Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise by Luxury Yacht with Asian Side Stop
4.9 / 5 · 628 traveler reviews
Discover the magic of Istanbul from the water on a captivating Bosphorus cruise between Europe and Asia. Led by a knowledgeable multilingual guide, this journey reveals the city’s rich history, architectural beauty, and vibrant character from a truly unique perspective. This is a small-group cruise on a luxury yacht, designed for travelers seeking comfort, space, and a more exclusive experience away from crowded ferries. Enjoy a relaxing stop on the Asian side in Beylerbeyi or Kanlıca, where you can explore a peaceful coastal neighborhood and experience the authentic rhythm of local life. Sail past world-famous landmarks such as Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, and Maiden’s Tower, along with the elegant districts of Ortakoy and Bebek. Pass beneath the Bosphorus bridges and admire the historic Rumeli Fortress. During this 2.5-hour cruise, unwind, take in panoramic views, and enjoy insightful commentary—an unforgettable way to experience Istanbul.
Your experience
Stop 1
Dolmabahçe Mosque, also called the Bezm-i Alem Valide Sultan Mosque was built along with the Dolmabahce Palace in neo-classical and imperial style and located in the south of Dolmabahce Palace.
Stop 2
Until the 17th century, the area where t the palace is today was one of the bays along the Bosphorus the legendary sailing vessel, ARGOS on which the Argonauts set off to find the Golden Fleece, anchored here.
Stop 3
Ortaköy, once literally "the village in the middle" (orta) of the European Bosphorus shore 8 km (5 miles) northeast of Sultanahmet, is now among Istanbul's coolest, chic-est, most artsy neighborhoods, with trendy boutiques, atmospheric cafés, and bistros, and crowds of young, sophisticated residents and visitors.
Stop 4
Arnavutköy (meaning "Albanian village" in Turkish) is a historic neighborhood in Istanbul, Turkey renowned for its wooden Ottoman mansions and seafood restaurants, as well as the campus of the prestigious Robert College with its historic buildings.
Stop 5
The Galatasaray Islet is a small island on the Bosphorus strait off Kuruçeşme neighborhood in Istanbul, Turkey, which is owned by Galatasaray Sports Club.
Stop 6
Bosphorus Bridge Which was inaugurated on October 29, 1973, on the fiftieth anniversary of the Turkish Republic, has the longest span in Europe and the fourth in the world. This suspension bridge has a total length of 1560 metres (1706 yards) and a width of 33.4 metres (110ft). The span between pylons is 1074 metres (1175 yards) and the clearance above sea level is 64 metres (210ft). The construction of the steel box-girder suspension was carried out by a British-german consortium. The second bridge to link Europe and Asia over the Bosphorus will be completed in 1989 between Emirgan and Kanlica.
Stop 7
Bebek is one of the best neighborhoods in Istanbul. It is by the Bosporus. There are plenty of eateries along the way, most of them are good and reasonably priced. Fish restaurants are great.
Stop 8
Rumelishisari Fortress - (Rumelihisari Castle) At the narrowest point of the Bosphorus stands the Rumelihisarr Fortress, built by Sultan Mehmet, the Conqueror on the European shore. The Sultan himself on the 26th day of March 1452 laid the foundation stone of the Fortress with a view to controlling the passage of the ships through the Bosphorus and using it as a base for his attack on the city. The fortress or castle was built upon the ancient site of Hermaion. It was completed in five months on August 28th 1452. The cannon on the towers could command this narrowest part of the Bosphorus opposite the older fortress of Anadoluhisarr. Darius in 500 BC had thrown a pontoon bridge across the Strait at this point and passed over 700,000 men. To Sultan Mehmet, the Conqueror, it was the key to Constantinople. The design of the walls and the towers display the Prophet's and the Conqueror's name - Muhammet - Mehmet.
Stop 9
The Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, also known as the Second Bosphorus Bridge, is a bridge in Istanbul, Turkey spanning the Bosphorus strait. When completed in 1988, it was the 5th-longest suspension bridge span in the world; today it is the 24th.
Stop 10
Enjoy a relaxing stop in either Beylerbeyi or Kanlıca, where you can step ashore on the Asian side, stroll along the waterfront, explore charming streets, and soak in the peaceful, authentic atmosphere of Istanbul away from the crowds. You can also visit the beautiful gardens of Beylerbeyi Palace.
Stop 11
Beylerbeyi Palace Situated on the Asiatic shore of the Bosphorus between the villages of Kuzguncuk and Cengelköy, the palace was built by Sultan Abdülaziz in 1865. Beylerbeyi Palace seen from the Bosphorus floats like a white vision in a fairy tale. It is the most extravagant royal house of the 19th Century on which millions were spent. It is built completely of marble, surpassing all the Palaces of European Kings. Empress Eugénie, during her visit of 1869 stayed in this palace as well as Czar Nicholas Il of Russia. Edward VIII was a guest in 1936. Stone lionesses recline on marble carpets set in lawns, and swans float and fish swim in the unobtrusive pool where pigeons fly to catch the spray of the fountain upon their wings.
Stop 12
Anadoluhısarı Fortress (Anadoluhisari Castle) On the opposite bank stands the Anadoluhisari Fortress by the Göksu stream. This romantic castle which adorns the Asiatic shore of the Bosphorus was built in 1395 by Sultan Bayazit, the Thunderbolt, and named "Güzelcehisar". Later it was extended by Mehmet, the Conqueror. Today, as the first possession of Turks on the Bosphorus, it serves as the landmark of Turkish rule.
What’s included
- Tour guide
- Hotel transfer (if option selected)
- Turkish delight served with along Turkish coffee
- Bottled water
- Fruit platter
- Tea and coffee
Not included
- Hotel transfers (unless the transfer option is selected)
- Food and beverages (unless otherwise specified)
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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