Istanbul Luxury Bosphorus Yacht Cruise with Asian Side Stop
5.0 / 5 · 1,052 traveler reviews
Experience the Bosphorus in style on a scenic cruise between Europe and Asia, guided by a knowledgeable multilingual expert. Discover Istanbul from a unique vantage point as you sail along one of the world’s most iconic waterways. This is a small-group cruise on a luxury yacht, offering a calm, spacious, and premium alternative to crowded boats. Enjoy a stop on the Asian side in Beylerbeyi, where you can wander through a charming seaside neighborhood and experience authentic local life. Along the route, admire famous landmarks such as Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, and Maiden’s Tower, as well as the vibrant districts of Ortakoy and Bebek. Pass under the impressive Bosphorus bridges and see the historic Rumeli Fortress. During the 2.5-hour cruise, relax, take in the views, and enjoy engaging commentary—an unforgettable way to explore Istanbul.
Your experience
Stop 1
The Bosphorus is a narrow, natural strait located in Istanbul, Turkey, separating the European and Asian continents and connecting the Sea of Marmara to the Black Sea. It serves as a crucial waterway, not only dividing the city but also providing a significant maritime route between Europe and Asia. Stretching approximately 19 miles (30 kilometers) long and varying in width from about half a mile (750 meters) to nearly 2.3 miles (3.7 kilometers), the Bosphorus is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, historical significance, and strategic importance. The Bosphorus has been a vital trade route for centuries, influencing the geopolitics and culture of the region. Its shores are adorned with a mix of modern buildings, opulent palaces, historic fortresses, and traditional wooden waterfront mansions known as "yalıs."
Stop 2
The Dolmabahçe Palace is an opulent and magnificent palace located on the European coastline of the Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul, Turkey. Constructed during the Ottoman Empire, it served as the administrative center and residence for several Ottoman sultans, starting from the mid-19th century. Commissioned by Sultan Abdülmecid I and designed by architects Garabet Balyan and his son Nigoğayos Balyan, the construction of Dolmabahçe Palace began in 1843 and was completed in 1856. It was intended to replace the older and more traditional Topkapi Palace, reflecting the Ottoman Empire's desire to adopt a more Westernized and contemporary style.
Stop 3
The Dolmabahçe Mosque, also known as the Bezm-i Alem Valide Sultan Mosque, is an architectural gem located in Istanbul, Turkey. Commissioned by Bezm-i Alem Valide Sultan, the mother of Sultan Abdülmecid I, this mosque was constructed between 1853 and 1855 during the Ottoman period. The mosque's design is attributed to the famous Armenian architect Garabet Balyan, who was part of the Balyan family dynasty responsible for many significant architectural works during the Ottoman Empire. The Dolmabahçe Mosque displays a blend of Baroque and Ottoman architectural styles, showcasing an impressive structure characterized by its central dome and several smaller domes and semi-domes. The exterior boasts intricate details, with ornate decorations and calligraphy adorning the facade, while the interior features beautiful marble work, intricate tile patterns, and elegant decorations.
Stop 4
The Çırağan Palace, also spelled as "Çırağan Sarayı" in Turkish, is a lavish and historic palace located along the European shores of the Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul, Turkey. Constructed during the 19th century, it stands as a symbol of opulence and grandeur from the Ottoman era. Originally built between 1863 and 1867 during the reign of Sultan Abdülaziz, the palace was designed by the Armenian architect Nigoğayos Balyan. It was constructed as a royal residence and served as the Sultan's waterfront palace. The Çırağan Palace was designed in a neo-Baroque style, featuring magnificent architecture, luxurious interiors, and extensive gardens. Its opulent design incorporated elements of European architectural influences blended with Ottoman motifs, creating an extravagant and elegant structure. The palace boasted impressive features such as crystal staircases, exquisite marble interiors, intricate ornamentation, and spacious halls adorned with chandeliers and fine furnishings.
Stop 5
The Ortaköy Mosque, also known as the Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, is a picturesque and iconic mosque located on the shores of the Bosphorus in Istanbul, Turkey. Situated in the Ortaköy neighborhood on the European side of the city, this mosque is renowned for its stunning architecture and scenic location. Commissioned by Sultan Abdülmecid I and completed in 1856, the Ortaköy Mosque was designed by the Armenian architect Nigoğayos Balyan, who was part of the prominent Balyan family of architects during the Ottoman Empire. The mosque exhibits a fusion of architectural styles, combining elements of Ottoman Baroque and Neoclassical designs. Its distinctive feature is the elegant and slender minaret standing tall beside the main dome. The mosque's exterior is adorned with intricate ornamentation, including delicate carvings, decorative elements, and ornate details, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era.
Stop 6
The Bosphorus Bridge, known as the "Boğaziçi Köprüsü" in Turkish, is an iconic suspension bridge that spans the Bosphorus Strait, connecting the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, Turkey. It holds significant importance as a vital transportation link between the two continents. Completed in 1973, the Bosphorus Bridge was the first bridge to directly connect Europe and Asia since antiquity. It plays a crucial role in facilitating vehicular traffic, serving as a key transportation route for commuters, tourists, and cargo traveling between the two continents. The bridge spans approximately 1.5 kilometers (nearly 1 mile) in length and has a width that accommodates several lanes of traffic in both directions. Its distinctive feature is its two towers, which stand at a height of around 165 meters (541 feet) above the water level.
Stop 7
Galatasaray Island (known as Galatasaray Adası in Turkish) is a small island located in the Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul, Turkey. This island is notable for its association with the renowned Galatasaray Sports Club, one of Turkey's oldest and most popular sports clubs, particularly known for its football (soccer) team. The island historically served as a training ground and recreational area for the Galatasaray Sports Club. It was primarily used by the club's rowing and swimming teams for training purposes due to its strategic location on the Bosphorus. The island featured sports facilities, including rowing and swimming facilities, and was used by the club for various sporting activities. Additionally, it served as a social and leisure destination for club members and supporters.
Stop 8
Arnavutköy, meaning "Albanian village" in Turkish, is an upscale residential neighborhood situated along the Bosphorus Strait. Historically, it was a fishing village known for its wooden Ottoman mansions (yalıs), picturesque waterfront, and seafood restaurants. Over the years, Arnavutköy has undergone development and gentrification, attracting affluent residents and becoming a sought-after area due to its scenic views, trendy cafes, restaurants, and upscale housing.
Stop 9
"Bebek Bay" may refer to "Bebek," a prestigious and charming neighborhood situated along the Bosphorus in Istanbul, Turkey. It's known for its affluent residential area, scenic waterfront views, and vibrant social life. Bebek is a popular destination offering a picturesque setting with its waterfront cafes, restaurants, and iconic landmarks along the Bosphorus. The area is characterized by its beautiful promenade, where locals and visitors enjoy leisurely walks while taking in the stunning views of the strait and the passing boats. Moreover, Bebek Bay could be a reference to Bebek Bayırı, an area or hill within or close to the Bebek neighborhood. While the term "Bebek Bay" doesn't represent a specific place in Istanbul, the name might be used informally or colloquially to refer to various spots, views, or locations within Bebek or near the Bosphorus.
Stop 10
The Rumeli Fortress, also known as Rumelihisarı in Turkish, is a historic fortress located on the European side of Istanbul, Turkey, on the shores of the Bosphorus Strait. It was built by the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror in 1452, preceding the famous conquest of Constantinople (now Istanbul) in 1453. The fortress was strategically constructed in a short period, taking around four months to complete, as part of Sultan Mehmed II's preparations to besiege and conquer the Byzantine capital. Positioned on a hilltop overlooking the narrowest point of the Bosphorus Strait, Rumeli Fortress was intended to control and secure the waterway, preventing any aid or reinforcements from reaching the city of Constantinople (Byzantium) via the Black Sea. The fortress features massive stone walls, towers, and battlements, designed to withstand attacks and serve as a defensive stronghold. It consists of three main towers and thick walls that encircle an inner courtyard.
Stop 11
The Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, commonly referred to as the FSM Bridge (abbreviated from Fatih Sultan Mehmet Köprüsü in Turkish), is a significant suspension bridge located in Istanbul, Turkey. It spans the Bosphorus Strait and connects the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. Named after the Ottoman Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror (Fatih Sultan Mehmet), the bridge was completed and opened to traffic in 1988. Its construction was aimed at alleviating traffic congestion in Istanbul, providing an alternative route for commuters and travelers between the European and Asian sides of the city. The FSM Bridge is the second bridge to cross the Bosphorus after the Bosphorus Bridge, connecting the neighborhoods of Beykoz on the Asian side to Hisarüstü on the European side. It measures approximately 1,510 meters in length, with towers rising about 165 meters above sea level.
Stop 12
The Küçüksu Pavilion, also known as Küçüksu Palace or Göksu Pavilion, is an elegant and picturesque pavilion located on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus in Istanbul, Turkey. It was constructed during the 19th century during the Ottoman Empire and served as a summer retreat and hunting lodge for Ottoman sultans and their guests. Built between 1856 and 1857, the Küçüksu Pavilion stands out for its exquisite architectural design, blending elements of Ottoman and European styles. It was commissioned by Sultan Abdülmecid I and designed by the architect Nigoğayos Balyan, a member of the renowned Balyan family of architects. The pavilion features a single-story structure with ornate facades, beautifully decorated interiors, and lush gardens surrounding the building. Its interiors are adorned with intricate decorations, colorful tiles, frescoes, and exquisite furnishings, reflecting the opulence of the Ottoman era.
What’s included
- Turkish coffee with Turkish delight served in tradational cups
- Savory pastry
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- Fresh seasanal fruits
- Tea and coffee
Not included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off services (available upon selection)
- Food and beverages, unless clearly stated as included
Meeting and pickup
Meeting Point: Dolmabahçe Mosque - https://maps.app.goo.gl/aFk3tXB51tnggpN46 Our staff will be waiting for you holding a VELENA TRAVEL signboard. We kindly ask all guests to arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the cruise departure time to ensure a smooth boarding process.
Before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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