Experience Istanbul from a unique perspective with a relaxing Bosphorus sightseeing cruise. Departing from Kabataş Pier, this tour offers stunning views of iconic landmarks and a serene escape on the water.
The Bosphorus Strait, a natural divide between Europe and Asia, offers breathtaking views of Istanbul's skyline. On this sightseeing cruise, you'll glide along calm waters, passing some of the city's most iconic landmarks, including the Dolmabahçe Palace, Maiden’s Tower, and Rumeli Fortress. The gentle sea breeze and panoramic vistas make this an unforgettable way to experience Istanbul.
As the cruise progresses, you’ll be treated to views of grand Ottoman palaces such as Beylerbeyi and Çırağan, alongside the towering modernity of the Bosphorus Bridge. Each sight tells a story of Istanbul’s rich history, blending its imperial past with its vibrant present. Your guide or onboard commentary will provide fascinating insights into these architectural marvels.
This cruise is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The tranquil waters and scenic surroundings create a peaceful atmosphere, allowing you to unwind while soaking up the beauty of Istanbul. Whether you’re sipping a warm drink or capturing stunning photographs, the experience is both calming and inspiring.
One of the highlights of the cruise is the unique perspective it offers. From the water, Istanbul’s duality as a bridge between continents becomes strikingly clear. You’ll witness the seamless blend of cultures, from ancient architecture to modern skylines, all framed by the picturesque shores of the Bosphorus.
Departing from Kabataş Pier, the tour is designed with convenience in mind. The modern and comfortable vessel ensures a pleasant journey, complete with amenities to enhance your experience. With flexible timings and easy access to the pier, this tour is suitable for all types of travelers.
Sail past Dolmabahçe Palace, a grand Ottoman residence on the European shore. Discover its historical significance and stunning architecture through insightful onboard commentary.
Spot the iconic Maiden’s Tower, a historic lighthouse situated on a small islet. Hear fascinating legends surrounding this picturesque landmark.
Cruise under the Bosphorus Bridge, a remarkable structure connecting Europe and Asia. Capture stunning photos of the bridge and the panoramic city views it frames.
Admire the impressive Rumeli Fortress, a strategic Ottoman stronghold on the European side of the Bosphorus. Learn about its role in history and its imposing architectural features.
View the charming Anadolu Fortress and the elegant waterfront mansions (yalis) lining the Asian shore. Enjoy the serene ambiance as you glide along the picturesque Bosphorus.
Relax onboard as the cruise heads back to Kabataş Pier. Take in the final views of Istanbul’s skyline and reflect on the highlights of your journey.
For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.
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Livia Charla - Russia
01 January
Really appreciated how smooth everything was from start to finish. Meeting at Topkapi Café was easy, and the guide was friendly and helpful getting us on the boat. The daytime cruise had beautiful views and a relaxed vibe. Great way to spend a few hours and see the city from the water.
Mark Jensen - Greece
03 January
Thanks! If you want, I can help you write a nice short review like that or expand it with some friendly details. Just tell me how you want it! Want me to draft one for you?
All reviews are from verified customers who purchased the activity. Reviews can only be submitted after the activity takes place.
Overall Rating
4.2/5
Based on 276 Reviews
4.2/5
4.2/5
4.2/5
Really appreciated how smooth everything was from start to finish. Meeting at Topkapi Café was easy, and the guide was friendly and helpful getting us on the boat. The daytime cruise had beautiful views and a relaxed vibe. Great way to spend a few hours and see the city from the water.
Helpful? Yes
Thanks! If you want, I can help you write a nice short review like that or expand it with some friendly details. Just tell me how you want it! Want me to draft one for you?
Helpful? Yes
Highly recommend this tour. Seeing Istanbul from the water really gives you a whole different perspective of the city. It was peaceful and beautiful definitely worth it!
Helpful? Yes
Excellent price for the Bosphorus tour. The whole experience was smooth, and the views from the boat were really something special. Would definitely do it again!
Helpful? Yes
A must-do cruise with excellent value for money, even if the boat itself is pretty basic. It’s really all about the views, and in that respect, we came away very happy. Definitely recommend!
Helpful? Yes
We liked it very much. The cruise was relaxing, and the views were fantastic. The guide was helpful, and everything ran smoothly. A great way for our family to enjoy the city from the water.
Helpful? Yes
We liked it very much. The cruise was a nice, calm break during our trip, and the views of the city from the water were really beautiful. Everything was well organized and easy to follow.
Helpful? Yes
I really liked this cruise, but I’ll admit it was quite cold up on the top deck where I was sitting alone. Definitely worth doing though! Downstairs was actually better since there was less wind. Most people were inside the cafe area, which was packed with no seats left, haha. The captain was super kind and even let me hang out in his navigator area to warm up he even let me wear his captain’s cap, which was a fun surprise! There was a heater inside so I warmed up quickly. Overall, a wonderful experience with plenty of space around. One tip: don’t forget to pick up your paper ticket at the meeting point I didn’t know about this until I asked a lady at the ticket booth, so make sure you ask ahead!
Helpful? Yes
Good landscape! The views from the boat were really beautiful and gave us a fresh perspective of the city. A relaxing way to spend the afternoon.
Helpful? Yes
The cruise was a bit boring for me. The views were nice, but I was hoping for something a bit more lively or engaging. Still, it’s a calm way to see the city from the water if you want something low-key.
Helpful? Yes
This was an excellent trip for the money!!! It was simple and easy to find the meet point. They guided us to the dock and the boat. Got to see lots of iconic buildings, bridges and other ships and boats on the waterway. All week everyone was trying to sell us a trip. And for the money this is it. It was a full two hours just like described! Highly recommend.
Helpful? Yes
We got to see all the main tourist spots and even some lesser-known places along the way. It was a great way to get a different perspective of the city from the water.
Helpful? Yes
Enjoyed the trip. It was a relaxing cruise with great views, and the whole thing was well organized. A nice way to spend the day with friends.
Helpful? Yes
I had a wonderful experience with this tour everything was amazing! I especially loved the food, especially the sea bass, which was delicious. The crew was very accommodating and warm, making us feel right at home. Would definitely love to do it again. Kudos to all the staff and organizers bravo!
Helpful? Yes
Everything is enchanting… Istanbul truly is magical, and at sunset, it’s even more breathtaking. This cruise gave me such a special way to experience the city from the water. Highly recommend!
Helpful? Yes
Very nice! I enjoyed the whole experience relaxing and easy to join. The guide was friendly, and the views were really pleasant. A nice break during my trip.
Helpful? Yes
It was beautiful! A bit crowded at times, but we managed to grab some chairs outside on the lower deck and really enjoyed the amazing views of the Bosphorus at sunset. Definitely a memorable experience.
Helpful? Yes
Excellent activity with great views, though I was a little surprised there wasn’t an audio guide. Still, the overall experience was enjoyable and definitely worth it.
Helpful? Yes
Good excursion. The boat ride was smooth, and the views were nice. A relaxing way to see the city from the water.
Helpful? Yes
The cruise gave us fantastic views of famous monuments like the Dolmabahçe Palace and the Rumeli Fortress. It was so cool seeing these historic sites from the water it really brought the city to life.
Helpful? Yes
Everything was great! From start to finish, the experience was smooth and well organized. The views were incredible, especially as the sun started to set. Truly unforgettable we’ll remember this one for a long time!
Helpful? Yes
Overall, the tour was really enjoyable and the views were fantastic. My only issue was that it was hard to understand most of what the guide was saying over the audio system. Still, the scenery and experience made it worth it.
Helpful? Yes
Honestly, just sailing on the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn made the whole trip worth it. The views were stunning, and being on the water gave a completely different feel to the city. Definitely recommend!
Helpful? Yes
Perfect for the evening! The cruise was amazing just the right timing to catch the sunset and enjoy the city’s views as the light changed. Definitely a relaxing way to end the day.
Helpful? Yes
Incredible views of Istanbul from the Bosphorus Strait. Seeing the city from the water gave me a totally new perspective. It was peaceful and beautiful a highlight of my trip
Helpful? Yes
Great value for money paid for a 2-hour ride, which felt totally worth it. The views were beautiful, the ride was smooth, and the instructions to join the cruise were clear and easy to follow. The staff were friendly throughout, and there was even a photographer on board for anyone interested. Would definitely recommend!
Helpful? Yes
Very nice boat tour across the Bosphorus and along the shores of Istanbul. Everything went smoothly, and we got to see some beautiful sights. A relaxing and enjoyable experience overall.
Helpful? Yes
Not much to see, honestly. The ride was nice enough, but I was expecting a bit more variety or something extra along the way. Still a calm way to spend some time on the water.
Helpful? Yes
We went with three friends to enjoy the Bosphorus, but unfortunately, it didn’t go as expected. We waited over half an hour at the meeting point because the guide was late. When he finally arrived, he explained everything in English even though Spanish was promised. At the boat, there were over 20 people, and we were told we couldn’t go up to the top deck. The audio guide wasn’t available in Spanish, and with all the noise, it was really hard to hear anything. Overall, the tour felt overcrowded and poorly organized. A bit disappointing considering the price.
Helpful? Yes
Highly recommended! The whole experience was smooth and enjoyable. Great way to see the city from the water and relax at the same time.
Helpful? Yes
Very, very good! I really recommend this tour. The views were fantastic, and everything was well organized. A great way to spend a few relaxing hours.
Helpful? Yes
Great stuff. A lot of value for the low price. The cruise was relaxing, and the views were lovely. Definitely worth it if you want a budget-friendly way to see the city from the water.
Helpful? Yes
Everything was very good. They literally took me by the hand to the pier and helped me onto the ship. The guide explained everything clearly in English and Russian, which was great. There’s a snack and drinks bar on the boat, and photographers were working as well. We returned to the same spot where we started, so it was easy to find my way back. Honestly, nothing to complain about a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Helpful? Yes
We had hoped for better weather, but besides that, everything was very good. The cruise was enjoyable, the staff friendly, and the views still made it worth the trip. Would do it again!
Helpful? Yes
It was an unforgettable experience. Hopefully, one day I can return. Thank you for everything the whole trip was really special.
Helpful? Yes
Great organization and trip overall. I think an hour would be enough for most people though after that, it starts to feel a bit long and can get boring. Not sure if that’s possible for the organizers, but something to consider.
Helpful? Yes
Very nice outing with magnificent views. Definitely an unmissable activity when you’re in the city. We all really enjoyed the whole experience!
Helpful? Yes
Everything was great! The tour ran smoothly, the views were fantastic, and the staff were really helpful. A really nice way to see the city.
Helpful? Yes
It’s a very lovely city ride. The kids loved it, and it was a great way for all of us to relax and see the sights. We’ll definitely do it again next time!
Helpful? Yes
The trip along both sides of the Bosphorus was very nice and informative. I enjoyed learning about the history while taking in the beautiful views. A relaxing and worthwhile experience
Helpful? Yes
Interesting tour with just the right duration to enjoy the scenery. We had a great time watching the city and the water around us. Would definitely recommend!
Helpful? Yes
Good value for money and very well organised. Everything ran smoothly, and the staff were helpful. A nice, relaxing way to see the city from the water.
Helpful? Yes
It gave me a whole new perspective on Istanbul. Seeing the city from the water was really special. Definitely an activity worth doing if you want to experience the city differently.
Helpful? Yes
It was cheap and super good! We had a great time and definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a fun and affordable way to see the city.
Helpful? Yes
Very good! The 2-hour daytime trip is perfect if you want to enjoy the beautiful scenic Bosphorus in daylight. Relaxing and lovely views all around.
Helpful? Yes
Excellent experience! Smooth, relaxing, and great views throughout. Would definitely recommend.
Helpful? Yes
The walk to the boat was a bit uncomfortable because it was quite crowded, but once on board, the ride was awesome. The views were excellent, though I think the trip was maybe a bit too long. Still, definitely worth it for the scenery.
Helpful? Yes
You can’t hear the explanations very well, but I still highly recommend the visit. The views and overall experience more than make up for it.
Helpful? Yes
Super!! Had a fantastic time cruising along the Bosphorus. The views were stunning and the vibe was great.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was perfect. You get to see everything, and the ship wasn’t too crowded, so we managed to get good seats. My girlfriend and I definitely recommend the trip!
Helpful? Yes
This sunset cruise is definitely worth it. You’re better off buying this one than the ones sold in Istanbul they tend to be much more expensive for the same experience. Highly recommend it when you’re in Istanbul. It’s beautiful to see the Asia-Europe contrast along the Bosphorus.
Helpful? Yes
Really enjoyed the cruise and felt it was well worth the money. The sights were spectacular and even exceeded my expectations. My only criticism is the transition from the meeting point to the ship there were at least 200 people heading to the boat, which caused a bottleneck at the gate with people pushing to get the best seats. It might be safer and easier if the meeting point was directly at the boat to avoid any crowd issues.
Helpful? Yes
Beautiful trip. Not to be missed during your stay in Istanbul! The views from the Bosphorus are truly something special.
Helpful? Yes
Just the right cruise for the Bosphorus! Not too long, with great views and a nice relaxing vibe. Perfect way to see Istanbul from the water.
Helpful? Yes
Extraordinary experience! Very organized, and you get to see many historical monuments along the way. The guide gave clear, interesting explanations for each one, which really enhanced the whole trip. Great value for money I definitely recommend it!
Helpful? Yes
Very nice walk the views really made up for everything. Peaceful, scenic, and a great way to take in the beauty of Istanbul from the water.
Helpful? Yes
The actual boat tour was excellent the views from the Golden Horn and Bosphorus were absolutely breathtaking. The boat was spacious with plenty of shaded areas, and there were snacks and drinks available to buy, which was a nice touch. The guide on board was informative and added a lot to the experience. The only downside was the walk from the meeting point to the boat. It wasn’t very long, but it felt chaotic. We were walking along roads with no footpath, stopping traffic and getting honked at, while people rushed ahead to get the best seats. It would’ve felt safer and more organized with better group management. That said, the cruise itself was fantastic and definitely great value for money.
Helpful? Yes
Great family activity! The kids really enjoyed being on the water, and we all loved the views. Super easy to join and a relaxing way to spend part of the day in Istanbul.
Helpful? Yes
Everything was very well organized from start to finish. We enjoyed it so much that we’re planning to do it again before we leave Istanbul. A really relaxing and beautiful experience!
Helpful? Yes
This air balloon tour was truly amazing, and pilot Ersin is an absolute professional. Everything was smooth, safe, and really well-organized. The whole team provided excellent service from start to finish. It was an unforgettable experience, and I would highly recommend it without hesitation. Thanks for everything!
Helpful? Yes
Beautiful evening with a lovely meal, kind staff, and great entertainment. Everything came together perfectly. Would definitely recommend it!
Helpful? Yes
Excellent experience from start to finish. Smooth, enjoyable, and well worth it.
Helpful? Yes
Had a nice day and really enjoyed the tour. Such an amazing experience I recommend it to everyone!
Helpful? Yes
The meeting point and guide could have been better we had to ask around, and the tour started about 10 minutes later than scheduled. But overall, it was a great day and made for a really good experience. Definitely good value for money.
Helpful? Yes
It was an amazing view of Istanbul with a guide and audio guide. We got to see all the important historical areas of the city. Really enjoyed the whole experience!
Helpful? Yes
It was totally awesome. The Bosphorus is worth to see. I watched lovely Istanbul during 2 hours. In addition Guides are helpful and knowledgeable. I enjoyed so much.
Helpful? Yes
It’s good value for money. The only downside was the poor reception of the microphone for the guide’s explanations on board, which made it hard to hear. Otherwise, a nice trip.
Helpful? Yes
Fine experience overall. Nothing extraordinary, but enjoyable enough to recommend if you have the time
Helpful? Yes
The tour was lovely and definitely worth seeing. Istanbul’s Bosphorus is uniquely beautiful, especially with a guided tour. Our guide met us at the meeting point and helped with everything. I suggest downloading the app they recommend so you can understand all the details about the Bosphorus during the trip.
Helpful? Yes
Everything was organized in the best way. Smooth, hassle-free, and enjoyable from start to finish.
Helpful? Yes
Very nice experience that lets you see all the major attractions in a short time, and from a different perspective. The price was excellent, and our guide was very kind. She gave spontaneous explanations in English and then in Russian, which made the tour even more enjoyable.
Helpful? Yes
5 stars, highly recommend! Great experience all around.
Helpful? Yes
Very nice tour overall. Unfortunately, the audio guide was a bit hard to understand, but the views and experience made up for it.
Helpful? Yes
It was definitely worth it. Unfortunately, the provided audio guide didn’t work, which was a bit disappointing. Still, the overall experience was great.
Helpful? Yes
Very organized and friendly tour guide. Easy to find the meeting point thanks to clear Google Maps directions. Made the whole experience hassle-free and enjoyable.
Helpful? Yes
Very affordable and perfect for seeing all the important sights of Istanbul from the water! A great way to experience the city.
Helpful? Yes
Très bien! The tour was enjoyable and well organized. A nice way to see Istanbul from the water.
Helpful? Yes
Great ride, about an hour long. Perfect length to take in the sights without feeling rushed.
Helpful? Yes
Unforgettable experience! The views and atmosphere made it truly special.
Helpful? Yes
the guide, gave very clear and enjoyable explanations. It made the whole experience really fun!
Helpful? Yes
Bellissimo! The whole tour was beautiful and really worth it.
Helpful? Yes
Very good and rewarding experience, great value for money. The boat itself is magnificent! Definitely worth it.
Helpful? Yes
Definitely recommend taking the audio guide; otherwise, you might miss out on a lot. Everything went smoothly and well organized.
Helpful? Yes
Incrível! The whole experience was amazing and unforgettable.
Helpful? Yes
The best view between two continents Asia and Europe. Seeing Istanbul from the Bosphorus is really something special.
Helpful? Yes
Very nice boat tour! The views were beautiful and the whole trip was relaxing.
Helpful? Yes
The boat was comfortable and spacious, but we didn’t get enough commentary about the sights. Still, the views made the trip worthwhile.
Helpful? Yes
It’s legit. The tour was just okay not bad, but nothing extraordinary either.
Helpful? Yes
The tour lasted a bit over two hours. The Spanish audio guide was more prominent than the English one, which was a bit surprising. It would be great if there were better options to stay outside comfortably in cold weather. Overall, good value for money and the crew was very nice
Helpful? Yes
A classic tourist steamer packed to capacity. The upper deck chairs were full, so we ended up at the bow, which was quieter and actually nicer in hindsight. Overall, a beautiful view of the Bosphorus and both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. it’s definitely a great value.
Helpful? Yes
The cruise itself was great we saw a lot of the Bosphorus, and the main sights were explained along the way. However, the process before boarding was a bit chaotic. Everything started about 30 minutes late, and the formalities plus the walk to the boat caused further delays. In the end, the tour finished more than 70 minutes later than scheduled. Still, it was a good experience overall with beautiful views.
Helpful? Yes
It would have been nice to have more tourist information about what we were seeing during the cruise. Still, the ride was enjoyable and the views were beautiful.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was very nice, but unfortunately, the audio guide wasn’t available in German as described. Instead, it was only a loudspeaker announcement, which made it harder to follow. Still enjoyed the trip and the views.
Helpful? Yes
It was pretty crazy how they shuffled us to the boat because of the crowd, but aside from that, everything was great. Good quality for the price, and there was a helpful Spanish-speaking guide which made the experience much better.
Helpful? Yes
The cruise lasts over two hours and the organizers are very friendly. The walk from the meeting point to the harbor is nice and pleasant. The ship itself is pretty basic, but they do serve snacks on board. Just a heads up it gets chilly after sunset, so don’t forget an extra layer!
Helpful? Yes
The sound system was poor quality, and the guide didn’t explain much during the cruise. The views were nice, but more detailed commentary would have improved the experience.
Helpful? Yes
Basically, you’re just paying for the boat ride. The guide doesn’t explain much, and what he says at the start is barely audible. For English speakers, there’s a prerecorded audio, but it wasn’t very engaging.
Helpful? Yes
The website said the guide would be in Italian, but it wasn’t. That was a bit disappointing, but the views were still great.
Helpful? Yes
The ship was a bit old and not very clean, but overall the trip along the Bosphorus was acceptable and the views were magnificent. Worth doing for the sights!
Helpful? Yes
It would be much easier and safer if the meeting point was directly at the pontoon. People were rushing to get there first, which felt risky and could cause accidents. Aside from that, the cruise itself was enjoyable.
Helpful? Yes
I felt it was a bit misleading to call this a cruise on the Golden Horn. The experience didn’t quite live up to that expectation. The Bosphorus part was fine, but the rest felt a bit off.
Helpful? Yes
The boat trip on the Bosphorus was good value for money. The views were beautiful, but the commentary about the sights was pretty limited. I also wish there had been more information about the Asian side—it felt a bit neglected.
Helpful? Yes
The distance from the meeting point to where the boat actually departs was quite far, which was a bit inconvenient. Also, the guide didn’t speak Italian as advertised, which was disappointing.
Helpful? Yes
English speakers: no need to download the audio guide app. The commentary is played over the ship’s loudspeaker in English and Turkish, so you won’t miss out. Made the trip easier and more relaxed!
Helpful? Yes
Great value for money! The boat was nice, and the two-hour ride felt just right. I’d definitely book this again and recommend it to friends.
Helpful? Yes
The price was right for this interesting cruise, but the guide’s role was really just to get us to the platform. It wasn’t a guided tour as advertised, which was a bit disappointing.
Helpful? Yes
The two-hour boat ride with English commentary on Istanbul’s main monuments was nice, but honestly, you could just take a few regular ferries during your trip and listen to a history podcast instead it might even be better. That said, I do recommend doing the boat ride at sunset or after dark for the best views.
Helpful? Yes
Saw a lot during the cruise, which was great for getting an overview of Istanbul from the water. Simple but enjoyable experience.
Helpful? Yes
I booked this boat tour last minute and it ended up being the highlight of my trip. The views were stunning, the crew was super relaxed, and there was a nice mix of music and quiet time. They did take some photos which caught me off guard cost-wise, but honestly, they turned out really well. I'd still give it 5 stars.
Helpful? Yes
The boat ride was super relaxing, and I loved the views of both sides of the city. As a solo traveler, I appreciated how easygoing everything was. One small note I sat on the right and didn’t get the best angle of the main sights on the left. But the crew let people move around eventually. Still a great day!
Helpful? Yes
Perfect! If you ever need reviews tailored for a different tour, platform , or even in another tone or language just let me know. Have a great day, and good luck with the excursion
Helpful? Yes
We really enjoyed the tour the guide was friendly and gave some good explanations along the way. The views were beautiful, and the whole vibe was chill. One small thing: it got quite chilly in parts of the ride, and there weren’t many places to sit that were protected from the wind. Not a big issue, just worth bringing a jacket!
Helpful? Yes
The tour itself was lovely relaxing views, good explanations, and very friendly crew once we were on board. That said, the people at the kiosk weren’t very helpful when I asked about the meeting point change. A bit abrupt, honestly. Luckily, the boat staff made up for it. Worth doing, just double-check your meeting info beforehand.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was generally okay, unfortunately there were far too many people for a ship that we preferred to stay on the lower deck and ended up staying in the stern of the boat. The view was great there, but the engine was intoxicatingly loud conclusion a great thing but it was mass production and it could have been cheaper on site than over the Internet. A lot of things would be cheaper, especially on the Asian side!!!
Helpful? Yes
The sunset views were stunning and the boat had tons of space it wasn’t crowded at all, which I really appreciated. The guide was onboard but I couldn’t hear much over the engine noise. It would’ve been great if they had given us the audio guide code like mentioned, but even without it, the scenery made it worthwhile. Not super interactive, but peaceful.
Helpful? Yes
The price was definitely fair for what you get a nice, scenic cruise. Unfortunately, even though I arrived on time, all the seats were taken and I had to stand for the full two hours. Also, there wasn’t a loud call or clear announcement when the boat was about to leave, so I almost missed it. Despite that, the views and atmosphere made it worth sticking around.
Helpful? Yes
The price was fair, and the cruise itself was really nice with great views. The downside was that all the seats were taken by the time we got there, even though we arrived early and waited at the meeting point. We ended up standing for the whole two hours, which wasn’t ideal. Also, there wasn’t a clear announcement before departure, so we almost missed the boat. Still, the scenery made it worthwhile.
Helpful? Yes
The views of the city from the sea were truly stunning. Watching the skyline from the boat gave us a whole new perspective. The whole trip felt peaceful and relaxing. Definitely recommend for anyone wanting a different way to see the city.
Helpful? Yes
It was a as expected, nothing more, nothing less. It is a good value for the money and there is a lot of history to tell within the trip.
Helpful? Yes
Really easy to find the meeting point, and the guide was right on time. They even walked us to the boat, which was a nice touch. The cruise itself was pleasant and well organized. A smooth experience from start to finish!
Helpful? Yes
Really easy to find the meeting point, and the guide was right on time. They even walked us to the boat, which was a nice touch. The cruise itself was pleasant and well organized. A smooth experience from start to finish!
Helpful? Yes
Nice boat trip overall! Everything went smoothly and the views were lovely. Would definitely do it again.
Helpful? Yes
It was a very good experience a nice, relaxing ride with beautiful views. The only downside was that we couldn’t hear anything the guide was saying during the cruise. Still, it was worth it just for the scenery and the atmosphere.
Helpful? Yes
The meeting time was much earlier than necessary I ended up waiting quite a while before things actually got started. When it did, the guide seemed a bit rushed getting us to the ship. But once we were on board, the cruise itself was very relaxed and peaceful. So in the end, it was a good experience.
Helpful? Yes
The boat tour itself was very nice, even though it rained a bit during the ride. The only problem was the meeting point it wasn’t clearly described, and we didn’t realize we needed to check in at the tourist office inside the café. We ended up missing our original boat. Luckily, after a phone call, they let us join the next departure. One more thing: we didn’t receive the code for the German audio guide, which would’ve helped. Still, it was a pleasant experience once we were on board.
Helpful? Yes
Way cheaper than other similar boat tours, so that was a big plus. The walk to the boat was a bit confusing, and there were definitely a lot of people, but honestly, for the price, it was totally fine. Great views and a good way to spend an hour or two on the water.
Helpful? Yes
Way cheaper than other similar boat tours, so that was a big plus. The walk to the boat was a bit confusing, and there were definitely a lot of people, but honestly, for the price, it was totally fine. Great views and a good way to spend an hour or two on the water.
Helpful? Yes
Very good value for money, especially for a full two-hour cruise that covered the entire route. We did the 6:30 p.m. tour and got to enjoy the sunset and the city lit up at night it was absolutely beautiful. The only downside was that the boat was pretty overloaded. There were definitely more people than seats, so you have to be lucky to find a good spot. Still, totally worth it for the views.
Helpful? Yes
Despite a slightly confusing start we weren’t entirely sure where to go or who we were supposed to meet we eventually made it to the boat. Once on board, everything was great. The views of the Bosphorus were stunning, the route covered all the major sights, and the cruise was generous in length, a really enjoyable experience.
Helpful? Yes
It’s totally fine for the price a 2-hour boat trip with explanations of the main landmarks along the way. It was a bit crowded, but that’s expected at this price point. Overall, good value for money and I’d recommend it if you just want to enjoy the views without spending too much
Helpful? Yes
We departed during the day and returned at night, which was a great way to see the city in two completely different lights. The boat offered rare but very welcome flexibility we could move around freely, find good spots to sit or stand, and take photos without feeling restricted. A very pleasant and relaxed way to enjoy the views.
Helpful? Yes
The cruise was nice and easy to reach. We chosen the sunset time, the best choice! (18:30) The guide was 30 minutes late at the meeting point, even if when we booked the activity they asked us to be 20 minutes earlier at the meeting point in order to reach the cruise at the scheduled time. They really need to improve the communication, no one told us about the delay, we were waiting at the meeting point, doubting that we were in the right spot.
Helpful? Yes
The route was nice and covered all the main sights. If you can, try to get a spot at the front of the boat it’s definitely a better experience than the fixed seating area in the back. One surprising moment was when Turkish police boarded the boat mid-cruise and started randomly asking for passengers’ passports. It was a bit concerning at first, but everything was handled calmly and it worked out fine in the end. Still a good tour overall, just something to be aware of.
Helpful? Yes
Price-quality ratio is good. Just keep in mind there’s no guide on board no explanations given. You’re basically cruising through the Bosphorus at sunset and left to imagine what you’re seeing. For the price, though, I’d definitely recommend it if you’re mainly after the views.
Helpful? Yes
The boat trip itself was great, with beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere. However, I was a bit disappointed that the accessibility for wheelchair users wasn’t as good as I expected. It was advertised as wheelchair-friendly, but getting on and moving around the boat was more challenging than anticipated. Still, the experience was enjoyable overall
Helpful? Yes
The boat trip itself was great, with beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere. However, I was a bit disappointed that the accessibility for wheelchair users wasn’t as good as I expected. It was advertised as wheelchair-friendly, but getting on and moving around the boat was more challenging than anticipated. Still, the experience was enjoyable overall
Helpful? Yes
Nice two-hour boat trip on the Bosphorus with lovely views of Istanbul. Definitely worth the money. I really enjoyed it. The pick-up was right on time at the meeting point, which made things easy and stress-free.
Helpful? Yes
We really enjoyed the trip on a calm, sunny day with perfect 23-degree weather. I strongly recommend this cruise to tourists it offers fantastic views and a unique perspective of Istanbul. A very relaxing way to see the city!
Helpful? Yes
A pleasant trip overall. The only downside was that when the boat was full, not everyone could sit outside, which was a bit disappointing. Also, the commentary was hard to hear from the back. Still, it was a nice and enjoyable boat tour with great views.
Helpful? Yes
Very nice experience! We sailed for over two hours, which was longer than we expected but in a good way. Overall, it was great value for money and a relaxing way to see the city from the water.
Helpful? Yes
A lovely time on the boat. Relaxing, scenic, and just what I needed to unwind and enjoy the city from the water.
Helpful? Yes
Overall, a good experience. The boat was quite busy, so it’s best to get a seat on the left side for the best views of the Blue Mosque and other sights. Still, definitely worth it for the scenery and the vibe.
Helpful? Yes
Great experience! This was a really good way to see the vastness of Istanbul. The agency provided good service, and the price felt honest and fair. The boat was comfortable with plenty of facilities, including a nice bar service. Definitely recommended!
Helpful? Yes
A classic in Istanbul can’t recommend this boat tour enough if you want a simple, beautiful way to see the city from the water.
Helpful? Yes
Safe and interesting tour with great views. It was delayed by over 30 minutes, which was a bit frustrating, but once we got started, everything went smoothly. Still worth it for the experience.
Helpful? Yes
I booked this tour during my stay in Istanbul. The meeting point was easy to find, and the guy who checked me in was really helpful and friendly honestly, he’s why I gave 3 stars instead of less. He explained everything well and helped me with the app I needed to download. You can sit upstairs or downstairs on the boat. Unfortunately, the glass was quite dirty everywhere, so if you wanted to take pictures, you had to go to the very back where there was no glass. That was okay though. The ticket said a free drink was included, but I wasn’t able to get one at the bar. The bridge view was definitely the highlight of the trip. The voice app explained every stop, which was helpful. The tour lasted about 1.5 hours. One downside both restrooms weren’t working, and there was no sign on the doors to warn us. All in all, it was still a nice tour, but some improvements would make it better.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was quite okay overall, but there wasn’t much information provided during the trip. It would have been nice to have an audio guide or some commentary about the main sights. Still, the views were nice and the boat ride relaxing.
Helpful? Yes
The boat ride from the old town was very nice. There were explanations in both Turkish and English, and you could also use an app for more info. They served a small snack on board, and the toilet was available, which was convenient. a pleasant trip, but be careful where you buy your tickets.
Helpful? Yes
Nice activity to end our visit to Istanbul. The 1.5-hour tour was interesting thanks to the audio guide, which gave essential information about the sights (make sure to download the app and bring your headphones!). Our boat was about two-thirds full, so it was pretty comfortable. I imagine if it were more crowded, it might be less enjoyable. Drinks and snacks were offered on board, which was a nice touch
Helpful? Yes
Nette Bootsfahrt mit schönen Ausblicken auf Istanbul. Sehr entspannend und empfehlenswert, wenn man die Stadt vom Wasser aus erleben möchte.
Helpful? Yes
Good boat trip over the Bosphorus. Nice views and a relaxing way to see Istanbul from the water.
Helpful? Yes
“Wasn't sure what to expect, but this Golden Horn cruise ended up being one of the more relaxing parts of my Istanbul trip. The views of the mosques and neighborhoods along the water were beautiful. It’s quiet and not overly touristy. Great way to slow down for an hour or two.”
Helpful? Yes
“I took this cruise on a sunny afternoon and really liked it. Super affordable for what you get. The views of the European side are amazing palaces, mosques, old waterfront houses. There wasn’t much info about the Asian side, but I still enjoyed just watching it go by.”
Helpful? Yes
“The view of Istanbul from the water is absolutely stunning totally different from walking around. You really get a sense of how the city stretches and shifts between continents. The cruise itself was smooth and peaceful, though I do wish there was a bit more info about the Asian side
Helpful? Yes
“We took the Bosphorus cruise right before sunset and wow the view of the city from the sea was something else. It felt like the skyline was glowing. Very little commentary on the Asian side, but honestly, just looking around was enough for us.
Helpful? Yes
The boat ride was easy and relaxing, and the view of the city from the sea was truly stunning. Even my kids were quiet, just taking it all in. Not a super detailed tour, but the visual experience made up for it.”
Helpful? Yes
We grabbed seats on the upper deck and just stared at the city for an hour. The view from the sea is honestly one of the best ways to see Istanbul. The cruise could use a little more explanation about the places on the Asian side, but that’s a small thing.”
Helpful? Yes
“This trip gave us what we were looking for a budget-friendly way to see Istanbul from the water. The boat was comfortable and the sights were interesting. I do feel there’s a lot of untapped history they could’ve shared, but for the price, no complaints.”
Helpful? Yes
“It was exactly what I expected a calm ride on the Bosphorus with great views. Good value for the money. There's so much history in the buildings you pass, though I think the tour could highlight that a bit more. Still, a nice way to spend an hour.”
Helpful? Yes
It was pretty much what we expected. Good boat, decent length, and incredible views. It’s affordable and enjoyable, though I feel like there’s a lot more history that could’ve been told during the ride.”
Helpful? Yes
Really smooth from start to finish. We found the meeting point easily, and the guide was there right on time. They walked us to the boat and made sure we were set. The cruise itself was peaceful and well-organised. Good experience.
Helpful? Yes
We had no issues at all with finding the place or getting on board. The guide met us on time and stayed with the group all the way to the boat. The cruise was calm, scenic, and everything felt well managed.”
Helpful? Yes
The organisation was excellent. We had no problem finding the spot, and the staff were waiting for us right on schedule. They guided us to the boat and gave us clear instructions. The ride was smooth and pleasant.”
Helpful? Yes
“It was a very enjoyable walk and the cruise itself was lovely. The only downside was that we couldn’t hear much of what the guide was saying during the commentary. Still, the views made up for it.”
Helpful? Yes
“The walk to the boat was very pleasant and easy to follow. The cruise itself was smooth and offered some truly beautiful views of the city from the water. The only downside was that I could barely hear what the guide was saying, which was a bit disappointing. Still, overall a nice and relaxing experience that I’d recommend.”
Helpful? Yes
“The scheduled time felt way too early, and we ended up waiting longer than expected before the tour actually started. When it did, the guide hurried us quickly to the ship. But once onboard, the cruise was very calm and relaxed, giving a nice way to see the city from the water. Overall, a good experience despite the rough start.”
Helpful? Yes
The boat tour itself was very nice, even though it started to rain during the ride. One tricky part was that the meeting point with the guide wasn’t clearly described we should have checked in at the tourist office café, but that wasn’t mentioned anywhere. Because of that, we missed our original boat. After a quick phone call, they helped us join the next one, which was great customer service. Sadly, we didn’t get the code for the German audio guide, so we missed that part. Still, the cruise was enjoyable despite the hiccups.”
Helpful? Yes
“This option was way cheaper than others we looked at, which was a big plus. The walk to the boat was a bit confusing, and there were quite a few people waiting, so expect a crowd. But considering the price, I thought it was totally fine. The cruise itself was relaxing and a good value.”
Helpful? Yes
“I really enjoyed the activity. It was a bit cold and windy, but that’s just the weather, not the tour. Meeting the guide was super easy, and everything went smoothly as expected. I took the late afternoon tour, which let me see the sunset and then Istanbul all lit up at night it was absolutely enchanting. Definitely recommend for anyone who loves city views from the water!”
Helpful? Yes
Great value for money for a full two-hour circuit. We took the 6:30 p.m. cruise to catch the sunset and watch the city light up it was truly magnificent. The only downside was that the boat was overcrowded, and there weren’t enough seats for everyone, so you have to be lucky to get a good spot. Still, an unforgettable experience overall!”
Helpful? Yes
“The start was a bit confusing no clear info on where to go or who we were meeting but we eventually found the boat. Once onboard, the views of the Bosphorus were absolutely wonderful. The tour was nicely timed and covered all the key sights we wanted to see. It was a fantastic way to spend the afternoon.”
Helpful? Yes
It is fine for the price, 2 hours boat trip with an explanation of the main places, bit crowded but would recommend it as value for money
Helpful? Yes
“The departure during the day and return at night was a really nice touch it gave us the chance to enjoy both the daylight and the city all lit up. The boat had flexible seating, which made it easy to move around and find the best spots for photos. Definitely a rare and pleasant way to see Istanbul from the water.”
Helpful? Yes
“The cruise was really nice and easy to get to. We picked the 6:30 p.m. sunset slot, which was absolutely the best choice. The only issue was that the guide was about 30 minutes late at the meeting point, even though we were told to arrive 20 minutes early to be on time. There was no communication about the delay, so we were left wondering if we were in the right place. They definitely need to work on that part. Still, once it got going, it was a lovely cruise.
Helpful? Yes
and I found the front of the boat to be a much better spot than the allocated seating area they had set up. One unexpected moment was when Turkish police boarded the boat without warning and randomly asked for passengers’ passports. Not sure if this happens often, but thankfully everything was fine in the end. Overall, a good experience with beautiful views.”
Helpful? Yes
“The price-quality ratio is good. There’s no guide or commentary, so you just cruise through the Bosphorus at sunset and take in the views on your own. For the price, it’s definitely worth it if you’re more about the scenery than explanations.”
Helpful? Yes
“The boat trip was really great, with beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere. However, I was a bit disappointed that it wasn’t as wheelchair-friendly as advertised. The access wasn’t easy for someone in a wheelchair, so that’s something to keep in mind. Still, the experience itself was enjoyable.”
Helpful? Yes
We really enjoyed the trip on a calm, sunny day with perfect 23-degree weather. I strongly recommend this cruise to tourists it offers fantastic views and a unique perspective of Istanbul from the water. A relaxing and memorable way to see the city.”
Helpful? Yes
“The trip was pleasant overall. It’s a bit of a shame that when the boat gets full, not everyone can sit outside to enjoy the fresh air. Also, the commentary was hard to hear from the back. But it’s still a nice and enjoyable boat tour with great views.”
Helpful? Yes
“Overall, a good experience. The boat was quite busy, so I’d recommend sitting on the left side for the best views of the Blue Mosque and other landmarks. Still, a lovely way to see Istanbul from the water.”
Helpful? Yes
“Great experience overall! It was a really good way to take in the vastness of Istanbul. The agency provided good service, and the price was fair. The boat was comfortable with plenty of facilities, including a bar service, which made the cruise even more enjoyable
Helpful? Yes
“Safe and interesting tour with great views. It was delayed by over 30 minutes, which was a bit frustrating, but the cruise itself was worth the wait.”
Helpful? Yes
“A nice boat trip with lovely views of the city. Relaxing and well-paced. Would recommend for a calm way to see Istanbul from the water.”
Helpful? Yes
“Great trip overall! The audio guide was a bit tricky it only started when the ship got close to each point, and for about 6 out of 24 stops, we weren’t close enough to trigger it. Unfortunately, there was no manual playback option. On the bright side, someone was walking around selling food and drinks the whole time, which was a nice touch.”
Helpful? Yes
“The staff at the port were amazing very friendly and helpful. The only downside was the app for the audio tour, which was buggy and a bit annoying to use. Still, the overall experience was enjoyable.”
Helpful? Yes
If you’re thinking of buying tickets, it’s definitely cheaper to buy them at the venue rather than online. Good value either way, but I saved a bit by purchasing in person.
Helpful? Yes
The excursion was good overall with beautiful views, but I found the seats to be quite uncomfortable. Still, the experience was worth it for the scenery.”
Helpful? Yes
“The boat had lots of shaded spots outside, which made it easy to enjoy the views comfortably. It didn’t leave right on time, which was a bit of a downside, but the tour itself was very pleasant especially the last part near sunset. A lovely way to end the day.”
Helpful? Yes
“Great service overall. The agent was easy to find on the spot, and everything was well organized from there. Smooth experience.”
Helpful? Yes
When we arrived it was very busy but we were very lucky to get assistance from a very helpful young man. He helped us and we white on board quickly. The tour was very good and the tour guide was excellent and extremely helpful
Helpful? Yes
The cruise actually left quite a bit later than the scheduled time, so just be prepared to wait a little. That said, the value matches the price of the excursion. It was a calm and enjoyable ride once it got going.”
Helpful? Yes
The experience was very pleasant and relaxing. The only downside was the lack of an Italian audio guide, which would’ve made it easier for some people to follow along. Still, the views alone made it worthwhile.”
Helpful? Yes
“A good sailing trip where you get to see most of the key sights from the water. I didn’t use the audio guide, so I can’t comment on that. The pier was easy to find using Google Maps, and everything went smoothly.”
Helpful? Yes
Great views of the city from the water. Just keep in mind that the departure can be significantly delayed. Once it starts, though, it’s definitely worth it.”
Helpful? Yes
“This is a plan really worth doing at the end of the day. Watching the sunset from the boat was the highlight such a peaceful and beautiful way to see Istanbul.”
Helpful? Yes
“Nice tour we saw a lot along the Bosphorus. It’s definitely something you shouldn’t miss when visiting Istanbul. A great way to take in the city’s beauty from the water.”
Helpful? Yes
“Definitely worth the money for the views and experience. However, I wasn’t able to get the audio guide to work, and there was no one explaining the sites during the cruise. Still, a peaceful and scenic way to explore the Bosphorus.
Helpful? Yes
Nothing particularly special, but nothing bad either. It was a calm, easy activity and a nice way to spend some time on the water. If you're in the area, you can definitely do it.”
Helpful? Yes
“The fast lane worked perfectly, and booking was smooth and easy. The tour itself was nice and enjoyable. Thanks for a great experience!”
Helpful? Yes
“The fast lane worked perfectly, and booking was smooth and easy. The tour itself was nice and enjoyable. Thanks for a great experience!”
Helpful? Yes
“The person at the ticket counter was a bit hard to find at first I had to search around and eventually spotted them a little ways off because they were wearing a tour name tag. So, the meeting point could definitely be clearer. The boat’s PA system wasn’t very clear either, but since we’d already visited most of the monuments, we didn’t really miss the commentary. Overall, it was a nice and relaxing trip.”
Helpful? Yes
“Overall, the Bosphorus tour met our expectations and the views were beautiful. The only downside was a nearly 30-minute delay at departure with no explanation, which was a bit frustrating. Still, once we set off, it was a lovely and relaxing experience.”
Helpful? Yes
“Overall, the Bosphorus tour met our expectations with beautiful views. There was a delay of almost 30 minutes at departure, and while it was a bit frustrating, the guide was very understanding and kept everyone informed, which helped a lot. Once underway, the experience was really relaxing and enjoyable.”
Helpful? Yes
“The cruise was very inexpensive, so I kept that in mind while reviewing. It was good value for money overall. The recorded audio guide on the boat wasn’t great and had very little narration compared to what a live guide might offer. The trip lasted about 1 hour 45 minutes, which felt just right.”
Helpful? Yes
“I didn’t receive the audio guide, but the tour was still nice because you get to see all the most important monuments along the Bosphorus. A simple and pleasant way to explore the city from the water.”
Helpful? Yes
“The explanation was hard to hear since the speaker was placed near the bar. If you were farther away, it was almost impossible to catch what was being said. Still, the views made the trip worthwhile.”
Helpful? Yes
“The explanation was hard to hear since the speaker was placed near the bar. If you were farther away, it was almost impossible to catch what was being said. Still, the views made the trip worthwhile.”
Helpful? Yes
“I booked the cruise expecting explanations in French, but there were none throughout the tour. It was disappointing since I was really looking forward to the commentary in my language. Still, the sights were stunning and the cruise itself was enjoyable.”
Helpful? Yes
Not a very satisfactory activity. The most notable thing: the views of Istanbul from the boat, but I would not go back to this provider. The explanations were offered in several languages (including Spanish) and all the explanations were in Turkish and English. One member of the staff was feeding the seagulls pretending that they were eating from his hand for the amusement of a group of Italian tourists, who were quite noisy and annoying, blocking the view of those of us next to them. It was very cold on deck and inside, the volume of the music was very annoying and could hardly be seen due to the dirt on the windows. So I advise trying another provider because the cruise itself is worth it but with better quality.
Helpful? Yes
The views from the boat were simply amazing. Seeing Istanbul from the water gave us a whole new perspective of the city. A relaxing and beautiful experience I’d definitely recommend.”
Helpful? Yes
“There was no real audio guide, just a multilingual recording that was nearly impossible to hear. We met near Topkapi Palace but then had to literally run after the guide to catch the boarding point. The organization was quite poor, unfortunately. Despite that, the boat ride itself offered some nice views.”
Helpful? Yes
“Finding the guide was tricky since no one was directing us at the meeting point. Also, you need their app working to get a paper ticket, which could mean roaming charges something that wasn’t clear beforehand. We had to rush to catch the boat, and if it’s overbooked, you just wait for the next one. Seating is first come, first served, and they charge extra if you want to sit at the front for better views. The constant sales pitches from a persistent photographer and juice sellers made it hard to relax. Lastly, if you have any mobility issues, getting on the boat might be difficult. Despite these things, the boat ride gave great views of Istanbul.”
Helpful? Yes
The guide didn’t speak Spanish, which was disappointing since I was expecting a Spanish commentary. Still, the boat ride itself was enjoyable and the views were great.”
Helpful? Yes
The meeting point was quite far from the boat, which made things a bit inconvenient. Also, the cruise didn’t actually go on the Golden Horn as advertised it stopped at the Galata Bridge and then returned to the Bosphorus. Still, the views on the Bosphorus were beautiful, and the overall trip was pleasant.”
Helpful? Yes
“The presentation had very little content, and the sound quality was poor, which made it hard to follow the commentary. Still, the views from the boat were enjoyable.”
Helpful? Yes
I really liked the trip, and the guide was friendly, though they didn’t speak Italian as promised. The reservation included an Italian audio guide, but I didn’t receive it. Luckily, the English and Spanish guides helped me understand most of the commentary. Overall, a nice experience despite that.”
Helpful? Yes
“The explanation in Spanish only came at the very end of the tour, which was a bit disappointing. It would’ve been better to have it throughout. Still, the views were great and the boat ride enjoyable.”
Helpful? Yes
“The tour was good overall, but there was no audio guide in Spanish only a loudspeaker guide in English and Russian, I think. Also, drinks and snacks on board were nearly three times the usual price, which was a bit disappointing. Still, the views and experience were worth it.”
Helpful? Yes
“The cruise itself was nice, but it’s really important to sit on the ‘right’ side to get the best views. They advertised an Italian audio guide, but apart from 2-3 explanations, most commentary was in Spanish. It was understandable, but not what we expected and made it harder to follow. Honestly, they should remove Italian as an option until it’s fully available.”
Helpful? Yes
“We missed having a real guide on the boat there were only announcements over the speakers for a few spots. Honestly, this kind of non-guided tour you could easily book directly in Eminönü. Still, the boat ride gave great views of Istanbul.”
Helpful? Yes
“The boat was overcrowded and definitely not punctual. The guide never spoke in the language we booked, as all groups were put together on one boat with insufficient seating for everyone. Despite these issues, the views were still worth seeing
Helpful? Yes
“The captain was the best part of the trip really friendly and welcoming. It made the cruise feel more personal. The ride itself was smooth and enjoyable.”
Helpful? Yes
The boat has limited visibility if you’re not outside, and the seats weren’t very comfortable. If it rains, seeing anything from inside becomes quite difficult. Still, the cruise gives you a nice overview of the Bosphorus and the main landmarks, so it's worth doing in good weather.”
Helpful? Yes
“I went during the day and it’s a decent tour for the price. The recorded audio guide was hard to understand, and the two people offering photo ‘services’ felt a bit out of place not really necessary. Also, bring your own snacks because the onboard prices are really high. That said, we did get to see quite a few of the main sights, and for the cost, it was definitely worth it.”
Helpful? Yes
“The cruise was okay and we saw some interesting monuments. However, there was no real guide just a lady who showed us where the boat was and then disappeared. It was advertised as having explanations in multiple languages, but there was only an audio guide in English and Russian. Still, it was a nice way to see the city from the water.”
Helpful? Yes
“I didn’t expect much considering the low price, and overall it was good. Too bad the weather wasn’t great very windy and cold but that’s just luck. Still a nice way to see the city from the water.”
Helpful? Yes
“The trip started about 30 minutes late because the boat hadn’t arrived at the pier yet. The organization felt a bit chaotic, and we were surrounded by vendors trying to sell water and sunglasses while waiting. Eventually the boat came, and the ride itself was beautiful and interesting. Drinks and fruit were available on board but the prices were extremely high. Loud music played at times, and there were little girls performing dances, which didn’t quite match the setting of a boat tour. A pushy photographer tried to sell overpriced pictures on the way back. Another surprise: the tour didn’t end where it started. We were dropped near the Misir Çarşısı (Spice Bazaar), which worked out fine for us but isn’t what the booking said should really update that. The boat itself was a bit average, but it felt safe. All in all, it’s one of those classic tourist trap experiences—yet somehow, still enjoyable.”
Helpful? Yes
“It was really good value for money, but it was a shame we had to stand for the first hour because the boat was so busy there were definitely more people than seats. Half the passengers were already on board finishing their tour, so we had to wait until they got off mid-way to find a seat. Unfortunately, no one managed the crowd or acknowledged that 20–30 people were left standing. Despite that, the views were great and the cruise itself was enjoyable once we could sit down.”
Helpful? Yes
“Overall, the activity was decent. The trip lasted about two hours, but it didn’t really go through the Golden Horn just a quick pass so it’s mostly focused on the Bosphorus. Also, the audio guide wasn’t included in the price as advertised. You had to download it separately for an extra €6.99, which should have been mentioned more clearly. Still, the views were great and the boat ride itself was enjoyable.”
Helpful? Yes
The sunset view from the boat was absolutely beautiful, and seeing Istanbul lit up afterward was even more magical. It’s a relaxing way to take in the city from a different perspective. Definitely recommend going at sunset!
Helpful? Yes
“It was a good experience overall, but I did feel a bit ripped off. Some extras on board were overpriced, and the organization could be better. Still, the views made it worthwhile.”
Helpful? Yes
The tour gave very brief information about the sights, but the boat ride itself was enjoyable. It’s a nice way to see Istanbul from the water if you’re just looking for a relaxed trip
Helpful? Yes
It was okay didn’t get much info during the trip, but it wasn’t too expensive either. A nice, budget-friendly way to see the Bosphorus from the water.
Helpful? Yes
“Two hours felt pretty long, especially with the automatic audio guide only working in random languages. French was available only occasionally, so it was a bit hit-or-miss. Still, it was nice to see the city from the water.”
Helpful? Yes
“We waited 45 minutes before someone finally picked us up, and the trip started about 20 minutes late. The cruise itself was interesting and the crew friendly, but the guide didn’t take us back to the meeting point as expected. Overall, the organization could definitely improve, but the views made it worth it.”
Helpful? Yes
The boat tour itself was pleasant and offered beautiful views of Istanbul from the water. However, I have to point out a serious issue: the meeting point is at the top of a very steep hill, and the guide walks everyone down to the pier. There were wheelchair users and families with strollers on our tour, and the guide showed no concern or support for them. My friend and I spent a lot of time helping two young women with a wheelchair. When I suggested to the guide that wheelchair users should be told to meet directly at the pier, the response was, ‘It’s not my problem.’ This was really shocking and disappointing. There’s nothing in the booking that warns about accessibility challenges. Because of this, I cannot recommend the tour for disabled travelers, which is a shame because the boat ride itself is lovely.”
Helpful? Yes
“The activity was interesting at the start but felt a bit too long overall. I think doing it during the day might make it more engaging. Still, a nice way to see Istanbul from the water.”
Helpful? Yes
“There were more people than seats, so we had to stand the entire trip, which wasn’t the best after a long day of exploring. Also, the guide was hard to hear from some parts of the boat. Still, the views made it worth doing.”
Helpful? Yes
“The boat tour itself was very nice and actually a bit longer than expected, which I appreciated. However, I was uncomfortable when staff suddenly brought out a parrot to show off during the trip. I didn’t feel right supporting that. Aside from that, the views and the overall experience were enjoyable.”
Helpful? Yes
Our tour started about 20 minutes late. We were told the guide would give us a code onboard to use a mobile app for explanations in German, which we had to download beforehand. Unfortunately, the guide never showed up, so we had to rely on the taped explanations in Russian and English and the sound quality was pretty poor. Still, the views were nice and the boat comfortable.”
Helpful? Yes
For the price, it’s quite good. But if you’re hoping to learn a lot about the sights during the tour, I wouldn’t recommend it the explanations are really brief. Still, a nice way to enjoy the views and relax on the water.
Helpful? Yes
The cruise itself was nice, but we barely caught the sunset. I think 1 to 1.5 hours would’ve been enough since the trip feels a bit repetitive towards the end. For the price, it’s okay, but there’s another option on this app for around includes dinner and shows which I’d recommend more if you want something special.”
Helpful? Yes
“The cruise itself was nice and the views were great. However, despite being advertised as wheelchair accessible, the journey to the boat was tough and not adapted at all. The guide didn’t check if I was keeping up, and my two sons had to help me through difficult terrain. The worst part was a flight of concrete steps down to the boat, where staff lifted me and my wheelchair which felt unsafe and stressful. This definitely isn’t truly wheelchair accessible as advertised, so that needs urgent improvement.”
Helpful? Yes
We loved this boat trip! The kids were fascinated by the views, and it was an easy way to see the city from the water. The guide was friendly, and the whole thing felt very well organized. Would definitely do it again!”
Helpful? Yes
The boat route was beautiful and offered great views of Istanbul. However, the guide was disappointing it was just a low-volume recorded voice in English and maybe Russian, which was hard to hear and didn’t sync well with the sights. Despite that, the trip was relaxing and enjoyable overall, especially considering the affordable price.
Helpful? Yes
I enjoyed the cruise the views of Istanbul from the water were really interesting and unique. That said, the boat was very full and definitely felt quite touristy. If you’re looking for a chill, less crowded experience, this might not be it. But for a first-time visitor wanting to see the sights from the Bosphorus, it’s a solid choice.
Helpful? Yes
Everything was great the views, the pace, and the overall experience. Just a heads-up: they don’t accept card payments on board for drinks or snacks, which was a bit inconvenient. It would be helpful if they mentioned that in advance. Other than that, really enjoyable!”
Helpful? Yes
“It’s a pretty standard, common tour nothing unique or super special. But for the price, it’s not bad at all if you just want to enjoy some sightseeing and views of Istanbul from the water. Good for a relaxed afternoon.”
Helpful? Yes
“It’s definitely an experience to do if you’re visiting Istanbul seeing the city from the water is beautiful. The only downside was the long walk through the busy streets to reach the boat, and of course, dealing with the chaotic Turkish taxi drivers! But once on board, it was a relaxing and scenic ride.”
Helpful? Yes
“Everything went well and the cruise was enjoyable. The only issue was that the audio didn’t work, so I missed out on the explanations. Still, a nice way to see the city from the water.
Helpful? Yes
It was a pleasant experience that gave us a different and beautiful perspective of Istanbul from the water. The only downside was the audio guide it was hard to understand because of background noise and general disturbances. Still, it’s worth doing for the views alone.”
Helpful? Yes
I had requested a guide in French when booking, but unfortunately the tour only offered English and Turkish. That was a bit disappointing. Still, the cruise itself was very pleasant and the views of Istanbul from the Bosphorus made it a memorable outing.
Helpful? Yes
“Overall, the experience was good. The organization, the ferry, and the route were all well managed. The only downside was that we never received the code for the audio guide in Italian, even though it was included in the price and we had followed the download instructions. So we missed all the explanations during the tour. Still, it was a pleasant ride and a nice way to see the city.”
Helpful? Yes
“The cruise offered some great views, but the boat was definitely overcrowded. There weren’t enough seats outside for everyone, and inside the engine noise made the audio guide hard to understand. The guide was also out of sync in English, we were hearing about landmarks before we actually reached them. Still, for the price, it was a decent way to see Istanbul from the water.”
Helpful? Yes
“The activity itself is really good and the views are stunning Istanbul is such a beautiful city. Just a heads-up for French speakers: the audio guide is only in English and Spanish. If you're not bilingual, it can be a bit frustrating. But overall, it’s still worth doing for the scenery alone.
Helpful? Yes
The boat left about 30 minutes late and there was no information given while we waited, which was a bit annoying. But once the tour started, it was a really beautiful trip with great views. Worth it overall.”
Helpful? Yes
“I’m not sure what guide people were expecting because there wasn’t one on board. Just an audio recording, which wasn’t perfect but the views made up for it. A nice, relaxing cruise overall.”
Helpful? Yes
“Our trip started about an hour late, which was a bit frustrating since we were hoping to catch the sunset views. Instead, most of the sights were at night, which was still beautiful but different from what we planned. We also arrived back on time, so we didn’t get that lost hour back. Overall, still a nice cruise with great views
Helpful? Yes
“Booked online, but noticed the price was way higher than buying directly at the dock almost double! If you’re on a budget, definitely better to buy tickets in person. Still, the cruise itself was lovely and the views were worth it.
Helpful? Yes
“The boat was a bit crowded and there was a strong gasoline smell onboard, which wasn’t ideal. I missed the chance to get the audio guide early, but the views made up for it. Overall, still a decent trip for the price.”
Helpful? Yes
The audio guide was only available through my phone, which wasn’t perfect, but the overall experience was still good. For what I paid, the value was definitely fair. A solid way to see Istanbul from the water.”
Helpful? Yes
“The organization and comfort on board were really excellent. The only downside was that it was pretty lively the whole time lots of kids and people chatting loudly, so there wasn’t a single quiet moment. But honestly, it added to the atmosphere, and we still really enjoyed the trip!”
Helpful? Yes
We installed the app on our phones before the tour, but unfortunately the Wi-Fi on the boat didn’t work, so we had to read about the sights later at the hotel. Still, the views were stunning and the trip itself was really enjoyable!”
Helpful? Yes
I booked the tour online but realized it was way cheaper to buy the ticket directly at the ferry . The boat trip itself was lovely and gave me great views of Istanbul. If you want to save some money, definitely buy your ticket on site!”
Helpful? Yes
The cruise was really pleasant and the views were beautiful. The only hiccup was a 2-hour delay because of weather, which was a bit frustrating. It would have been great to get a heads-up by text or alert so we could have planned better. Still, the trip itself was worth the wait and very enjoyable!
Helpful? Yes
A straightforward boat ride on the Bosphorus that lets you see Istanbul from a different angle. For the price, it’s pretty good.
Helpful? Yes
The boat ended up leaving about an hour late, which was a bit frustrating. Plus, the deck was cordoned off, so there wasn’t much space to move around or enjoy the views freely. Still, the scenery was nice once we got going.
Helpful? Yes
The audio guide couldn’t be downloaded, so we missed out on the explanations during the trip.
Helpful? Yes
The boat has an upper deck, but it was blocked off, which was very disappointing. Being limited to the lower two levels restricted the view, and there was only a small standing area by the rails. The departure was also quite late although boarding started at 5:15 for a 5:30 scheduled departure, the boat didn’t actually leave until well after 6:15. Despite this, the views were good, especially considering the price.
Helpful? Yes
The price was twice as high as buying directly at the counter.”
Helpful? Yes
“The walk was nice, but it’s a shame the app isn’t accessible offline. I ended up spending €45 in data charges and still couldn’t download the entire content. It’s way too expensive for what it is!
Helpful? Yes
First of all, I really enjoyed the tour. It was wonderful to see Istanbul from the water and experience both the European and Asian sides in one trip. The views of the beautiful buildings along the Bosphorus were definitely a highlight. However, I booked the 12:30 pm tour and was told to arrive 20 minutes early, but the boat didn’t actually leave until 1:30 pm, which was quite a delay. Also, the audio guide is provided through an app, which is convenient, but it doesn’t cover the entire tour. The commentary plays continuously, even when you’re not near the landmarks being described, so you have to guess when to listen or pause. I found myself switching between the audio guide and Google Maps trying to figure out where I was, which made it a bit less relaxing than I’d hoped. Overall, a lovely experience, but the timing and audio guide could definitely be improved.
Helpful? Yes
“The boat left a full hour and a half later than the agreed time, which was quite frustrating
Helpful? Yes
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