengers on the Bosphorus cruise can enjoy a variety of onboard amenities and services.
For the 10:00 AM cruise option, a Turkish breakfast is provided, which includes cheeses, olives, eggs, honey, jams, butter, and sausage, accompanied by Turkish tea.
Meanwhile, the 6:00 PM cruise offers cookies and Turkish tea as refreshments. Soft drinks and snacks are also available in the onboard cafeteria.
Plus, the entry ticket to Beylerbeyi Palace is included in the cruise package, allowing passengers to explore this historic landmark during the one-hour stop.
These onboard offerings enhance the overall cruise experience, catering to the needs and preferences of the diverse range of passengers, from adults to children and infants.
Ticket Pricing and Availability
According to the information provided, the Bosphorus boat cruise offers a range of pricing options to accommodate different budgets and preferences. Prices for the experience start from £12.73 per person, with the duration of the tour varying from 30 minutes to 2.5 hours depending on the selected option.
Plus, the cruise provides a ‘reserve now & pay later’ option, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing for flexibility in planning the trip.
The key highlights of the ticket pricing and availability include:
-
Prices starting from £12.73 per person
-
Tour durations ranging from 30 minutes to 2.5 hours
-
Reserve now & pay later option available
-
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
Meeting Point and Transportation
Starting from the Istanbul Ticaret University, participants embark on a 30-minute bus or coach transfer that delivers them directly to the Bosphorus Strait, the scenic waterway separating the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.
Once there, the half-day guided cruise commences, providing ample opportunities to admire iconic landmarks such as the Galata Tower, Dolmabahce Palace, Ciragan Palace, and the Ortakoy Mosque.
The cruise also includes a one-hour stop at Beylerbeyi, where participants can explore, shop, or simply relax.
The return journey offers stunning views of the Maiden Tower and the charming seaside houses lining the Bosphorus coastline.
Suitability and Participant Details
The Bosphorus cruise is suitable for adults aged 18 to 99, children aged 3 to 17, and infants younger than 2 years old. However, it’s not accessible for wheelchair users. Participants should arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time at the meeting point, which may vary.
To ensure a smooth experience, it’s recommended to bring:
-
Warm clothing
-
Camera and charged smartphone
-
Cash and passport or ID (copy accepted)
Prohibited items include weapons, sharp objects, alcohol, and smoking indoors. While the overall experience is highly rated, participants should note that electric wheelchairs aren’t permitted on the cruise.
Packing List and Prohibited Items
To ensure a seamless cruise experience, participants should pack a few essential items. These include warm clothing to stay comfortable during the journey, a camera or charged smartphone to capture memorable moments, and cash or a copy of their passport or ID. Plus, it’s important to be aware of the prohibited items, which include weapons, sharp objects, alcohol, and smoking indoors. Bringing an electric wheelchair is also not permitted.
| Recommended Items | Prohibited Items |
|---|---|
| Warm clothing | Weapons |
| Camera/Smartphone | Sharp objects |
| Cash/ID | Alcohol |
| Smoking indoors | |
| Electric wheelchairs |
Following these guidelines will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable Bosphorus cruise for all participants.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Customers have provided generally positive reviews of the Bosphorus boat cruise, with an overall rating of 3.9 out of 5 based on 99 reviews.
Highlights of the customer feedback include:
-
The guide’s performance, which received a 3.8/5 rating, with participants praising their knowledge and engagement.
-
The transportation, which earned a 4.3/5 rating, with customers appreciating the comfortable and efficient transfer to and from the cruise.
-
The service on board, which received a perfect 5/5 rating, with participants highlighting the attentive and friendly staff.
While there are a few areas for improvement, the Bosphorus boat cruise appears to offer a memorable and enjoyable experience for visitors to Istanbul.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?
Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the cruise, though some operators may have restrictions. It’s best to check with the specific cruise operator ahead of time to understand their policy.
Are There Any Discounts or Offers Available for the Cruise?
Yes, there are discounts and offers available for the cruise. Discounts may include reduced prices for children, seniors, and groups. Some tours also offer a ‘reserve now, pay later’ option. Customers should check the tour provider’s website for current offers.
Can I Customize the Itinerary or Duration of the Cruise?
Customers can customize the itinerary or duration of the cruise, though additional fees may apply. The cruise operator offers flexible options, allowing guests to tailor the experience to their preferences within the available tour selections.
How Accessible Is the Cruise for Individuals With Disabilities?
The cruise is not suitable for wheelchair users, according to the participant information provided. Those with other disabilities should contact the tour operator to inquire about accessibility accommodations before booking.
What Are the Payment Options Available for Booking the Cruise?
The cruise offers a ‘Reserve now & pay later’ option, allowing customers to book the cruise without immediate payment. Plus, the cruise accepts standard payment methods like credit/debit cards for those who prefer to pay upfront.
Istanbul: Explore Asian Side of Bosphorous on a Boat Cruise
Recap
Exploring the Asian side of Istanbul through a scenic Bosphorus boat cruise is an enchanting experience.
Travelers can admire iconic landmarks, enjoy Turkish tea and snacks, and take a leisurely stop for exploration, all while seeing the city’s vibrant waterfront.
This half-day guided tour offers a perfect blend of relaxation and sightseeing, making it an unforgettable way to discover the beauty of Istanbul.
You can check availability for your dates here:
