Bosphorus Sunset Cruise in Istanbul | Private Yacht Tours
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Bosphorus Dinner Cruise
Duration
3,5 Hours
Max People
50 People
Availability
All Year
Pick-up & Drop-Off
Include
Dinner on the Bosphorus, with the Turkish Night show
The dinner cruise is a different kind of evening from the sunset cruise. This one starts later — boarding around 8 PM — and runs for about two and a half hours. The boat itself is larger: a three-deck cruise vessel with an indoor dining hall on the lower deck, an open upper deck for the ship’s skyline views, and a stage in the middle.
Dinner is a Turkish buffet: mezzes to start (hummus, haydari, ezme, stuffed vine leaves), grilled chicken or fish as a main, rice and salads, seasonal fruit and baklava at the end. Soft drinks are included; beer, wine and rakı are available to order. You eat while the boat sails slowly up the European side, past Dolmabahçe Palace lit for the night and under the first Bosphorus Bridge.
The Turkish Night show begins after dinner, around an hour in: a folk dance group in traditional costumes, a belly dancer, and a live band playing Turkish classics. At one point they invite guests up to dance — about half take them up on it. It’s friendly, a bit kitsch in the best way, and genuinely fun if you arrive expecting an evening out rather than fine dining.
Who this is for: groups of friends, couples who want the whole evening handled in one stop, travellers who’d rather eat with a view than fight for a restaurant booking. If you want the quiet photographic sail, book the sunset cruise (€34, no dinner, no show). If you want a private boat with your own catering, see the private dinner yacht.
Practical: dress code is smart casual, not formal. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available — note your preference at booking. The boat sails even in light rain; only major storms get rescheduled.
Why is it called “Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise”?
The title Bosphorus Dinner Cruise perfectly reflects the essence of this experience. The Bosphorus is the heart of istanbul, connecting Europe and Asia, history and modern life. Dining on the Bosphorus is not just about food; it is about experiencing Istanbul’s culture, night life, and traditions in the most iconic setting of the city.
This dinner cruise combines Istanbul’s rich culinary heritage, traditional Turkish flavors, and world-famous Turkish Night shows such as belly dancing, whirling dervish, and folk dances. While enjoying dinner, guests witness the illuminated skyline of Istanbul, historic palaces, mosques, and bridges that define the city’s identity at night.
The name Bosphorus Dinner Cruise clearly communicates what makes this experience special:
a night on the Bosphorus, authentic Turkish culture, delicious food, live music, and unforgettable Istanbul night views — all in one journey.
Included/Excluded
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off services from centrally located hotels (European side of Istanbul)
- Transport by air-conditioned coach
- Beverages (local beers, spirits and soft drinks)
- Live entertainment, DJ
- Dinner
- Important Drinks
- Tips
Tour Plan
Our Bosphorus Dinner Cruise has 3 main courses: fish, meat, and chicken. For drinks, you are free to choose unlimited soft drinks or unlimited local alcoholic drinks (wine, beers, gin, vodka, raki). Our foods are prepared daily and fresh in our modern and hygiene kitchen.
- Welcome Cocktail - 10 kinds of Cold Mezes (Starters)
- Fresh seasonal salad
- ENTREE (Main Dish with 4 options)
- Mixed grill served with rice and potatoes
- Grilled Fish served with arugula, onion and lemon
- Grilled Chicken Steak served with rice and potatoes
- Grilled Meat Ball with served with rice and potatoes
- Vegetarian Meal (Curry rice, sautéed vegetables, and oven Potato content)
- Dessert ( Baklava & Fruit)
- Unlimited soft drinks or unlimited local alcoholic drinks
- Unlimited hot drinks (tea, coffee)
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Vegetarian Menu :
- Welcome Cocktail - 10 kinds of Cold Mezes (Starters)
- Fresh seasonal salad
- Main Dish
- Vegetarian Meal: Curry rice, sautéed vegetables, and oven Potato content. (We can prepare your requests such as pasta with sauce, pizza with vegetables, or boiled vegetables if you inform us in advance.)
- Dessert ( Baklava & Fruit)
- Unlimited soft drinks or unlimited local alcoholic drinks
- Unlimited hot drinks (tea, coffee)
All shows are performed by professional teams on the Bosphorus Dinner Cruise. You will have the chance to watch many shows from many different regions of Turkish culture: folk dances from the Black Sea, Central Anatolia, and the Anatolian region, henna night specific to Turkish culture, and Aşık Maşuk.
- Whirling Dervish
- Turkish Gypsy Dance
- Caucasian Dance
- Belly Dancer Group Show
- Turkish Folk Dance
- Asuk Masuk
- Rhythm Show
- Belly Dancer
- Professional DJ Performance
All the information you need to know before joining the Bosphorus dinner cruise. What to expect, how to buy ticket, from which pier it departs...
What to expect on a Bosphorus Dinner cruise?
You can expect a Bosphorus boat cruise in the evening, a romantic dinner with soft drinks or alcoholic drinks, entertainment with folk dance from different regions of Turkey, a whirling dervish show, belly dancers, and a live DJ performance.
How to book a Bosphorus dinner cruise ticket?
You do not need to buy a ticket for the Bosphorus dinner cruise. You can request a pre-reservation a few days in advance. After your reservation request, you will be notified of the transfer time and your reservation will be finalized.
How to pay for the Bosphorus dinner cruise?
There is no need to prepay or pay online for the Bosphorus dinner cruise. After making a reservation request, you can pay on the boat with cash or credit card. You can make your cash payment in Turkish lira, dollar, or euro.
What is included in the Bosphorus dinner cruise price?
Bosphorus dinner cruise is an all-inclusive tour. Dinner, Turkish night shows, unlimited drinks, and hotel transfers are included.
Where is the Bosphorus dinner cruise pier?
The departure pier of the Bosphorus dinner cruise ship is Kabataş pier. It is within walking distance of Dolmabahçe Palace and next to the IDO boat pier.
Is there free transfer from the hotels on the Bosphorus dinner cruise?
On the Bosphorus dinner cruise, there is a free transfer service from central hotels on the European side of Istanbul (Sultanahmet, Kabatas, Taksim, Şişhane, Karaköy, Sirkeci, Yenikapı, Laleli, Pera, Şişli, Nişantaşı, Aksaray, Eninönü, Cemberlitaş, Beyazıt, Harbiye, Beyoğlu).
Is there free transfer from the Istanbul Asia side on the Bosphorus dinner cruise?
Unfortunately, there are no transfers from hotels on the Asian side of Istanbul. If you are staying in a hotel on the Asian side, you have to come to Kabataş pier yourself. You can reach Kabataş pier in 15-20 minutes by ship from Kadıköy pier. Since the tour ends around 23:30 in the evening, it is very difficult to go back by public transport. For this reason, we recommend that you return by taxi.
Is there a transfer from Airbnb?
Unfortunately, there is no transfer service from Airbnb. For our Airbnb customers, they are notified of the location of a hotel within walking distance of their location, and a transfer service is provided from that point.
How do get to the boat by public transport?
The easiest way to get to Kabataş pier, where the boat departs, is by tram. When you get on the tram going in the direction of Kabataş, you should get off at the last stop, Kabataş. The pier is right across from the station.
If you are coming by your car, you can park your car at Dolmabahçe palace car park. Kabataş pier is 5 minutes walking distance from Dolmabahçe Palace.
Bosphorus Dinner Cruise is a kind of boat tour on the Bosphorus with Turkish food, appetizers, and drinks. It also offers the opportunity to see some entertainment, such as boat tours, Turkish belly dance, Turkish folk shows, and much more. The Bosphorus dinner cruise is the best way to explore the Bosphorus.
After a romantic dinner, you can enjoy some entertainment offered by professional teams. This tour is incredible for Whirling Dervish, Turkish belly dances, caucasian dance, belly group show, Turkish folk fance, Belly Dancer, and more. You can continue reading our article for more about our Bosphorus Dinner Cruise options.
How much does the Bosphorus Dinner cruise cost?
The dinner cruise on the Bosphorus has three different package offers. The prices for these packages start from 45€. These are as follows:
1- Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Turkish Night Show
Soft Drinks in this option: 45 €. Unlimited Alcoholic Drinks cost 60 €. We pick up our guests from their hotels and drop them off at their hotels. Our departure time is between 7-8 pm, and events lasts 3.5 hours. There is a free cancellation option up to 24 hours before our event starts.
2- Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Ottoman Night
Istanbul Dinner Cruise with Ottoman Night show, cruise the Bosphorus on a 3.5-hour dinner cruise and enjoy the magnificent view of the Ottoman palaces and the Blue Mosque under the magic of evening illuminations. Enjoy unlimited drinks and live entertainment on board. Moreover, soft Drinks in this option: 40 €. Unlimited Alcoholic Drinks cost 55 €.
How long is Bosphorus Dinner Cruise?
In general, our dinner tours take about 3.5 hours. Apart from that, you can customize this service with our Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with a Private Yacht option.
3- Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Private Yacht
The combination of panoramic Bosphorus views, delicious Turkish food, and attentive service on board make this a great place for an unforgettable dinner in Istanbul. In this option, the prices vary according to your wishes. Take-off is also optional. Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel or airport are offered.
Two-and-a-half-hour dinner cruise with Turkish buffet and live Turkish Night show (folk dance, belly dancer, live band). Boarding around 8 PM, sails past Dolmabahçe Palace and under the Bosphorus Bridge. From €30 per person — soft drinks included, English-speaking guide onboard.
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Frequently Asked Questions
We serve an open buffet dinner with traditional Turkish cuisine including grilled meats, fresh salads, rice dishes, mezze, and seasonal desserts. Vegetarian options are available on request.
Yes. The dinner cruise includes a Turkish Night show with belly dancing, whirling dervish performance, and traditional folk dances. Live music plays throughout the evening.
The dinner cruise lasts approximately 3.5 hours, departing in the evening. Plenty of time to enjoy dinner, watch the shows, and take in the illuminated Bosphorus views.
Soft drinks, water, tea, and coffee are included. Alcoholic beverages including local wine, beer, and raki are available for purchase on board at reasonable prices.
Yes, families are welcome. Children enjoy the shows and the boat experience. We can arrange a kids-friendly menu if you let us know in advance.
Smart casual is perfect. There is no strict dress code, but most guests dress nicely since it is an evening event. Comfortable shoes are recommended as you will be on a boat.
Absolutely. Let us know in advance and we can arrange a cake, decorations, and a special announcement during the evening. Many guests choose the dinner cruise for celebrations.
Yes. Our Private Bosphorus Dinner Yacht Cruise gives you a yacht exclusively for your group with a custom menu and flexible timing.
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Chloe Green (verified owner) –
A solid, well-run excursion. The convenience of door-to-door service is a major benefit. The boat is large, so even when full, there’s space. The dinner was okay; the starters were tasty, the chicken main was average. The unlimited drinks package is excellent value. The entertainment is fun and professional, creating a festive atmosphere. The night-time views are the main draw and they are spectacular. It’s a social, high-energy environment. The return process was efficient. For an all-inclusive evening that requires no planning, it’s a good choice and represents good value.
Bosphorus Sunset Team –
Thank you, Chloe! Door-to-door service on a spacious boat — even when full — is what sets this experience apart. Glad you had a solid, enjoyable evening!
— Bosphorus Sunset Team
Zara Khan (verified owner) –
Exceeded expectations. The organization was flawless. We were greeted warmly and shown to our table. The dinner was delicious—the fish was fresh and perfectly cooked, and the meze spread was a delightful way to start. The performances were outstanding in their authenticity and energy. The whirling dervish was a moving experience, and the folk dances were so vibrant. Sailing under the Bosphorus Bridge was a thrill. The staff were attentive and friendly. It’s a long evening but the variety of activities keeps it engaging. A wonderful, immersive way to experience Turkish culture and the city’s breathtaking nightscape.
Bosphorus Sunset Team –
Thank you, Zara! Flawless organization and fresh fish — that combination makes us proud. So happy we exceeded your expectations for the evening!
— Bosphorus Sunset Team
Iris May (verified owner) –
This is a great value-for-money activity. You get a lot: convenient transport, a full dinner, unlimited drinks, and a full show. The boat is fine, though it can feel crowded when everyone is seated for dinner. The food is good, not amazing—the meze platter was tasty. The entertainment is fun and professional, and they really get the audience involved. The night views are spectacular and something you can only get from the water. It’s a lively, party-like atmosphere, so be prepared for noise and energy. For a hassle-free, entertaining evening out, it’s an excellent choice.
Bosphorus Sunset Team –
Thank you for your honest feedback, Iris! We are happy you found it great value for money with the full dinner, unlimited drinks, and entertainment included. We are always working to improve every detail of the experience.
Karim Al-Fayed (verified owner) –
An exceptional evening of culture, cuisine, and captivating views. Everything was meticulously organized. The boat was lovely and not overcrowded. We were served a delicious meal with an incredible variety of mezes and a perfectly cooked main course. The performances were world-class—authentic, passionate, and deeply engaging. The whirling dervish was a profound artistic expression. Gliding past the illuminated palaces of the Bosphorus was a magical experience. The entire crew was courteous and professional. This cruise offers a perfect package for those wanting to experience the magic of Istanbul at night. A definite highlight.
Bosphorus Sunset Team –
Thank you, Karim! Your words about the exceptional evening of culture, cuisine, and captivating views truly capture what we aim to deliver. We are glad the boat was not overcrowded for your visit!
Jasper Cole (verified owner) –
An unforgettable evening of culture and beauty. The organization was seamless. The boat was lovely and not overcrowded. We enjoyed a delicious meal with an extensive selection of mezes and a perfectly cooked main course. The cultural performances were outstanding—authentic, passionate, and deeply engaging. The whirling dervish was a spiritual highlight. Sailing past the illuminated palaces and mosques was magical. The entire crew was friendly and professional. This cruise offers a perfect package of sightseeing, dining, and cultural entertainment. A must-do experience for anyone visiting Istanbul.
Bosphorus Sunset Team –
Thank you, Jasper! We are so happy the evening was unforgettable with seamless organization and a lovely, uncrowded atmosphere. The Bosphorus at night is truly magical!
Bosphorus Sunset Team –
Thank you, Jasper! A lovely, uncrowded boat with delicious food and seamless organization — the Bosphorus at its best. Glad the culture and beauty shone through!
— Bosphorus Sunset Team
Leo Zhang (verified owner) –
A beautifully executed evening that showcases the best of Istanbul. The pick-up was punctual and the guide was informative. Onboard, we were greeted warmly. The meal was a feast for the senses, with an array of delicious starters and a perfectly cooked grilled fish main. The cultural performances were outstanding—authentic, passionate, and deeply engaging. Sailing on the Bosphorus as the city lights twinkled was simply magical. The staff worked tirelessly to ensure everyone had a great time. This cruise perfectly combines sightseeing, dining, and cultural entertainment into one seamless, unforgettable experience. Highly recommended.
Bosphorus Sunset Team –
Thank you, Leo! We are delighted that you found the evening beautifully executed. Our team takes great pride in the punctual pickups and warm onboard welcome. We hope to see you on the Bosphorus again!
Darius King (verified owner) –
The Gold Package provided a truly luxurious and intimate experience for our special dinner. The private table had the best views on the boat. The service was impeccable—personalized, anticipatory, and discreet. The upgraded dinner was delicious, with refined options and presentation. We enjoyed the lively shows from our comfortable, secluded area. The premium drink selection was a nice bonus. While expensive, the enhanced privacy, comfort, and personalized attention made our celebration feel extraordinarily special. It’s the ideal upgrade for a romantic or milestone occasion.
Bosphorus Sunset Team –
Thank you, Darius! The Gold Package’s best views and luxurious service are designed for special dinners just like yours. So glad the private table delivered that intimate experience!
— Bosphorus Sunset Team
Elena Silva (verified owner) –
The Gold Package provided a five-star experience on the water. From the dedicated check-in to the escort to our private window table, we felt valued. The service was exceptional, with staff anticipating needs. The gourmet menu options were delicious and beautifully presented. The exclusive viewing area meant we had the best seats in the house for both the sights and the shows. The premium drink selection was a nice bonus. It is a significant investment, but for a romantic milestone celebration, it created an atmosphere of luxury and special occasion that the standard cruise could not match. We loved it.
Bosphorus Sunset Team –
Thank you, Elena! A five-star experience on the water is exactly what the Gold Package aims to deliver. Dedicated check-in and a private window table — so glad you felt truly valued!
— Bosphorus Sunset Team
Elena Rossi (verified owner) –
A fun and comprehensive evening. The all-inclusive setup is very convenient. The pickup was on time. The boat is large, though seating can be tight. The food was decent; the starters were the highlight. The open bar with local drinks is a great perk. The entertainment is lively and gets the crowd going. The night-time views of the Bosphorus are stunning. It’s a loud, social atmosphere—great for groups, less so for quiet conversation. The return transfer was efficient. For the price and what’s included, it’s a good deal and an enjoyable way to spend an evening.
Bosphorus Sunset Team –
Thank you, Elena! The all-inclusive convenience is a big draw for our guests. We note your feedback about seating — arriving early always helps secure the best spots!
— Bosphorus Sunset Team
Henry Ford (verified owner) –
This tour delivers exactly what it advertises: a fun evening with dinner, drinks, and shows on the Bosphorus. The pickup was easy. The boat was large and we found a spot on the side deck which was nice. The food was okay; the meze selection was the highlight. The unlimited local drinks are a great perk and the service was fast. The entertainment is cheesy but in a fun, engaging way—they get the audience involved. The night views are stunning. It’s a boisterous, social atmosphere. For the price and the all-inclusive nature, it’s a good deal and a fun night out.
Bosphorus Sunset Team –
Thank you for the straightforward review, Henry! We are glad the tour delivered exactly as advertised with dinner, drinks, and shows. We appreciate your feedback and hope to see you again!