
Istanbul Private Yacht Experience with Swimming Option
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 333 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Istanbul Private Yacht Experience with Swimming Option worth booking?
Istanbul Private Yacht Experience with Swimming Option is a 2-hour experience in Istanbul, Turkey, from $400 per person. It scores 81 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 5/5 rating across 333 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 81 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (333)
- Duration
- 2 hours
- From
- $400 per person
Experience a private luxury yacht cruise along the Bosphorus, departing from Kabataş Pier. Sail between the European and Asian shores, passing iconic landmarks. Enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks while our professional guide shares the rich history and stories of Istanbul. The cruise ends back at Kabataş Pier, where your unforgettable journey began. For the Swimming Tour option, guests can choose between Poyrazköy – Beykoz (Black Sea Area) or the Princes’ Islands (Adalar). 6-hour private yacht cruise to the Princes’ Islands (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM) without a guide, with free time for swimming and relaxation. Please bring your own swimwear, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and any personal or children’s swimming equipment. For everyone’s comfort, please follow basic hygiene rules. This activity is not suitable for guests who cannot swim.
What you get
About this experience
Experience a private luxury yacht cruise along the Bosphorus, departing from Kabataş Pier. Sail between the European and Asian shores, passing iconic landmarks. Enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks while our professional guide shares the rich history and stories of Istanbul. The cruise ends back at Kabataş Pier, where your unforgettable journey began. For the Swimming Tour option, guests can choose between Poyrazköy – Beykoz (Black Sea Area) or the Princes’ Islands (Adalar). 6-hour private yacht cruise to the Princes’ Islands (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM) without a guide, with free time for swimming and relaxation. Please bring your own swimwear, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and any personal or children’s swimming equipment. For everyone’s comfort, please follow basic hygiene rules. This activity is not suitable for guests who cannot swim.
What's included
Included
- Restroom on the boat
- Daily prepared fresh season fruits plate and delicious cookies and baklava served aboard
- Complimentary drinks, homemade lemonade with fresh mint, water, tea and coffee
- 2 Hours Luxury Yacht Cruise
Not included
- Alcoholic beverages
- Transfer services
What you'll see and do
Bosphorus Strait
The Bosphorus, or Bosporus with its historical name, is a strait and international waterway that separates the continents of Asia and Europe and connects the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea. The Bosphorus generally stretches in the northeast-southwest direction and divides the city of Istanbul into the European Side and the Anatolian Side. The Bosphorus is a gateway connecting Asia and Europe and is 30 kilometers long. It is the point that connects the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara. The depth of the Bosphorus is 60 meters on average, and the deepest point reaches up to 120 meters. Its width is very variable due to its distance from the shore, and its widest point is 3500 meters. You are going to pass by Dolmabahce Palace, Rumeli Fortress, Beylerbeyi Palace, and many other waterside attractions.
Pass by without stopping
Dolmabahce Palace
Dolmabahçe Palace is an Ottoman palace located on an area of 250.000 m² in Istanbul, Beşiktaş, between Dolmabahçe Street stretching from Kabataş to Beşiktaş and the Bosphorus. It is located on the left bank at the entrance to the Bosphorus from the Sea of Marmara, opposite Uskudar and Kuzguncuk.
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The Cıragan Palace was commissioned by Sultan Abdulaziz and designed by the architect Sarkis Balyan. It is located in the place of a former wooden summer palace built by Selim Ill in 1800. In the course of the palace's construction the wooden structure and the nearby Besiktas Mevlevihane were destroyed. Cıragan's construction was completed in 1871. The palace is made of marble and is spread out over a total area of 80,000 square meters. After Abdelaziz was deposed, he was imprisoned here for years together with his family. After Murat V was deposed, he was also imprisoned here in a similar fashion for 29 years with his family. After the declaration of the Second Constitutional Monarchy in 1908, the palace was used as the House of Parliament, however it was damaged by fire in 1910. The palace grounds were transferred to the Besiktas Sports Club and were used for some time as the Seref Stadium. Toward the beginning of the 1990's the palace was restored and reopened as a luxury hotel.
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Ortakoy
Ortakoy is a neighborhood and district in the district of Beşiktas, on the European side of the Bosphorus. Ortakoy district, which consists of Ortakoy and Mecidiye districts, is a settlement established on the slopes along the valley opening to the coast. The northern border of the district, which is surrounded by Kurucesme, Ulus, Levazım, Balmumcu and Yildiz districts, is Defterdarburnu.
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Bosphorus Bridge
The feet of the Bosphorus Bridge, one of the two suspension bridges on the Bosphorus, are located in Ortaköy on the European side and in Beylerbeyi on the Anatolian side. The Bosphorus Bridge, the first bridge built on the Bosphorus, provides access between the two sides of the city, together with the later Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge and the ferries operating on the Bosphorus.
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Bebek Park
Bebek is a historic Istanbul neighborhood, located on the European shores of the Bosporus, surrounded by Arnavutkoy, Etiler and Rumeli Hisari. The direct translation of the word Bebek is baby which is a reference to the neighborhood's attractive positioning on the Bosphorus. A popular residential district since the Ottoman rule, Bebek's population reflects the diverse society of the time. Today with its historical buildings such as Bogazici University and waterside mansions, with it's beautiful Bosphorus view and fancy restaurants.
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Rumeli Fortress
Located in Sariyer, Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisari) was constructed directly across from the Anadolu Hisari (the Anatolian Fortress). Construction began in 1453 at the order of Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror placing the fortress at the narrowest point of the Bosphorus. The construction was completed in the short span of three months. Before the conquest of Istanbul, it was used to protect against naval attacks. After the conquest it was used to as an inspection point for maritime traffic on the Bosphorus.
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Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge
Istanbul's second bridge spanning the Bosphorus, the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge (Fatih Sultan Mehmet Koprusu) was built between Kavacik and Hisarustu. Construction began in 1986 and the bridge opened on the 3rd of July 1988. The Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge is the 14th largest steel suspension bridge in the world.
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Anadolu Hisari Fort
The Anatolian Fortress (Anadolu Hisari) is located in in Beykoz (on the Asian Side), at the narrowest point of the Bosphorus. It was built in 1395 by Beyazit I and is made up of a citadel and its exterior castle walls. After the conquest of Istanbul, it lost much of its strategic importance and was converted into a military hospital. Over time the area around the castle became settled. Today waterfront houses and old mansions are dispersed among the castle's ruins. During restoration work which lasted from 1991-1993 it was converted into a museum however it is not open to the public. Today, Anadolu Hisari is an open-air museum but only outer walls can be visited, and the road passes just through it.
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Kucuksu Pavilion
The Kucuk Su Palace, located on the Bosphorus coast road between Uskudar and Beykoz, is a small Ottoman summer palace ordered by the Ottoman Sultan Abdulmecit. The palace was designed by the famous architect of the time, Nikogos Balyan. With its excellent view of the Bosphorus, Kucuksu attracted many Sultans during the Ottoman period who used the palace for relaxation. Because of the fine quality of furniture, paintings, carpets and the delicacy in details the small palace was opened as a museum during the Republican period.
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Beylerbeyi Palace
The Beylerbeyi Palace (It means -Lord of Lords") is an Ottoman summer palace complex built in the 1860's on the shores of the Bosphorus. Today it lies right under the Bosphorus bridge. The building was designed by the well-known architect Sarkis Balyan and it combines elements of renaissance, baroque and other styles from both the East and West. The main building of the complex is a two-store construction, made of stone, on a high basement. The building was constructed on a land of about 2,500 square meters sits on a rectangular floor area. The South side of the Palace was organized as Imperial Mabeyn and The North side as Valide Sultan's Apartment. There is total 6 halls, 24 rooms, 1 hamam and 1 bathroom at two stores.
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KIz Kulesi
The Maiden's Tower (Kiz Kulesi) is a distinctive feature of the Bosporus skyline. Built on a tiny island located about 200m from the shore of Uskudar, the tower is the main subject to many legends.
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TopkapI Palace
Most iconic palace of Türkiye
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Galata Koprusu
The history of the Galata Bridge (Galata Koprusu), one of Istanbul's most exciting spots, begins in 1845. The bridge, which spans the two sides of the Golden Horn, has gone through many changes over the years. Most recently the bridge was damaged by fire in 1992 and a new bridge was built in its place. The beloved old bridge was moved to Halic. The Galata Bridge is an important symbol of Istanbul and has an important place in the daily life of the city, as well as in its literature and popular culture. With its restaurants, cafes and hookah lounges below and the tramway and pedestrian traffic passing above it offers a splendid view of the city, particularly in the evening.
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Galataport
New pier for cruise ships also using for open mall
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Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Istanbul
Meeting point
Istanbul
We will meet in front of the gas station KADOIL next to Kabataş Pier.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
We will finish at Kabatas Pier or regarding your request we can finish at Kuruçeşme Park Pier
Options you can book
Swimming Bosphorus Tour 6Hours
6 Hours without guide Starting point: River Yat, Marina, Kuruçeşme, 34345 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye
Private Cruise without guide
Private Cruise with Tour Guide
English Tour Guide
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Bosphorus Tour Organisations
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Not recommended for travelers with vertigo and seasickness
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 333 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
2 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
333 verified traveler reviews for Istanbul Private Yacht Experience with Swimming Option. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Unforgettable Yacht Experience in Istanbul 🛥️✨
Amazing yacht experience in Istanbul with Batoul! 🛥️✨ Everything was perfect—the views, the atmosphere, and the service. Such a beautiful and unforgettable experience. Highly recommended! 🤍
Response from the operator: Thank you for your kind words :) We were very pleased to host you and hope to see you again soon.
via Tripadvisor
Amazing🤩
Amazing !!! Special thanks for batool🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩!!!
Response from the operator: Thank you for your kind words :) We were very pleased to host you and hope to see you again soon.
via Tripadvisor
Fabulous cruise
Fabulous end to my three days in Istanbul. Relaxing informative, very friendly, helpful staff.
Response from the operator: Thank you for your kind words :) We were very pleased to host you and hope to see you again soon.
via Tripadvisor
Good experience
Nice people, well organised, nice trip, Nice experienxe
Response from the operator: Thank you for your kind words :) We were very pleased to host you and hope to see you again soon.
via Tripadvisor
Fun, amazing
Very good experience. Would do It again.
Response from the operator: Thank you for your kind words :) We were very pleased to host you and hope to see you again soon.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 2 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $400 to $1,160
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 117
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by Bosphorus Tour Organisations, who run 5 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 73.7 and 1 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Bosphorus Tour Organisations runsWhy this scores 81
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Istanbul Private Yacht Experience with Swimming Option: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Istanbul.
How much does Istanbul Private Yacht Experience with Swimming Option cost?
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Prices start at $400 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 Private Yacht Experience with Swimming Option take?
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Plan for about 2 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 Private Yacht Experience with Swimming Option worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 81 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 333 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 Private Yacht Experience with Swimming Option?
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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 Private Yacht Experience with Swimming Option suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Istanbul Private Yacht Experience with Swimming Option?
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Around 117 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-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Istanbul Private Yacht Experience with Swimming Option 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 Private Yacht Experience with Swimming Option?
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Included: Restroom on the boat; Daily prepared fresh season fruits plate and delicious cookies and baklava served aboard; Complimentary drinks, homemade lemonade with fresh mint, water, tea and coffee; and 2 Hours Luxury Yacht Cruise. Not included: Alcoholic beverages; and Transfer services. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Istanbul Private Yacht Experience with Swimming Option?
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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 Private Yacht Experience with Swimming Option wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Istanbul Private Yacht Experience with Swimming Option 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 Private Yacht Experience with Swimming Option?
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Across 333 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 Private Yacht Experience with Swimming Option?
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There are 3 options to choose from, including Swimming Bosphorus Tour 6Hours, Private Cruise without guide, Private Cruise with Tour Guide. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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