Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Turkish Night Show

History

The Bosphorus Strait, a vital waterway connecting the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara, has been a cornerstone of Istanbul’s history for centuries, shaping its identity as a bridge between Europe and Asia. Lined with iconic landmarks like Dolmabahce Palace and Rumeli Fortress, the strait has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, from the Byzantines to the Ottomans.

These landmarks, built between the 15th and 19th centuries, reflect Istanbul’s rich cultural tapestry, blending Ottoman opulence with strategic military architecture. The Bosphorus remains a living testament to the city’s role as a global crossroads, where history and modernity converge.

Highlights

• Enjoy a 3-hour cruise along the Bosphorus, straddling Europe and Asia.
• Savor a variety of authentic Turkish cuisine with multiple dining options.
• Admire panoramic views of Dolmabahce Palace and Ortakoy Mosque.
• Marvel at the timeless architecture of Bosphorus and Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridges.
• Experience vibrant folk and belly dance performances, plus a lively DJ show.

Full Description

Embark on a 3-hour Bosphorus dinner cruise, where you’ll glide along the iconic strait that divides Europe and Asia, soaking in Istanbul’s stunning coastal views. Your evening begins with a rich selection of Turkish cuisine, including traditional appetizers, a fresh seasonal salad, and a choice of main courses like grilled fish, chicken, meatballs, or vegetarian pasta, followed by dessert and fruit.

As you cruise, take in the grandeur of landmarks like Dolmabahce Palace, Ciragan Palace, Rumeli Fortress, Beylerbeyi Palace, and the Maiden’s Tower, each steeped in centuries of history. The Bosphorus and Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridges add a modern contrast, showcasing Istanbul’s blend of old and new.

After dinner, be captivated by a vibrant Turkish night show featuring folk and belly dancing, complemented by a whirling dervish performance and international music from a DJ. With unlimited soft drinks, Turkish coffee, tea, and optional alcoholic drinks, this cruise offers a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and entertainment.

Why Choose This Experience?

This Bosphorus dinner cruise combines breathtaking views, authentic Turkish cuisine, and lively entertainment, creating an unforgettable evening in Istanbul. With hotel pickup and drop-off (if selected), an air-conditioned boat, and a multilingual host, the experience is designed for comfort and immersion in the city’s cultural heritage.

Whether you’re a food lover, history enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique night out, this cruise caters to all. The blend of iconic landmarks, delicious food, and traditional performances makes it a must-do for visitors wanting to experience Istanbul’s magic from the water.

What’s Included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)
• 3-hour Bosphorus cruise
• Dinner (Turkish appetizers, hot starter, seasonal salad, choice of 4 main courses including vegetarian, dessert, and fruit)
• 2 glasses of alcoholic drinks (if option selected)
• Unlimited soft drinks
• Turkish coffee and tea
• Dance shows (belly dancing, whirling dervish, and more)
• Rhythm show
• DJ performance
• Air-conditioned boat

Itinerary

• Dolmabahce Palace: Scenic view from the water.
• Ciragan Palace: Pass by this historic Ottoman palace.
• Ortakoy: View the iconic mosque and vibrant waterfront.
• Rumeli Hisari: Admire the 15th-century fortress.
• Bosphorus Bridge: Cruise beneath this iconic structure.
• Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge: Pass under this modern marvel.
• Beylerbeyi Palace: See this elegant Ottoman residence.
• Maiden’s Tower: Marvel at this historic island tower.
• Kabataş Ferry Terminal: Main boarding and disembarking point.

Pricing

From $31 per person

Meeting Point

Arrive at Kabataş Port (near Dolmabahce Palace), where a representative will welcome you aboard the boat named “Pereme.” The port is a 5-minute walk from Dolmabahce Palace and accessible via the T1 tram line from Beyazıt-Grand Bazaar, Sultanahmet, Karaköy, or Eminönü, or the F1 funicular from Taksim. Optional hotel pickup is available from Zeytinburnu, Sirkeci, Taksim, Kabataş, Eminönü, Şişli, Aksaray, Beyoğlu, Karaköy, Sultanahmet, or Topkapı.

How to Get There

• Arrive at Kabataş Port, a 5-minute walk from Dolmabahce Palace, for boarding.
• Use the T1 tram line from Beyazıt-Grand Bazaar, Sultanahmet, Karaköy, or Eminönü.
• Take the F1 funicular from Taksim for easy access to Kabataş Port.
• If selecting hotel pickup, wait in your hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled time.
• Confirm pickup details with the tour operator if staying in Zeytinburnu, Sirkeci, Taksim, Kabataş, Eminönü, Şişli, Aksaray, Beyoğlu, Karaköy, Sultanahmet, or Topkapı.

Good to Know

What to Bring

• Comfortable clothing suitable for an evening cruise.
• A light jacket for cooler moments on the water.

Know Before You Go

• Pets are not allowed on the cruise.
• Smoking is prohibited indoors and in the vehicle.
• The cruise is wheelchair accessible; inform the operator in advance for arrangements.
• Arrive at Kabataş Port or your hotel pickup point on time to avoid delays.
• Check availability for starting times when booking, as schedules may vary.

Reviews

• The guide was exceptional, offering warm hospitality and seamless service. The boat was comfortable, the food delicious, and the dance performances were a highlight. Highly recommend this cruise for a memorable evening in Istanbul.
• An incredible experience with stunning views of the Bosphorus landmarks. The food was authentic and flavorful, and the entertainment, especially the belly dancing, was fantastic. This is a must-do for anyone visiting Istanbul.
• The cruise was beautifully organized, with a great mix of sights, food, and performances. The guide’s friendliness and the boat’s ambiance made it a perfect night. The whirling dervish show was particularly captivating.