Bosphorus Cruise

DestinationIstanbul, Turkey

CategoryInternational

Starting fromOn request

CancellationAs per policy

Bosphorus Cruise in Turkey Tours

A Bosphorus Cruise offers a memorable way to experience Istanbul from the water, sailing along the Bosphorus Strait, the natural waterway that separates Europe and Asia. The cruise provides panoramic views of Istanbul’s historic skyline, waterfront palaces, mosques, fortresses and traditional neighbourhoods.

During the journey, visitors can admire landmarks such as Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Rumeli Fortress and the Bosphorus bridges from a unique perspective. The changing scenery along both shores showcases Istanbul’s remarkable combination of European and Asian influences.

A Bosphorus cruise is an excellent way to relax while discovering the city’s waterfront heritage and enjoying views of the Golden Horn, Sea of Marmara and surrounding historic districts.

Terms & conditions

The cruise is valid for the date, time and route stated on the booking.
Passengers should arrive at the designated pier/boarding point before the scheduled departure time.
A valid ticket or booking confirmation may be required for boarding.
Passengers must follow all instructions from the captain, crew and cruise operator.
The cruise route, duration or departure time may be changed because of weather, sea conditions, traffic, technical issues or operational requirements.
The cruise may be delayed, rescheduled or cancelled when weather or sea conditions make sailing unsafe.
Passengers should remain within designated passenger areas and must not enter restricted crew or operational areas.
All applicable maritime and safety regulations must be followed, including emergency instructions.
Children must remain under the supervision of an accompanying adult.
Passengers should exercise caution on wet decks, stairs and near railings.
Smoking may be restricted to designated areas, where available.
Passengers must not bring or use prohibited or dangerous items on board.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted, subject to the operator's rules.
Passengers are responsible for their personal belongings.
Food and beverages may be subject to the specific cruise operator's onboard policy.
Late arrival or missed boarding may result in loss of the cruise without refund, depending on the operator's terms.
Cancellation and refund conditions depend on the specific cruise ticket and booking channel.
If the operator cancels the cruise, refund or rescheduling will be handled according to its applicable booking policy.
If the cruise is included in an Oxford Travels package, the package's cancellation policy may apply in addition to the local cruise operator's terms.
Individual cruises may have different routes, durations, vessel types and inclusions, so the confirmed booking should be treated as the final authority.

Plan your journey

Activity date

Adults

Children

PriceOn request

No payment is taken now - we confirm availability and the price first.

Got questions?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

01Do I need to book a hot air balloon ride in advance for Cappadocia?

Answer. Yes, it is highly recommended to book in advance as balloon rides are very popular and can sell out quickly, especially during peak season.

02Can I use my mobile phone in Turkey?

Answer. Yes, international roaming works, but local SIM cards (Turkcell, Vodafone, Türk Telekom) are affordable and offer good data plans.

03What should I wear in Turkey?

Answer. Turkey is modern and diverse, but modest clothing is recommended when visiting mosques or religious sites. Carry a scarf for women to cover their heads when entering mosques.

04Do I need travel insurance for Turkey?

Answer. Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage.

05What kind of food can I expect in Turkey?

Answer. Turkish cuisine includes kebabs, mezes, baklava, Turkish delight, pide (Turkish pizza), and çay (tea). Vegetarian options are also widely available.

06What is the official language in Turkey?

Answer. The official language is Turkish, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.

07What is the local currency in Turkey?

Answer. The currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but carrying some cash is recommended for small vendors and rural areas.

08How many days are ideal for a Turkey tour?

Answer. A minimum of 7–10 days is recommended to explore Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Pamukkale. For a more relaxed trip including Antalya or Ephesus, plan for 12–14 days.

09What is the best time to visit Turkey?

Answer. The best time to visit Turkey is April to June (spring) and September to November (autumn) when the weather is pleasant and sightseeing is most enjoyable. July and August can be very hot, especially in inland areas.

10Do I need a visa to travel to Turkey?

Answer. Yes, most travelers require a visa or e-Visa to enter Turkey. Some nationalities can get an e-Visa online before arrival, while others may be visa-exempt. Check the official Turkish e-Visa website for details.

Discover the destination

About Turkey

Western Asia

Turkey is a transcontinental country, primarily located in Western Asia (Anatolia) with a smaller portion in Southeastern Europe (Thrace). It's a nation of significant historical and cultural importance, bridging Europe and Asia, and boasts a diverse landscape, from coastal plains to mountainous regions. Turkey is strategically located, controlling key waterways like the Turkish Straits, which link the Black and Aegean Seas.

Key Aspects of Turkey:
Geography: Turkey's geography is diverse, including the Anatolian plateau, coastal plains, and mountainous regions in the east. It's bordered by the Black Sea, Mediterranean Sea, and Aegean Sea.
History: Turkey has a rich history, encompassing the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, and the modern Republic of Turkey, established in 1923.
Culture: Turkey's culture is a blend of influences from its diverse past and its current position as a transcontinental nation.
Economy: Turkey has a large and diverse economy, with strengths in manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism.
Politics: Turkey is a multiparty republic with a strong presidential system.
People: Turkey has a population of over 85 million people, with a majority of Turkish ethnicity and a significant Kurdish minority.

In essence, Turkey is a country of contrasts: it's both ancient and modern, European and Asian, and its strategic location and rich history have shaped its identity and its role in the world.