About this activity
Editor's Note
Let’s be honest for a second: the Bosphorus dinner cruise is the ultimate "love it or hate it" staple of the Istanbul tourism machine. I’ve seen enough of these to know that most operators treat guests like a "lead" to be processed rather than a traveler seeking a moment of magic. However, this specific experience catches my eye because it finally addresses the biggest gripe in the industry—the "cattle-call" seating. By offering private tables and actual VIP upgrades, they're moving away from the crowded, buffet-line chaos that usually kills the vibe. It’s a bit of a provocative move to charge extra for a window seat, sure, but if it means I don’t have to elbow a stranger to see the Maiden’s Tower while I'm trying to enjoy my grilled sea bass, then I’m all for it. If you want the kitschy, high-energy soul of Istanbul without the usual logistical headaches, this is probablly your best bet.
About the Tour
Imagine drifting between two continents while the sun dips below the horizon, lighting up the minarets of the Old City. This isn't just a boat ride; it’s a full-throttle immersion into Turkish hospitality. You’ll board a sleek yacht and set sail across the strait that separates Europe and Asia, passing under the glow of the Bosphorus and Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridges.
As you sail, the skyline provides a masterclass in history. You’ll get front-row views of the Dolmabahçe Palace with its Baroque Revival grandeur, the Beylerbeyi Palace, and the iconic Galata Tower.
Dining & Custom Comfort
Unlike the standard "one size fits all" tours, this cruise lets you tailor the night to your specific tastes. Whether you want to be right in the heart of the action or tucked away with a view, you have options:
- Tailored Seating: Choose a Windowed View Table to keep the Bosphorus at your fingertips, or a Close Stage Table if you’re here for the choreography.
- The VIP Lounge: For those who prefer a more elevated atmosphere, seating on the upper deck (VIP Lounge) offers a bit more exclusivity.
- Menu Options: Choose between a standard meal or the highly recommended VIP Menu, featuring ten types of Turkish appetizers, shrimp stew, and main courses ranging from Veal Entrecote to Seasonal Seafood.
Live Entertainment
The night is fueled by a high-energy stage show that covers the breadth of Mediterranean and Anatolian culture. Expect a vibrant lineup including:
- Traditional Turkish Folk Dancing and Whirling Dervishes.
- The rhythmic flair of Latin Flamenco and Sirtaki.
- A classic Belly Dance performance and a live DJ to close out the night.
Logistics at a Glance
- Transport: Stress-free hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned van, or meet the crew directly at the port.
- Refreshments: Options for unlimited soft drinks or unlimited local alcoholic beverages are available depending on your selection.
- Special Occasions: Celebrating? You can add a Birthday Package that includes a cake and the traditional song to make it official.
Highlights
- Enjoy dinner on a mega yacht on the Bosphorus
- Sail through two continents and see historical sights on Bosphorus
- Watch dancers perform Turkish folk dancing and Latin flamenco
- Snap selfies on a yacht with the Bosphorus and Istanbul in the background
Know before you go
- The activity caters to special dietary requirements, including vegetarian, pescetarian, and halal
- Private tables are not provided for reservations for 1 person. Reservations for one person are collectively seated at the same table
- If you have purchased a ticket with a transfer, please be ready at your hotel at 19:00. Our vehicles will come to pick you up between 19:00 and 20:00. Also, if the vehicle cannot access your location, pickup will take place at a nearby location
- Our tours are provided with the Mega Lüfer-1, Mega Lüfer-2 and Mega Lüfer-3 which are Istanbul's only yachts with Safe Tourism Certification, subject to boat availability. There is no option to choose a specific boat. Rest assured, there is no difference in the shows, meals or quality on board the boats
- The “Skip the Line” is only usable for VIP tickets.
- When purchasing the product, there are additional add-ons related to table and seating options within the selected options. These add-ons must be selected per person.
What to bring
Includes / Excluded
Itinerary
Starting/pickup location
Depends on the selected option
Dolmabahce Palace
Ciragan Palace
Ortakoy
Bosphorus Bridge
Rumeli Hisari
Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge
Anatolian Fortress
Beylerbeyi Palace
Maiden's Tower
25 drop-off locations:
Sultan Ahmet, Beyoğlu, 34445, Kağıthane, Eminönü, Laleli, Sirkeci, Ayvansaray, Gayrettepe, Levent, Taksim Square, Şişli, Aksaray, Fatih, Kabataş, Mega Lüfer Yacht Tour Bosphorus Dinner Cruise İstanbul, Mega Lüfer Yachts | Bosphorus Dinner Cruise İstanbul | Bosphorus Daytime and Sunset Cruise, Sütlüce, Sultanahmet, Zeytinburnu, Beşiktaş, Ortaköy, Topkapı, Karaköy, Beşiktaş See more