Day Tours Day Tour · 3h

Private Sunset Cruise on the Bosphorus

Istanbul 17:00 – 20:00 Cruise / Boat Max 10 people
Price on request Free, no-obligation quote
Private vehicle
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
Kuruçeşme or Bebek pier (to be confirmed depending on availability)

About This Tour

Sail the Bosphorus strait on a private yacht at sunset, the most magical time to see Istanbul from the water. For 3 hours, with an English-speaking guide on board, you follow the route between Europe and Asia past Ottoman palaces, medieval fortresses, yalıs (wooden mansions) and the intercontinental bridges. Includes a Turkish aperitif with meze, fruit and drinks while the sun sets behind the silhouette of the mosques. An exclusive, intimate experience.

Hour-by-Hour Itinerary

17:00

Boarding and welcome

We pick you up and head to the private pier. Boarding the yacht and a welcome with Turkish tea. Your guide introduces the route while the captain starts the engines and we leave the pier with the Bosphorus stretching out ahead of us.

20 min
17:20

Palaces and fortresses on the European shore

We sail south past Dolmabahçe Palace (white marble seen from the water), Çırağan Palace (now an ultra-luxury hotel), the Ortaköy Mosque beneath the first bridge and the most expensive yalıs (wooden Ottoman mansions) in the world. Your guide tells you the story of each building.

30 min
17:50

Rumeli Hisarı Fortress and the second bridge

We reach the imposing Rumeli Hisarı Fortress, built by Mehmed the Conqueror in just 4 months in 1452 to prepare for the conquest of Constantinople. We pass under the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, with views of the Asian fortress opposite.

20 min
18:10

The Asian shore: Beylerbeyi and Kanlıca

We follow the Asian coast past Beylerbeyi Palace (the sultans' summer residence) and the little village of Kanlıca, famous for its yoghurt. Turkish meze are served on board as we sail.

30 min
18:40

Sunset over the Bosphorus

We drop anchor at a strategic point in the strait to watch the sun set over the Istanbul skyline. The domes and minarets stand out against the golden sky as the city lights begin to come on. The perfect moment for photos, or simply to enjoy.

Read more about Sunset over the Bosphorus 30 min
19:10

The illuminated Bosphorus and return

We sail back to the pier with Istanbul fully lit up. The palaces, mosques and bridges reflected in the dark waters of the Bosphorus make an unforgettable sight. Farewell at the pier.

Read more about The illuminated Bosphorus and return 40 min

Included

  • Private yacht with captain (3 hours)
  • Licensed English-speaking guide on board
  • Turkish aperitif: meze, seasonal fruit and nuts
  • Drinks: tea, coffee, water and soft drinks
  • One-way transfer to the pier

Not Included

  • Alcoholic drinks (you may bring your own)
  • Tips for the captain
  • Return transfer (can be arranged)

Interested in This Tour?

Message me and I'll confirm availability within an hour. I can also adapt it to suit you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “Private Sunset Cruise on the Bosphorus” include?

It includes: Private yacht with captain (3 hours); Licensed English-speaking guide on board; Turkish aperitif: meze, seasonal fruit and nuts; Drinks: tea, coffee, water and soft drinks; One-way transfer to the pier. Not included: Alcoholic drinks (you may bring your own); Tips for the captain; Return transfer (can be arranged).

What time does it start and how long does it last?

The tour starts at 17:00 and lasts about 3 hours. Meeting point: Kuruçeşme or Bebek pier (to be confirmed depending on availability).

Is it a private or a shared tour?

This is a private tour: just you and your group with the guide (maximum 10 people), never shared with other tourists. That means the pace can be adapted and we can go deeper into the topics that interest you most.

Can I book for tomorrow?

Yes, subject to availability. We recommend booking at least 24–48 hours in advance to secure your date, but we can often arrange last-minute tours.

What is the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. The price is confirmed in a free, no-obligation quote before you book.

Is it suitable for children?

Of course. The guide adapts the pace and explanations for families. Young children get free or reduced entry at many sites in Türkiye; the age limit varies from one site to another.

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