A private Istanbul cruise gives you the opportunity to explore Istanbul from a different perspective. Whether you are looking for an intimate getaway or a luxurious adventure, there is a charter designed to suit your needs.
With access to some of the best views of both Europe and Asia, along with stunning scenery and fantastic nightlife options, it’s no wonder why many travelers consider a private Istanbul cruise to be the ultimate experience.
10 of the Top Private Istanbul Cruise
When looking for the perfect private Istanbul cruise there are some things to keep in mind. First, you’ll want to find one that is suitable for your group size. Smaller yachts are great for couples or small groups, while larger vessels can accommodate up to 12 people comfortably.
Additionally, make sure the yacht has all of the amenities that you need and desire such as a spacious deck for entertaining, and a variety of activities on offer.
1. Private Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise on Luxury Yacht
Price: $657 per group (up to 15 people)
Duration: 2 hours
Departs From: Ömer Avni, 34427 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
Rating: 5/5 (60+ reviews)
About the Tour: Enjoy a lavish cruise down the Bosphorus while experiencing all of Istanbul’s most popular attractions without having to worry about going from one place to another!
On this enriching private yacht voyage, you can take in majestic sights like 19th-century Dolmabahce Palace, the imposing Rumeli Fortress, and Maiden Tower.
As you sail along on your journey, savor homemade lemonade and tasty treats such as fresh fruit and baklava for an even more fulfilling experience.
2. Bosphorus Dinner / Lunch Cruise – Private and Customizable
Price: $484-$1,718 per group (up to 2-15 people with 2 and 3-hour options)
Duration: 2-3 hours
Departs From: Bebek, Cevdet Paşa Cd. No:131, 34342 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye
Rating: 5/5 (20+ reviews)
About the Tour: Witness the majestic beauty of Istanbul from your own private yacht! Lotus Yacht’s professional crew will cater to all your needs while you’re on board.
Snap countless pictures as you embark on a tour starting at Bebek Sahili, one of the city’s most iconic nightlife spots, and cruise towards Rumeli Fortress for other magnificent sights including Ortakoy Mosque and Hagia Sophia Mosque.
Customize your experience with birthday celebrations, flower bouquets, or live music options during dinner served onboard – fish kebab or vegetarian dishes available.
3. Private Bosphorus Cruise in Istanbul with Luxury Yacht
Price: $437-$909 per group (up to 15 people with multiple destination options)
Duration: 3 hours
Departs From: Arnavutköy, Bebek Arnavutköy Cd No:36, 34345 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye
Rating: 5/5 (20+ reviews)
About the Tour: Embark on a journey of grandeur and discover the beauty of Istanbul from your very own private yacht with your own private party! From up to fifteen guests, you’ll be able to traverse along the Bosphorus river and marvel at breathtaking views of Dolmabahce Palace, Ciragan Palace, as well as Rumeli Fortress. Onboard amenities include snacks and refreshments or upgrade for a full-day cruise that includes visits to the Princes Islands. It’s an experience like no other – book now!
4. Private Luxury Yacht Charter on Bosphorus
Price: $383 per group (up to 10 people)
Duration: 2 hours
Departs From: Ömer Avni, 34427 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
Rating: 5/5 (10+ reviews)
About the Tour: Create a lasting memory with your loved ones and embark on an unforgettable 2-hour Private Yacht Sightseeing Tour of the Bosphorus!
Marvel at spectacular panoramas of historical palaces, mansions, and bridges while sipping your choice of soft drinks, and non-alcoholic beverages between the continents of Europe and Asia.
If you’re lucky enough, you may even witness dolphins dancing in the waters. Our cruises come complete with professional captains and crew who are devoted to making sure your journey is as enjoyable as possible!
5. Luxury Private Yacht Rental
Price: $388-$689 per group (up to 10 people)
Duration: 2 hours
Departs From: Pickup/drop off included
Rating: 5/5 (10+ reviews)
About the Tour: Embark on an incredible and unforgettable journey through Istanbul’s Bosphorus – a picturesque stretch of water separating Asia from Europe.
You can soak in the beauty of this famous riviera as you stroll by some of its most awe-inspiring sights – including Sultans’ palaces, Pashas villas, Dolmabahçe Palace, Çirağan Palace, Rumeli Fortress, the Bosphorus Bridge and more!
Enjoy these astounding views up close with your own yacht to yourself for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
6. Private Yacht for Surprise Events / Birthday, Proposal, Anniversary, Parties, etc
Price: $429-$649 per group (up to 12 people with 2 and 3-hour options)
Duration: 2-3 hours
Departs From: Bebek, Cevdet Paşa Cd. No:131, 34342 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye
Rating: 5/5 (10+ reviews)
About the Tour: If you’re looking for a unique and memorable way to celebrate an event, take friends on a sightseeing tour, or make the perfect romantic proposal – a private yacht cruise along the Bosphorus is just what you need!
From decorations to live music, photoshoots to birthday cakes – with just an additional fee all these services are available. To really make it special why not upgrade your experience with something extra?
A laser show projecting any message of your choosing onto one of Istanbul’s iconic bridges will definitely bring this day up another notch!
7. Tour Istanbul: Private Bosphorus Strait Sightseeing Yacht Cruise
Price: $259 per group (up to 2 people) Best Price
Duration: 2 hours
Departs From: Azapkapı, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
Rating: 5/5 (10+ reviews)
About the Tour: Experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness two continents simultaneously on an exclusive yacht tour along Istanbul’s iconic Bosphorus Strait, gliding between the stunning coasts of Euro and Asia.
Revel in breathtaking views of majestic monuments as you drift past some of Istanbul’s most renowned sites.
Relax with your group atop your own personal sundeck while being pampered by our friendly crew – all set against the backdrop of mesmerizing landscapes that will linger long after the voyage has ended!
Explore the iconic water-hugging palaces of Sultans and their Pashas’ villas. On the European Side, uncover majestic attractions such as Dolmabahçe Palace, Çirağan Palace, Rumeli Fortress, and Bosphorus Bridge. On the Asian Side marvel at Anadolu Fortress, Beylerbeyi Palace, and more!
8. 2 – Hours Bosphorus Yacht Cruise
Price: $375 per group (up to 9 people)
Duration: 2 hours
Departs From: Pickup/drop off included
Rating: 4.5/5 (10+ reviews)
About the Tour: Enjoy a two-hour luxury yacht ride down the famous Bosphorus with up to nine passengers. Whether it be for an intimate gathering of family or friends, a romantic outing, business, or a corporate event – this aquatic experience will not disappoint!
Indulge in spectacular panoramic views of iconic landmarks such as Hagia Sofia and Topkapi Palace while savoring meals cooked right on board (for an additional cost). Capture life’s precious moments in style aboard your own private cruise along one of the world’s most remarkable straits.
9. Istanbul 2-Hour Private Bosphorus Yacht Tour
Price: $376 per group (up to 12 people)
Duration: 2 hours
Departs From: Ömer Avni, 34427 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
Rating: 5/5 (10+ reviews)
About the Tour: Enjoy a unique sightseeing tour on the Bosphorus from your own personal private yacht for two hours.
You will get to board this luxurious boat at the pier, leading you to picturesque views of Istanbul’s most renowned sites such as Dolmabahce Palace, Ciragan Palace, Beylerbeyi Palace, and more!
As you sail through both European & Asian coasts along the famed strait of Bosphorus, soak in majestic sights like Rumeli Fortress and Anadolu Fortress framed by its two bridges – an experience that is definitely worth it!
10. Full Day Private Luxury Yacht Cruise to Princes’ Island
Price: $599 per group (up to 9 people)
Duration: 8 hours
Departs From: Pickup/drop off included
Rating: 4.5/5 (10+ reviews)
About the Tour: Experience the breathtaking scenery and exclusive getaway of the Princes Islands this summer in luxurious style by chartering your own private boat tour.
With a capacity for up to 10 passengers, you can relax with family or friends away from Istanbul’s bustling city life while taking in views of the majestic islands like never before!
Plus, once arriving at any one of these enchanting destinations, take a refreshing dip right off your chartered vessel or venture ashore to explore independently.
Is the Bosphorus Tour Worth It?
Yes, a Bosphorus tour is worth it! The Bosphorus is an incredibly beautiful and important waterway in Turkey. It connects the Black Sea to the Marmara Sea, forming a vital link between Europe and Asia.
Taking a tour of the Bosphorus provides visitors with some stunning views including Ottoman palaces, ancient fortresses, modern bridges, and much more. Along your journey, you will be able to experience the city from both Europe and Asia, while learning about its culture and history.
Be sure to bring your camera with you – you are sure to get some incredible shots! Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, a Bosphorus tour should not be missed.
More Private Boat Tours in Europe:
- Amsterdam Private Boat Tours
- Private Boat Tours in Positano
- Paris Boat Tours for Private Parties
- Private Boat Tours of Cinque Terre
- Amazing Nice Boat Tours
Dayna Brockbank is a travel and language-learning blogger who has lived around the world but has now settled in Nice, France. She speaks 3 languages at varying levels of fluency: Spanish, Italian, and French, and graduated with a Bachelor’s in Spanish Education. She and her husband focus on making travel part of life by living cheaply and traveling on a budget.