ISTANBUL, TÜRKİYE · EST. 2009Speak to our local team · +90 537 473 99 46 ↗
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THE BOSPHORUS COLLECTIONPRIVATE ISTANBUL CRUISE · SINCE 2009

TWO CONTINENTS. YOUR OWN PERSPECTIVE.

Some days deserve
a different view.

yacht istanbul
41° N · 29° EBETWEEN EUROPE & ASIA
↗

Step aboard. Leave the everyday behind.
Your private Istanbul experience starts here.

Operated by Romos Travel Established in Istanbul, 2009TÜRSAB A–13114

CHOOSE YOUR MOMENT

There’s more than one
way to meet the Bosphorus.

From unhurried mornings to the last light on the water. Find an experience that feels like you.

Breakfast table on a private yacht overlooking the Bosphorus

EXCLUSIVELY YOURS

Bosphorus Cruise Tour with Breakfast

Choose the menu for the Bosphorus Cruise Tour with Breakfast Tour and explore Istanbul from the Bosphorus. The best private and luxury yachts and boats in tours

Private yacht cruising beside the Istanbul shoreline

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Private Bosphorus Cruise

Private Bosphorus Cruise Enjoy the beautiful view and the highlights of the Bosphorus during the Istanbul Private Boat Tour, which is 2 hours on a luxury yacht.

bosphorus-cruise-event-for-groups-private-yacht-istanbul-special-boat

EXCLUSIVELY YOURS

Bosphorus Cruise Event for Groups

Bosphorus Cruise Event for Groups Tours includes many entertainments unlimited alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks on Istanbul Private Luxury Boat and Yacht Tour.

wedding-proposal-on-bosphorus-istanbul-best-event-ever

EXCLUSIVELY YOURS

Marriage Proposal on Bosphorus

With Marriage Proposal on Bosphorus, Istanbul Boat Tour, Make an unforgettable marriage proposal on the Bosphorus by private yacht with luxury service.

Friends enjoying a private celebration on a yacht on the Bosphorus in Istanbul

EXCLUSIVELY YOURS

Istanbul Bachelor Party

With the Istanbul Bachelor and Stag Party, be ready for an amazing tour and cruise between Europe and Asia on the Bosphorus on a luxury private yacht and boat.

bosphorus-cruise-yacht-with-lunch

EXCLUSIVELY YOURS

Bosphorus Cruise Tour with Lunch

Bosphorus Cruise Tour with Lunch-Book a private luxury yacht! Choose your menu, then start a fantastic trip on an Istanbul private yacht and boat tour.

Istanbul Company Events by Boat

EXCLUSIVELY YOURS

Bosphorus Cruise Corporate Events

Bosphorus Cruise Corporate Events, Company Gala Dinner, Meeting, celebration, or alternate company event on Bosphorus, Istanbul Yacht Tours on a private boat.

An aerial view of the Princes’ Islands near Istanbul

EXCLUSIVELY YOURS

Full Day Private Princes Island Cruise

Explore the most popular island in Istanbul with Private Princes Island Cruise Tours. A luxury yacht and boat as a full-day tour, enjoy the food and vicinity.

Sunset Bosphorus Cruise by Private Yacht

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Sunset Bosphorus Cruise by Private Yacht

Sunset Bosphorus Cruise by Private Yacht. Istanbul boat tours and trips between Europe and Asia. Have an unforgettable time with Istanbul's silhouette.

bosphorus-cruise-with-dinner-istanbul-yacht

EXCLUSIVELY YOURS

Bosphorus Cruise Tour with Dinner

Bosphorus Cruise Tour with Dinner offers an unforgettable dinner under the lingering sunset of an amazing Bosphorus view during Istanbul Boat and Yacht Tours.

Bosphorus Cruise Event for Groups

EXCLUSIVELY YOURS

Full Day Private Bosphorus Cruise Tour

Full Day Private Bosphorus Cruise Tour and enjoy the Bosphorus's breeze on the boat. Luxury Istanbul and Bosphorus Yachts. Make your day memorable!

istanbul swimming tour by yacht

EXCLUSIVELY YOURS

Istanbul Swimming Tour

Istanbul Swimming Tour, the Best tour for swimming at Bosphorus and beaches. No crowds, no traffic jams. It is your day; enjoy the Bosphorus Boat Tour Cruise.

Explore all private cruise experiences ↗
A little window onto the BosphorusA bronze-hulled motor yacht gently rocks on turquoise water while Istanbul's waterfront, towers and bridge drift past behind it. EUROPE · THE BOSPHORUS · ASIA
A LITTLE WINDOW ONTO THE BOSPHORUS

A BOAT THAT FITS YOUR PLANS

Bring your people.
We’ll find your yacht.

An intimate afternoon for two, time with family, or a celebration with everyone you love. Explore the fleet and tell us what you have in mind.

Discover our yachts ↗

YOUR PEOPLE. YOUR OWN SPACE.

Find your yacht.
Make the day yours.

Explore fifteen yachts and boats from our Istanbul collection. Open a yacht to see its photographs and details.

Explore Istanbul yachts & boats ↗
Private Boat Tours Istanbul

PRIVATE YACHT

Private Boat Tour Istanbul

Private Boat Tour Istanbul: Book your Bosphorus cruise tours for 2 to 8 hours for groups of 2 to 10 people and relax with your drinks. Visit the Princes' Island

luxury yacht istanbul

PRIVATE YACHT

Private Yacht Cruise Istanbul

Private Yacht Cruise Istanbul: You can book this private boat for 2 to 10 people and enjoy the Bosphorus tour for 2 to 8 hours, even with lunch or dinner.

Private Yacht Cruise

PRIVATE YACHT

Private Yacht Bosphorus Cruise

Private yacht Bosphorus cruise tours will make your day between the continents of Europe and Asia with Istanbul boat rental from 2 to 8 hours for 2 to 10 people

Private Istanbul Yacht for 5 People

PRIVATE YACHT

Private Istanbul Yacht for 5 People

Private Istanbul Yacht for 5 People. Book one of the best luxury boat, a yacht to Bosphorus Cruise Tour in Istanbul for your amazing trip with the highlights.

Private Istanbul Yacht for 30 People

PRIVATE YACHT

Private Istanbul Yacht for 30 People

Private Istanbul Yacht for 30 People. For a relaxing and comfortable boat cruise tour, a private luxury yacht for a cruise on the Bosphorus is a good choice.

Luxury Boat in Istanbul

PRIVATE YACHT

Luxury Boat in Istanbul

Escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary with our best luxury boat in Istanbul. Sail through iconic landmarks and relish the pinnacle of sophistication

Istanbul Private Yacht Tour

PRIVATE YACHT

Istanbul Private Yacht Tour

Istanbul Private Yacht Tour for Bosphorus cruise tour from 2 to 8 hours and 2 to 8 people complimentary drinks between the continents and to Princes' ıslands

Private Bosphorus Cruise Tours

PRIVATE YACHT

Private Bosphorus Cruise Tours

Private Bosphorus Cruise Tours by Istanbul boat rental for 2 to 8 hours and 2 to 6 people with complimentary hot drinks during the trip between the continents

Private Istanbul Yacht for 50 People

PRIVATE YACHT

Private Istanbul Yacht for 50 People

Private Istanbul Yacht for up to 50 People. A private yacht for sailing on Bosphorus is available for up to 80 people with comfortable Cruise and Boat tours.

Private Istanbul Yacht for 10 People

PRIVATE YACHT

Private Istanbul Yacht up to 10 People

Private Istanbul Yacht up to 10 People. A private yacht for sailing on Bosphorus is available for up to 12 people with a relaxing and comfortable cruise tour.

Wedding ceremony seating arranged on an Istanbul boat deck

PRIVATE YACHT

Wedding Boat in Istanbul

Experience the perfect blend of romance and adventure on a wedding boat in Istanbul. Celebrate your love surrounded by the stunning backdrop of the Bosphorus.

Private Istanbul Yacht for 20 People

PRIVATE YACHT

Private Istanbul Yacht for 20 People

Private Istanbul Yacht, up to 20 People: A private yacht for sailing, is available for up to 40 people with a relaxing and comfortable cruise tour on Bosphorus.

yacht rental in istanbul

PRIVATE YACHT

Private Yacht Tour Istanbul

Private Yacht Tour Istanbul for larger groups of up to 40 people with dinner and business meetings, engagements, and family reunions boat rental on Bosphorus.

private cruise bosphorus

PRIVATE YACHT

Private Cruise on Bosphorus

Private Cruise on Bosphorus for business meetings and dinners, weddings, engagements, and family reunions for up to 40 people organizations boat rental.

Private Istanbul Yacht for 15 People

PRIVATE YACHT

Private Istanbul Yacht up to 15 People

Private Istanbul Yacht up to 15 People - A private yacht for sailing is available for up to 40 people with a relaxing and comfortable cruise tour on Bosphorus.

LIFE ON THE BOSPHORUS

Different views.
Lasting memories.

Open water, private moments and a city that always has another story. Explore our collection from Istanbul.

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istanbul boat tour

istanbul boat tour

BEFORE YOU STEP ABOARD

Feel the breeze.
Picture your day.

A closer look at life on the water, through films from Private Istanbul Cruise.

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MOMENTS SHARED. MEMORIES KEPT.

A few words.
A lasting impression.

Different people. Their own Istanbul.
Ten guest stories, selected from our testimonials.

Explore all guest stories ↗
THE GUESTBOOK PRIVATE ISTANBUL CRUISE
01 / 10
I had a great time going up and down the Bosphorus to get to the third bridge. Swimming was fantastic off the rear of the yacht, the restaurant that was recommended had some excellent seafood, and the time spent on board was really relaxing. Tea and fruit were…
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I had a great time going up and down the Bosphorus to get to the third bridge. Swimming was fantastic off the rear of the yacht, the restaurant that was recommended had some excellent seafood, and the time spent on board was really relaxing. Tea and fruit were provided without charge, which was a very nice touch. The steward in the cabin was attentive and offered directions to several points of interest. Excellent communication regarding reservations via email and WhatsApp I would strongly recommend A fantastic day trip!

We had a wonderful time on their cruise on the Private Istanbul Cruise yacht, which included very good communication with the booking process, transportation to and from the boat, and transportation after the cruise as well. Both the service and the meals on…
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We had a wonderful time on their cruise on the Private Istanbul Cruise yacht, which included very good communication with the booking process, transportation to and from the boat, and transportation after the cruise as well. Both the service and the meals on board were really good. I had a two-hour cruise from six to eight in the evening. The boat was immaculately clean, and it had a pleasant atmosphere that was both cozy and warm. I would recommend the two-hour evening cruise with great regard."

"Picked up at the pier, lovely boat, friendly, knowledgeable guide. Perfect afternoon out on the water, seeing the sights, and getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Lovely lunch stop for a fish meal." Everyone in our family thought it was…
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"Picked up at the pier, lovely boat, friendly, knowledgeable guide. Perfect afternoon out on the water, seeing the sights, and getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Lovely lunch stop for a fish meal." Everyone in our family thought it was wonderful.

Every single one of them was on time for our sightseeing excursion. We were picked up from our hotel promptly, and we got to the dock in perfect time to embark on our cruise. Excellent condition, very clean, and more than enough space for our family of five;…
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Every single one of them was on time for our sightseeing excursion. We were picked up from our hotel promptly, and we got to the dock in perfect time to embark on our cruise. Excellent condition, very clean, and more than enough space for our family of five; we could have easily and happily accommodated another five guests. We were free to roam between the upper and lower decks, and the children walked forward to sit at the front of the vessel for a bit. My daughters were more interested in taking selfies and photos than listening to the guide's explanation of the sights as we cruised by them. They had cold beverages, while my wife and I had something toastier to drink. We noticed that there was a supply of soft drinks in case they were needed. The two-hour trip was about the right length to see everything without feeling rushed. If you need it, there is also a nice, clean toilet. When we got back to the shore, our ride back was already there, waiting for us. Overall, it was an enjoyable experience.

Overall, a very positive experience, with friendly staff and a nice, clean, and compact yacht." The only drawback is that the meal is inedible; therefore, you shouldn't order it. Aside from that, I cannot recommend it enough." Overall, it was a wonderful time.
Everyone on board the Bosphoros had a wonderful experience during the afternoon trip we had. The staff for the pre-cruise activities were friendly, helpful, and supportive. Even the restroom on the boat was spotless and very comfortable to use. The lunch that…
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Everyone on board the Bosphoros had a wonderful experience during the afternoon trip we had. The staff for the pre-cruise activities were friendly, helpful, and supportive. Even the restroom on the boat was spotless and very comfortable to use. The lunch that was given on board was not only delectable but also tastefully prepared. The team was helpful and attentive, and one of them was even fluent in English. Everything that was promised turned out to be true. It is very possible that we will hire Private Istanbul Cruise Yachts again.

Sunset cruise We had an excellent time for two hours on Bosfor; we saw so many lovely things, and the guide was extremely helpful.
You can't beat this experience for getting a nighttime view of Istanbul. We went on the dinner cruise that was included in the sunset cruise that we took. After being picked up from our hotel, we were transported to the yacht. Even though it was reserved alone…
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You can't beat this experience for getting a nighttime view of Istanbul. We went on the dinner cruise that was included in the sunset cruise that we took. After being picked up from our hotel, we were transported to the yacht. Even though it was reserved alone for the two of us, it has the capacity to host a private event with up to a dozen guests. Canapés and wine were brought to us as we cast off our lines. As we made our way down one bank of the Bosphorus and back up the other, the crew pointed out all of the important landmarks and points of interest along the way. The majority of the old buildings are illuminated, which contributes to the enchanted atmosphere. When we had been traveling for an hour, we pulled up to the quay of a restaurant, and our main course meal was carried on board straight from the kitchen of the restaurant. The two hours were a fantastic introduction to this incredible city, and the food was delicious. The team was discrete but helpful when it was needed. Suggested!

A beautiful and spotless private yacht is available for Bosphorus cruising, offered by Hakan. The three-person crew took excellent care of us, bringing us delicious Turkish tea along with freshly cut fruits. It comes highly recommended! It is well worth the…
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A beautiful and spotless private yacht is available for Bosphorus cruising, offered by Hakan. The three-person crew took excellent care of us, bringing us delicious Turkish tea along with freshly cut fruits. It comes highly recommended! It is well worth the cost. Magnificent In-Sea Private Cruise

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: you and your group will have the entire yacht to yourselves all the way along the Bosphorus. It's an absolutely stunning vessel. quite comfy, quite peaceful, with excellent restroom facilities and a very open floor…
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This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: you and your group will have the entire yacht to yourselves all the way along the Bosphorus. It's an absolutely stunning vessel. quite comfy, quite peaceful, with excellent restroom facilities and a very open floor plan. The staff was extremely courteous and helpful. All bookings are done online, and the administration responds practically immediately, so they are really prompt and well-organized. In addition, the journey itself is breathtaking. Amazing sights throughout the entirety of the journey, including ruins, castles, mosques, palaces, bridges, parks, and gardens, as well as elegant buildings along the seaside, An incredible opportunity to visit the Istanbul Riviera away from the madding hordes.

Selected reviews from our existing guestbook. Longer reviews are shown as excerpts; open a card to read the full text.

MADE PERSONAL, FROM THE START

Your day begins with a conversation.

01

Tell us your plans

Your date, your group and what would make the day special.

02

Find your perfect fit

We’ll help you choose a yacht and shape your time on the water.

03

Step aboard

Meet at the agreed pier and let Istanbul unfold around you.

ISTANBUL, FROM A DIFFERENT ANGLE

Palaces by the water.
Stories along the shore.

Ten landmarks to get to know before your cruise. From waterside palaces to the city’s unmistakable skyline.

Explore the Bosphorus highlights ↗

The sights you pass depend on your chosen route and cruise duration. Landmark visits and admission are not included unless specified in your itinerary.

THE PEOPLE BEHIND YOUR DAY

Local knowledge.
Professional connections.

Private Istanbul Cruise is operated by Romos Travel Agency. Established in Istanbul in 2009.

Ministry of Commerce

Ministry of Commerce

Republic of Türkiye

TÜRSAB

TÜRSAB

Romos Travel Agency · A–13114

Istanbul Chamber of Commerce

Istanbul Chamber of Commerce

Registration no. 263125

THE ISTANBUL JOURNAL

A little inspiration.
Before you set sail.

Places, perspectives and ideas for your time in Istanbul. Six stories from our journal.

Explore all journal stories ↗

PRIVATE BOSPHORUS BOAT RENTAL

Your plans.
A boat to match.

Private yachts, personal occasions and a local Istanbul team. Shape your time on the Bosphorus around the people you are travelling with.

A fleet of 14 yachts & boats

From an intimate cruise for two to events for larger groups, our Istanbul collection offers different vessel sizes. Selected event boats can accommodate up to 400 guests; we confirm the licensed capacity and layout for your chosen vessel.

Your occasion, thoughtfully arranged

Tell us what you are celebrating. We can discuss flowers, music, a belly dancer, an orchestra, drone filming, a laser show or fireworks. Every extra is arranged in advance, subject to vessel suitability, availability and any required permissions.

A professional crew on board

Cruise with certified, licensed captains with over 10 years of experience and a professional cabin crew. Your captain and crew remain part of the charter, so you can relax and enjoy your time on the water.

Your time. Your tour.

Choose a short sightseeing cruise, a leisurely full day or an event timed around your plans. We agree the start time, duration and arrangements before departure; any extension depends on the yacht’s schedule and crew confirmation.

ONE STRAIT. MANY WAYS TO EXPERIENCE IT.

Find your kind of Bosphorus day.

Explore all cruises ↗
A FIRST LOOK AT ISTANBUL

2-hour private Bosphorus cruise

Spend two hours between Europe and Asia with your own group. Enjoy the shoreline palaces, waterside neighbourhoods and changing perspectives of Istanbul.

Explore this experience ↗
TIME TO EXPLORE

Full-day private Bosphorus cruise

An eight-hour itinerary leaves more time for the Bosphorus and its neighbourhoods. Stops in places such as Sarıyer, Kadıköy, Beylerbeyi or Ortaköy can be discussed when planning your route and suitable berthing arrangements.

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THE CITY IN A DIFFERENT LIGHT

Istanbul sunset cruise

See the city’s skyline change as daylight gives way to evening. A private sunset cruise brings together the historic peninsula, the Bosphorus shores and the lights of modern Istanbul.

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AN ISLAND DAY

Private Princes’ Islands cruise

Set aside a full day for island scenery and a slower pace. Discuss an island stop, a seafood restaurant or lunch arrangements with our team as part of your itinerary.

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AN UNHURRIED MORNING

Bosphorus cruise with breakfast

Start your day with breakfast on a private yacht as Istanbul’s waterfront passes by. Choose your menu in advance and enjoy the open-air setting; wildlife sightings, including dolphins, are a matter of luck.

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A VENUE WITH A VIEW

Bosphorus corporate events

Plan a company gathering, a gala dinner or a meeting on the water. Events can begin with a three-hour cruise and be tailored to your group, with timing and any extension agreed with the team.

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A TABLE BETWEEN TWO CONTINENTS

Bosphorus cruise with lunch

Pair shoreline views with a leisurely Turkish lunch. Discuss your preferred menu, service style and itinerary before departure so the day suits your group.

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BRING YOUR FAVOURITE PEOPLE

Istanbul bachelor party

Celebrate with your own group on a private yacht. Choose the vessel and the atmosphere you want, then discuss music, refreshments and optional hotel transfers before your day on the Bosphorus.

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SOMETHING TO SHARE

Bosphorus events for groups

From daytime gatherings to evening celebrations, we help match your group with a suitable boat. Ask about menus, drinks, transport and Turkish Night entertainment as individually arranged extras.

Explore this experience ↗

Choose the Bosphorus experience that feels right for you, then tell us your date, group size and ideas. We will help you shape a private Istanbul cruise around your plans.

Plan your cruise ↗

THE WATERWAY. THE CITY. THE STORIES.

Beyond the skyline.
Meet the Bosphorus.

A little background before you set sail. Explore the experiences, neighbourhoods and stories that give Istanbul’s waterway its character.

Bosphorus yacht rental

A private yacht can be a quiet way to sightsee or a setting for a celebration. Select a vessel that suits your group and relax on board while the captain and crew handle the navigation. Facilities vary by yacht, so confirm the seating, indoor space, bathrooms and other amenities before booking.

A stop on the Asian side

A longer cruise can leave room for a different perspective on Istanbul. An Asian-shore stop may allow time to explore a neighbourhood, visit a market or enjoy a meal before returning to the yacht. The location, time ashore and berthing arrangements must be agreed as part of your route.

A luxury yacht on the Bosphorus

Comfortable seating, thoughtful service and an uninterrupted view can turn a simple cruise into a memorable afternoon or evening. Discuss the yacht, refreshments and any special touches with our team; champagne, dining and other extras should be specified in your proposal.

Istanbul weddings on a yacht

Bring your guests together against Istanbul’s skyline for a wedding celebration on the water. Vessel capacity, dining layout, decorations, entertainment and timing all shape the event. We plan these details with you in advance; any ceremony requirements need to be discussed separately.

A Bosphorus cruise in Istanbul

From the water, grand palaces and suspension bridges sit alongside fishing neighbourhoods and waterside homes. A private cruise lets you take in these contrasts at your own pace, with your group and a route chosen around the time you have.

EXPLORE THE BOSPHORUS · 01Two continents, centuries of storiesThe history and geography behind Istanbul’s defining waterway.

Bosphorus: the vibrant lifeline of Türkiye

The Bosphorus connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara and separates Istanbul’s European and Asian shores. Its position has shaped the city’s trade, daily life and cultural exchanges for centuries. A cruise offers a different way to understand that relationship between the city and the water.

The historical significance of the Bosphorus

Istanbul’s shoreline reflects its Byzantine and Ottoman past as well as the modern city. The conquest of Constantinople in 1453 marked a turning point in that history. Palaces, fortifications and neighbourhoods along the strait offer glimpses of the different eras that have shaped the city.

The geography of a city between continents

The strait winds between two shores, with hills, small bays and neighbourhoods opening onto the water. The Black Sea lies to the north and the Sea of Marmara to the south. Changing angles along the route reveal how closely Istanbul’s urban landscape is tied to its geography.

Bosphorus Bridge: a crossing between Europe and Asia

The bridge opened in 1973 and is also known as the 15 July Martyrs Bridge. Its suspension towers and the Ortaköy shoreline form one of Istanbul’s familiar views. After dark, the bridge becomes part of the city’s illuminated waterfront.

EXPLORE THE BOSPHORUS · 02A waterfront written in architecturePalaces, fortresses, museums and the city’s creative life.

A blend of ancient and modern architecture

Ottoman palaces such as Dolmabahçe and Beylerbeyi share the shoreline with wooden waterfront residences known as yalı. Rumeli and Anadolu fortresses recall the strait’s strategic role, while modern bridges connect the two sides. Together, these structures make the Bosphorus a landscape of contrasting periods and styles.

A hub for art and culture

Istanbul’s relationship with the Bosphorus extends into its museums, galleries and cultural spaces. Istanbul Modern and the Sakıp Sabancı Museum are among the places associated with the city’s artistic life. Exhibitions and events can offer another perspective on Istanbul when you spend time ashore.

The Bosphorus in literature and film

The strait appears throughout the stories told about Istanbul, from literature to cinema. Writers such as Orhan Pamuk have explored the city’s character, while filmmakers have used its skyline and waterways as a setting. Seeing the Bosphorus for yourself gives familiar images a new sense of place.

EXPLORE THE BOSPHORUS · 03Flavours, evenings and waterfront lifeFrom a simple fish sandwich to dinner with a view.

Cuisine around the Bosphorus

Waterfront dining is part of the city’s appeal, whether that means a casual fish sandwich near the docks, a seafood meal in a shoreline neighbourhood or a restaurant overlooking the strait. You can build a meal into your day ashore or discuss a menu for your private cruise.

Bosphorus nights

As daylight fades, the waterfront takes on a different atmosphere. Illuminated palaces, bridge lights and reflections on the water make an evening cruise distinct from a daytime journey. Ashore, restaurants, bars and music venues offer their own ways to enjoy an Istanbul evening.

Festivals and events

Istanbul’s cultural calendar includes film, music, art and seasonal celebrations. The Bosphorus also provides a setting for sporting events such as the cross-continental swimming race. Dates and access arrangements vary, so check the programme for your travel dates before building an event into your plans.

EXPLORE THE BOSPHORUS · 04Life in and around the straitWildlife, working waterways and the need to care for this landscape.

Fish and marine life

The Bosphorus is a passage for marine life as well as ships. Fishing remains part of the shoreline’s everyday culture, and dolphins are sometimes seen in the strait. Wildlife follows its own rhythms, so sightings cannot be promised on a cruise.

The Bosphorus and the economy

Commercial shipping, ferries, fishing and tourism all make the strait a working waterway. Alongside international maritime traffic, local boats connect neighbourhoods and carry people through their daily routines. A cruise reveals both the scenic and practical sides of life on the Bosphorus.

Environmental concerns

Heavy maritime traffic, urban development and pollution put pressure on the strait and its surrounding habitats. Enjoying the Bosphorus also means respecting it: keep litter on board, avoid disturbing wildlife and follow the crew’s guidance throughout your trip.

EXPLORE THE BOSPHORUS · 05Make time for the city around the waterPlaces to stay, moments to savour and a lasting impression of Istanbul.

Hotels and accommodation around the Bosphorus

Istanbul offers places to stay ranging from grand waterfront hotels to smaller neighbourhood properties. The best base depends on your itinerary, budget and preferred atmosphere. If you are staying by the water, ask whether a suitable hotel pier can be used; a transfer or pier arrangement is not automatic.

A cruise to remember

A Bosphorus cruise brings together sea air, shoreline views and the sounds of a working city. A short sightseeing trip, an island day and an evening celebration each offer a different experience. Choosing the right route and duration helps make your time on the water feel personal.

An enduring symbol of Istanbul

The Bosphorus is more than a line between two continents. It connects the city’s past and present, its neighbourhoods and its everyday rituals. Whether you first see it from a ferry, a waterfront street or a private yacht, it is a defining part of Istanbul’s identity.

BEFORE YOU STEP ABOARD

Good questions.
Clearer plans.

Twenty-five answers to help you plan your private Istanbul cruise. Your written proposal confirms the arrangements for your booking.

Ask our Istanbul team ↗

01Planning your cruise

01Is the yacht private for our group?

A private charter is reserved for your own party, with the captain and crew on board. Confirm the selected yacht and the people included in your booking with our team.

02How do we choose the right yacht or boat?

Tell us your group size, preferred date, cruise length and occasion. We will help you compare suitable vessels, seating layouts, indoor and outdoor areas, and any event requirements.

03Can you arrange cruises for large groups?

Our fleet includes vessels for different group sizes, with selected event boats accommodating up to 400 guests. The appropriate capacity depends on the particular vessel and event layout, so it must be confirmed for your booking.

04How long can a private Bosphorus cruise last?

A two-hour sightseeing cruise is a popular starting point. Longer cruises, including full-day itineraries of around eight hours, and tailored event durations can be discussed. Start times and any extensions depend on the yacht’s availability.

05What time does a sunset cruise start?

The start time changes with the season and your selected itinerary. We agree the timing for your travel date so you can enjoy the transition from daylight to evening; weather conditions affect the view of the sunset.

02Routes & getting there

06Which Bosphorus highlights can we see?

Depending on the route, you may pass waterfront palaces, neighbourhoods, mosques and bridges on the European and Asian shores. Not every landmark is visible on every cruise, and sightseeing from the yacht does not include entry to attractions unless stated in your itinerary.

07Can we stop on the Asian side of Istanbul?

A stop on the Asian shore can be discussed for a suitable itinerary. The location, time ashore, route and berthing arrangements need to be agreed before departure rather than assumed to be included.

08Do you offer private Princes’ Islands cruises?

Yes, a full-day private Princes’ Islands cruise is one of our experiences. Discuss the route, island stops, lunch and any swimming plans with the team so the arrangements are clear in your proposal.

09Can you arrange a hotel transfer or hotel-pier pickup?

Ask us about transfer options when enquiring. Road transfers and hotel-pier access depend on your location and the selected yacht, and may involve an additional charge. They are included only when specified in your proposal.

10Where do we meet the yacht?

Your confirmed meeting point and arrival instructions are provided for your particular cruise. Check the pier name and location carefully, and allow time for Istanbul traffic. Our office address is not automatically the yacht’s departure point.

03Life on board

11Are the captain and crew included, or can we drive the yacht ourselves?

The captain and crew are part of the private charter and remain on board. These experiences are crewed cruises; guests do not take over navigation or operate the yacht themselves.

12Can children join a private cruise?

Families are welcome. Tell us the children’s ages and any requirements before booking so we can discuss a suitable vessel and arrangements. Children must remain supervised by a responsible adult and follow the crew’s instructions.

13Are the yachts wheelchair accessible?

Access varies between vessels and piers, and some yachts have steps, narrow boarding points or changes in deck level. Please describe your mobility needs before booking so we can check a specific yacht; step-free access must not be assumed.

14Can we swim during the cruise?

Swimming can be discussed for an appropriate swimming or island itinerary. It depends on the route, conditions and the captain’s assessment. It is not an automatic part of a standard sightseeing cruise, and guests must follow the crew’s directions.

15What happens if the weather affects our cruise?

The captain assesses the conditions for the selected vessel and route. If changes are needed, our team will explain the available arrangements for your booking. Rescheduling, cancellation and refund terms are those stated in your confirmation.

04Dining & celebrations

16Can we book breakfast, lunch or dinner on board?

Breakfast, lunch and dinner cruise experiences are available. Menus, meal service and any restaurant stops depend on the selected experience and must be agreed in advance. A meal is included only when listed in your proposal.

17Can you cater for allergies or dietary preferences?

Tell us about allergies, dietary restrictions and preferences before confirming the menu. We will check what can be arranged with the relevant catering provider; suitability and any limitations need to be confirmed for your booking.

18Are drinks included in the charter price?

Drink inclusions vary by yacht and package. Check your proposal for the specific beverages, quantities and any extra charges. Do not assume that alcohol or an unlimited drinks service is included in every private charter.

19Can you arrange proposals, weddings, birthdays or corporate events?

Yes, we can discuss a private yacht event for your occasion. Share your group size, preferred date and ideas so we can plan the vessel, timing, dining, decorations and any entertainment. All agreed services should appear in the proposal.

20Can we add music, performers, drone filming or fireworks?

Ask about the extras you have in mind when planning your cruise. Options depend on the vessel, location, availability and any permissions required. Performances, filming, laser shows and fireworks are not standard inclusions and must be confirmed in advance.

05Booking & our team

21How do we request a private cruise proposal?

Contact our Istanbul team with your date, number of guests, preferred duration and occasion. Mention any transfers, meals or special requests so we can prepare a proposal that sets out the chosen yacht and services.

22What determines the price of a private cruise?

The quote depends on the yacht, cruise length, date, group requirements and any extras such as catering, transfers or entertainment. Refer to the written proposal for the total price, currency and exactly what is included.

23How do deposits and payments work?

Your proposal and booking confirmation specify the deposit, balance, payment deadlines and accepted payment methods. Follow the payment instructions provided by Romos Travel for your reservation.

24What if we need to change or cancel our booking?

Contact the team as soon as your plans change. Availability and any charges depend on the notice given, the selected services and the terms accepted at confirmation. Check those terms before booking; free changes or cancellation are not assumed.

25Who operates Private Istanbul Cruise?

Private Istanbul Cruise is operated by Romos Travel Agency, established in Istanbul in 2009, with TÜRSAB licence A–13114. Our Istanbul office is in Beşiktaş. You can find the office, contact information and registration links on this website.

A LITTLE LESS ORDINARY

Your people.
Your perfect day.

Tell us what you’re imagining.
We’ll take care of the details on the water.

Start planning your cruise ↗