Istanbul Lunch Cruise - Extended Bosphorus Cruise up to the Black Sea in Istanbul
Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul Lunch Cruise - Extended Bosphorus Cruise up to the Black Sea

Outty Ranking 62 4.5 · 60 traveler reviews4 hoursFrom $100

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September 2026

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Adults

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2

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From, per person$100
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Outty Ranking

62/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.5/5

Based on 60 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Istanbul Lunch Cruise - Extended Bosphorus Cruise up to the Black Sea worth booking?

Istanbul Lunch Cruise - Extended Bosphorus Cruise up to the Black Sea is a 4-hour experience in Istanbul, Turkey, from $100 per person. It scores 62 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice, based on a 4.5/5 rating across 60 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
62 / 100
Rating
4.5/5 (60)
Duration
4 hours
From
$100 per person

Istanbul Lunch Cruise – Extended Bosphorus Cruise up to the Black Sea Enjoy incredible views of Istanbul sailing between two continents on the Bosphorus all the way to the Black Sea as you enjoy delicious two-course lun

What you get

    About this experience

    Istanbul Lunch Cruise – Extended Bosphorus Cruise up to the Black Sea Enjoy incredible views of Istanbul sailing between two continents on the Bosphorus all the way to the Black Sea as you enjoy delicious two-course lunch onboard a lovely boat. Spend a pleasant afternoon exploring the Bosphorus Strait during this spectacular 4-hour Bosphorus lunch cruise. Take in the iconic sights along the way and stop for a visit in the fishing village of Anadolu Kavagi and discover the old fortress remnants on a hill with breath-taking views of Bosphorus and the Black Sea.

    What's included

    Included

    • Hotel pick - up service from Fatih and Beyoglu areas
    • Lunch
    • One soft drink
    • Tea and coffee

    Not included

    • Alcoholic beverages

    What you'll see and do

    1. Bosphorus Strait

      The Bosphorus narrows between Emirgan and Kannlica to 790 metres and between Arnavutköy and Vaniköy to 875 metres. After these points, the parallel between the shores disappears. The narrowest point on the Bosphorus is between Rumelihisar on the European shore and the Meşruta Yali on the Asiatic shore where the width only 698 metres. At the entrance to the Black Sea, the Bosphorus widens and the distance between the European and Asiatic Lighthouses reaches 4.5 kilometres (3 miles). Between Yeniköy and Cubuklu it is 1480 metres, and at the entrance to the Sea of Marmara, between Semsi Pasa at Üsküdar and Salipazari on the European shore, it reaches 1675 metres. The broadest part of the Bosphorus is between Büyükdere and a distance of 3.3 kilometres (2 miles). The slopes of the Bosphorus range between 15 and 200 metres high.

      270 minutes here · Admission included

    2. Dolmabahce Palace

      Dolmabahçe Palace, one of the most fascinating buildings in Istanbul, sits on the most beautiful section of the Bosporus. Although it was built many years ago, the flamboyant appearance of Dolmabahçe Palace is still impressive.

      Pass by without stopping

    3. This former Ottoman palace is now a classic hotel combining refined elegance and spellbinding views with an breath taking pool with views of the Bosphorus.

      Pass by without stopping

    4. Anadolu Kavagi

      Istanbul Lunch Cruise – Extended Bosphorus Cruise up to the Black Sea Enjoy incredible views of Istanbul sailing between two continents on the Bosphorus all the way to the Black Sea as you enjoy delicious two-course lunch onboard a lovely boat. Spend a pleasant afternoon exploring the Bosphorus Strait during this spectacular 4-hour Bosphorus lunch cruise. Take in the iconic sights along the way and stop for a visit in the fishing village of Anadolu Kavagi and discover the old fortress remnants on a hill with breath-taking views of Bosphorus and the Black Sea. Cruise Highlights • Delicious two course lunch with freshly prepared entrees, salads and seasonal fruits • Glace over the castles, palaces and mansions on the Bosphorus Strait • Learn about the rich history of Istanbul from our knowledgeable guide on-board. • Sail to the village of Anadolu Kavagi on the Black Sea coast • Swimming opportunity in the Black Sea at Anadolu Kavagi during summer time What you can expect from this cruise Climb aboard a gorgeous boat and forget your worries as you enjoy a relaxing afternoon cruise down the Bosphorus Strait. Admire the views of beautiful castles, palaces, old mansions and the minarets of Istanbul mosques. During the cruise you will have plenty of time to relax, sit back and indulge in two course lunch that offers a variety of delicious dishes and fresh seasonal fruits. The open air observation deck gives you the perfect place to capture photos. Go for a stroll on deck to soak up the sun and see the many famous sights that line both coastlines, such as Galata Tower, Dolmabahce and Ciragan Palaces and the immense Bosphorus Bridges that connect Asia and Europe, observe districts along the shore. Sail towards the Black Sea, and then make your way to the small coastal town of Anadolu Kavagi. Drop anchor and take a walk in the lush hills of the surrounding area. See the ruins of a medieval fortress and other landmarks before the journey back to Istanbul in the late afternoon. On the way back to Istanbul, glance at many wooden summer pavilions of Ottoman Sultans and pashas on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus. Lunch Menu Cocktail: Spring Rolls (Deep fried rolls with cheese filling) Snacks Hors D’oeuvre Plate Calf Ham Feta Cheese Stuffed Grape Leaves Russian Salad Mashed Feaves Zucchini Hash Browns Carrot Salad With Yogurt Mercimek Köftesi (Lentil Balls) Tomatoes and Cucumber Salad Warm Starters: Spring Balls or (Deep Fried Phyllo Pastry With Pastrami and Tomato Filling) Rose Pastry Main Course Barbecued Meat (Meatballs, Glazed Chicken Beast, Beefsteak) With Tomato Pilaf OR Barbecued Fish (Sea Bass or Sea Bream) With Side Dish Seasonal Salad *** Vegetarian food also available on request Vegetarian Main Course: Grilled or saute vegetables with side dishes of rice and mashed patato Fruit Three kinds of fruits of the season Beverages *** One Soft Beverage *** Complimentary Turkish Tea and Nescafe Inclusions: *** 4-Hours Cruise on pleasant boat *** Two-course full lunch *** Professional and experienced tour guide in English and Spanish *** One soft drink + complimentary tea and nescafe Cruise Timing Schedule Departing from Kabatas Pier 12:30/13.00 - Boarding on the boat 13:00 – Cruise stars 13:00/13:45 – Coctail and snacks served. Journey towards the first and second bridges with our guide's narration of the important buildings 13:45/14:45 Lunch served as the boat sails towards the Black Sea 14:45/16.00 - Visit to the Anadolu Kavagi Village or swim off the boat in a nice bay (swimming possibility only during Summer) 16.00/17:30 - Journey back to Kabatas Pier 17.00 – Cruise ends in Kabatas Pier Days of Operation Everyday All Year Around Good to Know • We cannot wait for late comers or return to the piers. All cruises are on a strict time schedule. • Vegetarian food must be ordered in the special instruction while booking in advance. • Children under 3 are free of charge, children aged between 4 and 8 get 30% discount. • Students with a valid student ID will receive 20% discount. • Swimming break as an option on the summer months (first week of June till third week of September) instead of visiting Anadolu Kavagi village. Either you visit the village or stay on the boat for swimming

      60 minutes here

    5. Bosphorus Bridge

      The Bosphorus Bridge, known officially as the 15 July Martyrs Bridge and unofficially as the First Bridge, is one of the three suspension bridges spanning the Bosphorus strait in Istanbul, Turkey, thus connecting Europe and Asia.

      Pass by without stopping

    6. Rumeli Fortress

      Rumelihisarı or Boğazkesen Castle is a medieval fortress located in Istanbul, Turkey, on a series of hills on the European banks of the Bosphorus. The fortress also lends its name to the immediate neighborhood around it in the city's Sarıyer district.

      Pass by without stopping

    7. Ortakoy

      Ortaköy Mosque, officially the Büyük Mecidiye Camii in Beşiktaş, Istanbul, Turkey, is situated at the waterside of the Ortaköy pier square, one of the most popular locations on the Bosphorus.

      Pass by without stopping

    8. Yavuz Sultan Selim Koprusu

      The Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge is a bridge for rail and motor vehicle transit over the Bosphorus strait, to the north of two existing suspension bridges in Istanbul, Turkey. It was initially named the Third Bosphorus Bridge.

      Pass by without stopping

    9. Anadolu Hisari Fort

      Anadoluhisarı, known historically as Güzelce Hisar is a medieval fortress located in Istanbul, Turkey on the Anatolian side of the Bosporus. The complex is the oldest surviving Turkish architectural structure built in Istanbul, and further gives its name to the neighborhood around it in the city's Beykoz district.

      Pass by without stopping

    10. Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge

      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.

      Pass by without stopping

    11. Kucuksu Pavilion

      Küçüksu Palace or Küçüksu Pavilion, a.k.a. Göksu Pavilion, is a summer palace in Istanbul, Turkey, situated in the Küçüksu neighborhood of Beykoz district on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus between Anadoluhisarı and the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge.

      Pass by without stopping

    12. Kuleli Sahil

      Kuleli Military High School was the oldest military high school in Turkey, located in Çengelköy, Istanbul, on the Asian shore of the Bosphorus strait. It was founded on September 21, 1845, by Ottoman Sultan Abdülmecid I.

      Pass by without stopping

    13. Beylerbeyi Palace

      The Beylerbeyi Palace, Beylerbeyi meaning "Lord of Lords", is located in the Beylerbeyi neighbourhood of Üsküdar district in Istanbul, Turkey at the Asian side of the Bosphorus. An Imperial Ottoman summer residence built in the 1860s, it is now situated immediately north of the 1973 Bosphorus Bridge.

      Pass by without stopping

    14. TopkapI Palace

      The Topkapı Palace, or the Seraglio, is a large museum in Istanbul, Turkey. In the 15th century, it served as the main residence and administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans. Construction began in 1459, ordered by Mehmed the Conqueror, six years after the conquest of Constantinople.

      Pass by without stopping

    15. Galata Koprusu

      The Galata Bridge is a bridge that spans the Golden Horn in Istanbul, Turkey. From the end of the 19th century in particular, the bridge has featured in Turkish literature, theater, poetry and novels.

      Pass by without stopping

    16. Galata Tower

      The Galata Tower — called Christea Turris by the Genoese — is a medieval stone tower in the Galata/Karaköy quarter of Istanbul, Turkey, just to the north of the Golden Horn's junction with the Bosphoru

      Pass by without stopping

    17. KIz Kulesi

      The Maiden's Tower, also known as Leander's Tower since the medieval Byzantine period, is a tower lying on a small islet located at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus strait 200 m from the coast of Üsküdar in Istanbul, Turkey.

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Istanbul

    * Meeting Point is right across from KABATAS Tram Station. * Please use T1 Tram Line to get to the meeting point to avoid traffic jam. * Cross the traffic lights and you will see us in front of KABATAS VAPUR ISKELESI, we will be holding a board: "VELENA TRAVEL" in front of KABATAS VAPUR ISKELESI

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 45 minutes before departure.

    Ends at

    * Meeting Point is right across from KABATAS Tram Station. * Please use T1 Tram Line to get to the meeting point to avoid traffic jam. * Cross the traffic lights and you will see us in front of KABATAS VAPUR ISKELESI, we will be holding a board: "VELENA TRAVEL" in front of KABATAS VAPUR ISKELESI

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Wed, Fri, Sun
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Bosphorus Cruise Tours Istanbul

    Know before you go

    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Istanbul Lunch Cruise - Extended Bosphorus Cruise up to the Black Sea in Istanbul, photo 2Bosphorus and Black Sea Cruise with LunchIstanbul Lunch Cruise - Extended Bosphorus Cruise up to the Black Sea in Istanbul, photo 4Bosphorus and Black Sea Cruise with LunchIstanbul Lunch Cruise - Extended Bosphorus Cruise up to the Black Sea in Istanbul, photo 6Bosphorus and Black Sea Cruise with Lunch

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 60 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Food and drink

    5 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    The guide

    4 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    3 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Value for money

    3 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Photo opportunities

    2 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Pace and timing

    2 mentions

    Several reviewers found the schedule tight or the day long.

    Traveler reviews

    60 verified traveler reviews for Istanbul Lunch Cruise - Extended Bosphorus Cruise up to the Black Sea. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    45
    4 star
    7
    3 star
    3
    2 star
    2
    1 star
    3
    Sort
    Kerry_T · May 2026

    The tour was great...

    The tour was great fabulous day on the Bosphorus River. Lunch in a fishing village on the Asian side. The tour guide was friendly and knowledgeable. I would recommend this tour highly.

    Response from the operator: Thank you very much for your wonderful review. We are delighted to hear that you had a fabulous day on the Bosphorus and enjoyed the lunch in the fishing village on the Asian side. It is also great to know that our guide was friendly and knowledgeable throughout the tour. Your recommendation means a lot to us. Thank you again for joining us, and we hope to welcome you back for another memorable experience in Istanbul.

    via Viator

    S26QVrebeccam · October 2025

    Don't recommend this tour company

    We had this trip scheduled for several months and the morning of the cruise the tour company cancelled because of wind. This was not true as every other boat was still running that day and we did get on another boat for a similar trip later in the evening but had to change all our other plans. It seems as if the company chose to cancel because they did not book enough people to make the cruise worthwhile to run. If you plan your vacations out DO NOT BOOK WITH THIS COMPANY.

    Response from the operator: Hi, Thank you for sharing your feedback. We truly regret that your cruise had to be cancelled on the morning of your trip. Please allow us to clarify: The tour you booked was a Black Sea Cruise, which goes beyond the Bosphorus into open waters. On that day, weather and marine forecasts indicated high winds and rough sea conditions in the Black Sea, making it unsafe for our yacht to sail there. For the safety of our guests and crew, we were obligated to cancel. Other boats you may have seen operating were Bosphorus-only tours, which run inside the sheltered channel and are not affected in the same way. We understand this was disappointing after your plans, and we are sorry for the inconvenience caused. However, guest safety is always our first priority, and we could not compromise it. We hope to welcome you again in the future under better conditions to provide the safe and enjoyable experience we are known for.

    via Tripadvisor

    Proudsthaussie_2 · June 2025

    A Great Day On The Waters of Istanbul

    The cruisexwas amazing with a very good guide who gave an interesting talk about the water front of Istanbul. There was an opportunity for a swim, although the water was too cold for me. But, great fun for others. Pods of dolphins followed the boat. The boat was very luxurious, the crew were very friendly and the nibbles on board were very tasty. The village restaurant food was good value for money and service was friendly. The village is worth a walk around.

    via Tripadvisor

    Edwin_B · May 2025

    A good standard for Istanbul on the water

    It was our first time in Istanbul and this was recommended. There are many options to choose from. This one worked for us.

    via Viator

    jaimeplana · November 2024

    Cancelled by operator

    They cancelled last minute citing weather but clear day. They did say would return the payment and we are still waiting for that.

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    4 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Wed, Fri, Sun
    Price range
    $100 to $150
    Hotel pickup
    Available for selected locations
    Booked in 30 days
    21
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Why this scores 62

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)68
    Review evidence (18% weight)63
    Booking momentum (14% weight)57
    Value for money (12% weight)34
    Listing quality (10% weight)77
    Local standing (8% weight)32
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Istanbul Lunch Cruise - Extended Bosphorus Cruise up to the Black Sea: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Istanbul.

    How much does Istanbul Lunch Cruise - Extended Bosphorus Cruise up to the Black Sea cost?

    +

    Prices start at $100 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 Lunch Cruise - Extended Bosphorus Cruise up to the Black Sea take?

    +

    Plan for about 4 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 Lunch Cruise - Extended Bosphorus Cruise up to the Black Sea worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 62 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.5/5 across 60 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Istanbul, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Istanbul Lunch Cruise - Extended Bosphorus Cruise up to the Black Sea?

    +

    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 Lunch Cruise - Extended Bosphorus Cruise up to the Black Sea suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 4-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Istanbul Lunch Cruise - Extended Bosphorus Cruise up to the Black Sea?

    +

    Around 21 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?

    +

    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 4-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Istanbul Lunch Cruise - Extended Bosphorus Cruise up to the Black Sea start and how do I get there?

    +

    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?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Istanbul experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Best of Istanbul 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour, Istanbul Luxury Bosphorus Yacht Cruise with Asian Side Stop, ISTANBUL BEST: Iconic Landmarks Full Day PRIVATE Guided City 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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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.

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