Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise by Luxury Yacht
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 1,268 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise by Luxury Yacht worth booking?
Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise by Luxury Yacht is a 2.5-hour experience in Istanbul, Turkey, from $69 per person. It scores 91 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “90+ Club”, based on a 5/5 rating across 1,268 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing. It sits in the Outty 90+ Club, the top tier of everything we rank.
- Outty Ranking
- 91 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (1,268)
- Duration
- 2.5 hours
- From
- $69 per person
Sail on board an elegant yacht that adds a touch of luxury to the fun. Cruise over the Bosphorus Strait to gaze out over the sprawling urban landscapes of the city, as you watch the sunset over the old city, Sultanahmet. Taking a small-group cruise, this is the most stylish and unique way to discover the magic of Istanbul Bosphorus Strait with its breathtaking views. Watch the sun set into the Bosphorus Strait on an evening cruise, in a double-decker luxury yacht that makes for a smoother, more comfortable ride. The departure time is tailored to the sunset so you'll see both European and Asian coasts at their most scenic, as you pass sea-side villas, palaces, castles, and sailing ships that come out to catch the evening light. Listen to the interesting stories narrated by our professional tour guide and simply enjoy views of Istanbul at sunset, a totally magical ride all around the Bosphorus combining daytime, sunset time, and nighttime in one cruise.
What you get
About this experience
Sail on board an elegant yacht that adds a touch of luxury to the fun. Cruise over the Bosphorus Strait to gaze out over the sprawling urban landscapes of the city, as you watch the sunset over the old city, Sultanahmet. Taking a small-group cruise, this is the most stylish and unique way to discover the magic of Istanbul Bosphorus Strait with its breathtaking views. Watch the sun set into the Bosphorus Strait on an evening cruise, in a double-decker luxury yacht that makes for a smoother, more comfortable ride. The departure time is tailored to the sunset so you'll see both European and Asian coasts at their most scenic, as you pass sea-side villas, palaces, castles, and sailing ships that come out to catch the evening light. Listen to the interesting stories narrated by our professional tour guide and simply enjoy views of Istanbul at sunset, a totally magical ride all around the Bosphorus combining daytime, sunset time, and nighttime in one cruise.
What's included
Included
- Hotel pick - up & drop off
- Light snacks
- Bottled water
- Turkish baklava and small cookies
- Fresh seasonal fruits
- Fresh fruit juice during winter period and homemade lemanode during summer period
- Tea and coffee
Not included
- Alcoholic drinks
What you'll see and do
Bosphorus Strait
The Bosphorus, also known as the Istanbul Strait, is a narrow waterway that connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara, separating the continents of Europe and Asia. It is located in Istanbul, Turkey and serves as a vital shipping route, as well as a popular tourist attraction. The Bosphorus stretches approximately 31 kilometers (19 miles) in length and varies in width from about 700 meters (2,300 feet) to 3.7 kilometers (2.3 miles). It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with picturesque views of the surrounding hills and historic landmarks.
150 minutes here
Dolmabahce Mosque
The Dolmabahçe Mosque, also known as the Dolmabahçe Camii in Turkish, is a prominent mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey. It is situated on the European side of the city, near the Dolmabahçe Palace, which served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Pass by without stopping
Dolmabahce Palace
Dolmabahçe Palace is a magnificent historical palace located on the European side of Istanbul, Turkey. It is situated on the shores of the Bosphorus Strait and is one of the most famous landmarks in the city. The palace served as the main administrative center and the residence of the Ottoman sultans in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Pass by without stopping
Çırağan Palace, also known as Çırağan Sarayı in Turkish, is a historical palace located on the European side of Istanbul, Turkey. It is situated on the shores of the Bosphorus Strait in the Beşiktaş district. The palace is considered one of the most luxurious and prestigious hotels in Istanbul.
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Ortakoy
Ortaköy is a neighborhood located in the Beşiktaş district of Istanbul, Turkey. It is situated on the European side of the city, near the Bosphorus Strait. Ortaköy is known for its vibrant atmosphere, historical landmarks, and stunning views of the Bosphorus.
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Buyuk Mecidiye Camii
The Ortaköy Mosque, also known as the Büyük Mecidiye Mosque, is an iconic mosque located in the Ortaköy neighborhood of Istanbul, Turkey. It is situated on the European side of the Bosphorus Strait, near the Bosphorus Bridge (also known as the 15 July Martyrs Bridge).
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Bosphorus Bridge
The Bosphorus Bridge, officially known as the 15 July Martyrs Bridge (Turkish: 15 Temmuz Şehitler Köprüsü), is one of the iconic landmarks of Istanbul, Turkey. It spans the Bosphorus Strait, connecting the European and Asian sides of the city.
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Galatasaray Island
Galatasaray Island, also known as Suada, is a small island located in the Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul, Turkey. It is situated between the neighborhoods of Ortaköy and Kuruçeşme, on the European side of Istanbul.
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Arnavutkoy
Arnavutköy is a district located on the European side of Istanbul, Turkey. It is situated along the northern shoreline of the Bosporus Strait. Arnavutköy means "Albanian village" in Turkish, although the district's population today consists of various ethnicities.
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Bebek Sahili
Bebek District is a well-known neighborhood located in Istanbul, Turkey. Situated on the European side of the city, Bebek is part of the larger Beşiktaş municipality. It is a picturesque and affluent area that stretches along the Bosphorus coastline.
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Rumeli Fortress
The Rumeli Fortress, also known as Rumeli Hisarı in Turkish, is a historical fortress located on the European side of Istanbul, Turkey. It stands on a hill overlooking the Bosphorus Strait, just north of the neighborhood of Beşiktaş.
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Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge
The FSM Bridge, also known as the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, is a prominent suspension bridge in Istanbul, Turkey. It spans the Bosporus Strait and connects the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.
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Kanlica Meydani
Kanlıca is a neighborhood located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Turkey, along the shores of the Bosphorus Strait. It is known for its historical wooden houses, scenic waterfront, and popular yogurt shops. Kanlıca is famous for its traditional yogurt, called "Kanlıca Yoğurdu" in Turkish. This yogurt is made using a centuries-old recipe and is known for its creamy texture and slightly sour taste. Many visitors come to Kanlıca specifically to enjoy a serving of this delicious yogurt topped with powdered sugar.
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Anadolu Hisari
Anadolu Hisarı, also known as Anatolian Fortress, is a medieval fortress located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Turkey. It stands on a hilltop overlooking the Bosphorus Strait, north of the neighborhood of Beykoz. Anadolu Hisarı was built by the Ottoman Sultan Bayezid I in 1395 as part of his preparations for the siege of Constantinople. The fortress played a strategic role in controlling the Bosphorus and defending against potential attacks from the north.
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Kucuksu Pavilion
Küçüksu Pavilion, also known as Küçüksu Kasrı or Göksu Pavilion, is a charming Ottoman-era pavilion located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Turkey. It is situated on the shores of the Bosphorus Strait in the Küçüksu neighborhood, between the neighborhoods of Beykoz and Anadoluhisarı.
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Vanikoy Camii
The Vaniköy Mosque, also known as Vaniköy Camii in Turkish, is a historical mosque located in the Vaniköy neighborhood on the Asian side of Istanbul, Turkey. It is situated near the Bosphorus Strait, close to the neighborhoods of Beylerbeyi and Üsküdar.
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Kuleli Sahil
Kuleli Military High School, also known as Kuleli Askeri Lisesi in Turkish, is a prestigious military high school located in the Çengelköy neighborhood of Istanbul, Turkey. It is situated on the Asian side of Istanbul, along the shores of the Bosphorus Strait.
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Beylerbeyi Palace
The Beylerbeyi Palace, also known as Beylerbeyi Sarayı in Turkish, is an exquisite 19th-century palace located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Turkey. It is situated in the Beylerbeyi neighborhood, along the shores of the Bosphorus Strait.
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Kuzguncuk Sahili
Kuzguncuk is a historic neighborhood located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Turkey. It is situated on the shores of the Bosphorus Strait, between the neighborhoods of Üsküdar and Beylerbeyi.
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Uskudar
Üsküdar, historically known as Scutari, is a vibrant district located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Turkey. Situated on the shores of the Bosphorus Strait, across from the European side of the city, Üsküdar is one of the oldest and most culturally significant areas of Istanbul.
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KIz Kulesi
The Maiden's Tower, also known as Kız Kulesi in Turkish, is a famous historical tower located on a small islet at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul, Turkey. It is situated near the Üsküdar neighborhood on the Asian side of the city. The exact origins of the Maiden's Tower are uncertain, but it is believed to have been built in its initial form during the Byzantine era, around the 5th century. Over the centuries, it underwent various reconstructions and additions. The tower has served different purposes throughout history, including a lighthouse, a defense fortification, and a quarantine station.
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TopkapI Palace
Topkapi Palace, known as Topkapı Sarayı in Turkish, is a grand and historic palace complex located in the Sultanahmet neighborhood of Istanbul, Turkey. It served as the primary residence and administrative center of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years.
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Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
Hagia Sophia, also known as Ayasofya in Turkish, is a historic and iconic monument located in Istanbul, Turkey. Originally built as a Byzantine cathedral in the 6th century, it later served as an imperial mosque during the Ottoman Empire and is now a museum. Hagia Sophia is renowned for its architectural grandeur and historical significance. It was commissioned by Emperor Justinian I and completed in 537 AD. The building is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, characterized by its massive dome, intricate mosaics, and a combination of Eastern and Western influences.
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Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque, known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque or Sultanahmet Mosque in Turkish, is a stunning historic mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey. It is situated in the Sultanahmet neighborhood, adjacent to the Hagia Sophia and facing the Hippodrome. Commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I and constructed between 1609 and 1616, the Blue Mosque is an architectural masterpiece of the Ottoman era. It was designed by the renowned architect Sedefkar Mehmed Ağa, incorporating elements of both Byzantine and Islamic architectural styles.
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Galata Koprusu
The Galata Bridge, known as Galata Köprüsü in Turkish, is a prominent landmark in Istanbul, Turkey. It spans the Golden Horn, a natural harbor and estuary separating the historic peninsula of Istanbul from the rest of the city.
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Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Istanbul
Meeting Point: KABATAŞ TRANSFER CENTER (opposite Kabataş Tram Station) Follow the signs for KABATAŞ - PRINCES' ISLANDS LINE. Our team will be holding a sign with our company name, VELENA TRAVEL. We kindly request our guests to arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the cruise departure time.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 45 minutes before departure.
Ends at
Meeting Point: KABATAŞ TRANSFER CENTER (opposite Kabataş Tram Station) Follow the signs for KABATAŞ - PRINCES' ISLANDS LINE. Our team will be holding a sign with our company name, VELENA TRAVEL. We kindly request our guests to arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the cruise departure time.
Options you can book
Without Hotel Transfer
Bosphorus Sunset: An Enchanting Yacht Cruise in Istanbul
Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 30 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Velena Travel
Know 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
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 1,264 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
4 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
1,264 verified traveler reviews for Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise by Luxury Yacht. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great experience, thank you!!
Best decision we made during our short stay in Istanbul. We wanted a scenic tour but were wary of tourist traps - this cruise was exactly what we were looking for, and well worth the price of admission. Absolutely beautiful views and our guide was so friendly!! 100% worth it!!
via Tripadvisor
Great, smaller, high end cruise
Excellent communication after booking/prior to cruise. Lovely, friendly staff. Great snacks that are handed out to you when sitting. Blankets provided if cold. Commentary could’ve been a bit more extensive. Seemed to talk about the building/site after we’d started passing it. Would recommend, not too many people on board which made for a pleasant experience.
via Tripadvisor
Amazing!
Amazing-don’t leave Istanbul wothout this tour!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review and enthusiastic recommendation! We are delighted to hear that you had such an amazing experience with us. It means a lot to know that our Bosphorus cruise was a highlight of your visit to Istanbul. We hope to welcome you aboard again on your next trip!
via Tripadvisor
Best boat tour!!
Absolutely amazing!! The tour guide was very knowledgeable and funny! All the staff were pleasant! Highly recommended!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your fantastic review and kind recommendation! We are thrilled to hear that you had an amazing experience with us. It is wonderful to know that you enjoyed our guide's knowledge and sense of humor, as well as the friendliness of our crew. Your lovely feedback means a lot to our entire team! We hope to welcome you aboard again for another memorable Bosphorus cruise.
via Tripadvisor
Great experience, thank you guide!
Great experience, the guide knows a lot about turkish history.
Response from the operator: Thank you very much for your kind review! We are delighted to hear that you had a great experience and enjoyed learning about Turkish history from our knowledgeable guide. Sharing Istanbul's fascinating history and rich cultural heritage is one of the highlights of our tours. We truly appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you aboard again on your next visit to Istanbul!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 2.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $69 to $72
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 444
- Verdict
- 90+ Club
Who runs this experience
Operated by Velena Travel, who run 5 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 59.7 and 1 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Velena Travel runsWhy this scores 91
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise by Luxury Yacht: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Istanbul.
How much does Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise by Luxury Yacht cost?
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Prices start at $69 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Istanbul usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise by Luxury Yacht take?
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Plan for about 2.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Istanbul is not rushed.
Is Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise by Luxury Yacht worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 91 out of 100, which we label "90+ Club". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 1,268 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Istanbul, and how flexible the cancellation terms are. Scoring 90 or above puts it in the Outty 90+ Club, the top tier of everything we rank.
Can I cancel or reschedule Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise by Luxury Yacht?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise by Luxury Yacht suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise by Luxury Yacht?
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Around 444 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Istanbul can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Istanbul and add a light layer if any part of the 2.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise by Luxury Yacht start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Istanbul within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Istanbul?
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On Outty we rank every Istanbul experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Princes Islands Blue Journey from Old City Istanbul, Famous Istanbul Pub Crawl #1 Nightlife Experience, Best of Istanbul 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Istanbul?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Istanbul?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise by Luxury Yacht?
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Included: Hotel pick - up & drop off; Light snacks; Bottled water; Turkish baklava and small cookies; and Fresh seasonal fruits. Not included: Alcoholic drinks. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise by Luxury Yacht include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 1951 listed pickup locations in and around Istanbul. Be ready about 45 minutes before the start time.
What languages is Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise by Luxury Yacht offered in?
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It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise by Luxury Yacht?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise by Luxury Yacht wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise by Luxury Yacht if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise by Luxury Yacht?
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Across 1,268 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise by Luxury Yacht?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including Without Hotel Transfer, Bosphorus Sunset: An Enchanting Yacht Cruise in Istanbul. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
Ready to lock in your spot?
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