Private Bosphorus Lunch Cruise on a Luxury Yacht
Traveler rating
4.0/5
Based on 2 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Private Bosphorus Lunch Cruise on a Luxury Yacht worth booking?
Private Bosphorus Lunch Cruise on a Luxury Yacht is a 2-hour experience in Istanbul, Turkey, from €700 per person. It scores 47 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4/5 rating across 2 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 47 / 100
- Rating
- 4/5 (2)
- Duration
- 2 hours
- From
- €700 per person
Your journey begins at a central pier on the European side, where you’ll be welcomed aboard a beautifully appointed private yacht. As the yacht glides along the Bosphorus, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks including Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Bosphorus Bridge, and the Rumeli Fortress. A freshly prepared lunch will be served onboard, featuring a selection of Turkish and Mediterranean dishes made with seasonal ingredients. As you dine al fresco or in the comfort of the indoor salon, take in the unique beauty of the city where Europe meets Asia. With plenty of photo opportunities, peaceful surroundings, and attentive service, this cruise is the perfect blend of sightseeing and relaxation.
What you get
About this experience
Your journey begins at a central pier on the European side, where you’ll be welcomed aboard a beautifully appointed private yacht. As the yacht glides along the Bosphorus, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks including Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Bosphorus Bridge, and the Rumeli Fortress. A freshly prepared lunch will be served onboard, featuring a selection of Turkish and Mediterranean dishes made with seasonal ingredients. As you dine al fresco or in the comfort of the indoor salon, take in the unique beauty of the city where Europe meets Asia. With plenty of photo opportunities, peaceful surroundings, and attentive service, this cruise is the perfect blend of sightseeing and relaxation.
What's included
Included
- Complimentary onboard Wi-Fi
- All Fees and Taxes
- Professional captain and crew
- Lunch
- Private use of a luxury yacht for 2 hours
- Tea, coffee, and water
Not included
- Alcoholic beverages
- Private transportation
- Personal expenses and tips
- Tour guide (can be arranged upon request)
What you'll see and do
Bosphorus Strait
The Bosphorus is a narrow strait located in Istanbul, Turkey, that connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. It separates the European side of Istanbul from its Asian side and is an important waterway for international maritime trade. The Bosphorus is approximately 31 kilometers (19 miles) long and varies in width from about 700 meters (2,300 feet) to 3,700 meters (12,100 feet). The Bosphorus has significant historical and cultural importance, as it has been a strategic location for many civilizations throughout history. It has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, including the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. The strait is dotted with numerous landmarks, such as the iconic Maiden's Tower (Kız Kulesi) and the Dolmabahçe Palace.
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Rumeli Fortress
The Rumeli Fortress is a massive structure with three main towers and several smaller towers connected by thick walls. It covers a significant area and offers panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the surrounding landscape. Inside the fortress, you can explore the towers, walls, and open courtyards, which were once used for military purposes. Today, the Rumeli Fortress is a popular tourist attraction and also hosts cultural events and concerts during the summer months. Visitors can walk along its walls, enjoy the views, and learn about its historical significance. It is a fascinating historical site that offers insights into the military architecture and strategies of the Ottoman Empire.
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Bosphorus Bridge
The Bosphorus Bridge has become an important symbol of Istanbul and a significant transportation route. It not only facilitates the movement of vehicles but also offers breathtaking views of the Bosphorus Strait and the cityscape. The bridge has undergone maintenance and renovation works over the years to ensure its safety and structural integrity. It has become an iconic symbol of Istanbul's skyline and is often featured in photographs, postcards, and movies set in the city.
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Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge
The FSM Bridge is approximately 1,510 meters long, with a width of 39 meters. It has two main towers and a total of eight lanes for traffic, four in each direction. The bridge also includes pedestrian walkways on both sides. Similar to the first Bosphorus Bridge, the FSM Bridge offers stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait, connecting the European and Asian continents. It has become an iconic symbol of Istanbul's skyline and a significant part of the city's transportation infrastructure. The bridge has undergone maintenance and renovation works over the years to ensure its safety and functionality. It remains an important landmark and a vital transportation artery, facilitating the movement of vehicles and people between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.
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Anadolu Hisari Fort
Anadolu Hisarı features a rectangular-shaped fortification with towers at each corner. The fortress walls are made of stone and are reinforced with sturdy battlements. Inside the fortress, there are several small buildings, including a mosque and a cistern. Today, Anadolu Hisarı stands as a well-preserved historical site and is open to the public. Visitors can explore the fortress, walk along its walls, and enjoy panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the surrounding area. It offers a glimpse into the architectural and military history of the Ottoman Empire and provides a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to appreciate.
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Kucuksu Pavilion
The construction of Küçüksu Palace began in 1856 and was completed in 1857 during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid I. The palace was primarily used as a hunting lodge and a place for relaxation and entertainment for the Ottoman sultans and their guests. The architectural style of Küçüksu Palace is a blend of Ottoman and European influences, primarily featuring a mixture of Baroque and Rococo elements. The palace consists of two main floors and a basement. The facade is adorned with intricate ornamentation, colorful tiles, and decorative carvings.
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KIz Kulesi
Kız Kulesi, also known as the Maiden's Tower or Leander's Tower, is an iconic tower located on a small islet at the southern entrance of the Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul, Turkey. It has a rich history dating back to ancient times and has become a symbol of the city. The exact origins of Kız Kulesi are unclear, but it is believed to have been built as a defensive tower during the Byzantine period, possibly around the 5th century. Over the centuries, the tower has undergone numerous reconstructions and renovations. The tower has a unique architectural design, with a cylindrical shape and a conical roof. It stands at approximately 23 meters (75 feet) tall and offers panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the surrounding area.
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Galata Tower
The Galata Tower, or Galata Kulesi in Turkish, is an iconic landmark located in the Galata neighborhood of Istanbul, Turkey. Standing tall at 67 meters (219 feet), the tower offers panoramic views of the city and has a rich history dating back centuries. The construction of the Galata Tower can be traced back to the Byzantine era, although the exact date is uncertain. It is believed to have been built in the 14th century as part of the defense walls of the Genoese colony of Galata, which was situated on the northern side of the Golden Horn. Over the centuries, the Galata Tower has served various purposes, including as a watchtower, a fire observation point, and even a prison. Today, it stands as a popular tourist attraction and observation deck, allowing visitors to enjoy breathtaking views of Istanbul's skyline.
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Galataport
Galataport is a major waterfront development project located in Istanbul, Turkey. It aims to transform the Karaköy district, which is on the European side of Istanbul, into a vibrant cultural, entertainment, and tourism destination. Galataport is a joint venture between the Istanbul Port Authority and a private consortium led by the Global Liman İşletmeleri (Global Ports Holding). The project involves the redevelopment and revitalization of the Karaköy port area, which has historically been an important maritime hub in Istanbul. The Galataport project aims to create a modern, mixed-use complex that combines commercial, cultural, and recreational elements. The development will include luxury hotels, restaurants, cafes, retail outlets, art galleries, performance venues, and public spaces.
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Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Istanbul
The operator will contact the customers on the day before for meeting details.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Kabataş Pier
Options you can book
Up to 10 people
Number of person
Up to 15 people
Number of person
Private Bosphorus Lunch Cruise on a Luxury Yacht
Up to 6 people
Number of person
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
- 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
- 0-3 years old kids are free of charge
Photos
Traveler reviews
2 verified traveler reviews for Private Bosphorus Lunch Cruise on a Luxury Yacht. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
A fun day, but some misunderstandings can put poor light on the fun
This was a Black Sea cruise and I think the experience was a five star, and why it gets a three star overall was some misinformation about pricing from the brochure given by our hotel. My advice is be super clear about how method of payment (we used a credit card to pay) will affect the price. Often in Istanbul there are fees for credit use, but this wasn’t communicated until 30 minutes before the cruise concluded adding 20% to the cost of the tour. Also, there is some walking to and from the vehicle pickup location, so if you have someone who has difficulty walking, make sure to confirm they will pick up and drop off door to door. That said, the afternoon was memorable and onboard service was great. So would recommend, again just ask a lot of questions and make sure you are clear on terms before booking!
Response from the operator: Thank you for your feedback, and we’re very pleased to hear that you found the Black Sea cruise itself to be a five-star experience and enjoyed our onboard service. We would just like to clarify two points. The additional 20% was not a credit card fee, but the legally applicable VAT, which is excluded from the listed price and clearly mentioned in our product brochure. The same VAT applies regardless of the payment method. Regarding the hotel transfer, we always try to provide the most convenient pickup possible. However, your hotel was located on a street that our transfer bus could not enter, so it was necessary to arrange the pickup and drop-off from the nearest accessible point. We appreciate your recommendation and are glad that, despite these misunderstandings, you had a memorable afternoon with us.
via Tripadvisor
Great Trip
Great way to spend a few hours on a luxury yacht , seeing the sights of Istanbul from the water. Great snacks and drinks included and alcohol to buy whilst on board. The guide was very wonderfully informative. Lovely afternoon.
Response from the operator: Thank you very much for your wonderful feedback. We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed spending the afternoon on our luxury yacht, seeing Istanbul from the water, and appreciated the snacks, drinks, and informative guide. We truly appreciate your kind words and hope to welcome you again in Istanbul.
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
- €700 to €1,000
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 1
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
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 47
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Private Bosphorus Lunch Cruise on a Luxury Yacht: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Istanbul.
How much does Private Bosphorus Lunch Cruise on a Luxury Yacht cost?
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Prices start at €700 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 Private Bosphorus Lunch Cruise on a Luxury Yacht 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 Private Bosphorus Lunch Cruise on a Luxury Yacht worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 47 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4/5 across 2 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 Private Bosphorus Lunch Cruise on a 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 Private Bosphorus Lunch Cruise on a Luxury Yacht 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 Private Bosphorus Lunch Cruise on a Luxury Yacht?
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Around 1 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 Private Bosphorus Lunch Cruise on a 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 Private Bosphorus Lunch Cruise on a Luxury Yacht?
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Included: Complimentary onboard Wi-Fi; All Fees and Taxes; Professional captain and crew; Lunch; and Private use of a luxury yacht for 2 hours. Not included: Alcoholic beverages; Private transportation; Personal expenses and tips; and Tour guide (can be arranged upon request). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Private Bosphorus Lunch Cruise on a Luxury Yacht?
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The operator will contact the customers on the day before for meeting details. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Private Bosphorus Lunch Cruise on a 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 Private Bosphorus Lunch Cruise on a 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 Private Bosphorus Lunch Cruise on a 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 booking options are available for Private Bosphorus Lunch Cruise on a Luxury Yacht?
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There are 4 options to choose from, including Up to 10 people, Up to 15 people, Private Bosphorus Lunch Cruise on a Luxury Yacht, Up to 6 people. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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