Private Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise

Experience a delightful and relaxing way to see the full depth of Istanbul on a private Bosphorus cruise. Your private licensed guide and driver will meet you at the pier in Istanbul. You'll drive through the commercial area of Istanbul passing Ottoman monuments on your way to the famous Egyptian Spice Bazaar (closed on Sunday). You'll enjoy a short visit amid the scents of saffron and vanilla before walking to your nearby vessel.

Board your private chartered ship and start an unforgettable excursion on the fabled waterway between two continents, Europe & Asia. Drink in the views of Istanbul's historic Ottoman palaces, wooden 19th century waterfront mansions, modern day pleasure palaces and ancient fortresses. You''l enjoy the spectacular scenery and have the perfect opportunity for taking photographs along both shores of this ancient waterway where East meets West.

Your private cruise ends in Sariyer, a charming fishing village located on the Bosphorus near the mouth of the Black Sea approximately 2 hours after you started. There you will rejoin your driver for the return trip to your pier in Istanbul.

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Tour Breakdown:
1- Depart pier for Spice Market - 30 Minutes
2- Visit Spice Market- 45 Minutes
3- Walk to and board private boat- 15 Minutes
4- Private Bosphorus cruise- 2 Hours
5- Drive to back to pier- 30 -45 Minutes

Note- If additional time is available during your tour, many guides will ask if you are interested in seeing how Turkish carpets are made. These free demonstrations are very interesting and quite informative, but they are also a selling opportunity.  Decide on your interest and tell your tour guide clearly whether it interests you or not.  You should never feel obligated to make a purchase on any tour.

Turkish VISA note: The Turkish government requires overnight visitors to obtain an entry VISA.  However visitors who are visiting the country by cruise ship are exempt from this entry requirement.  No entry Visa is required for a shore excursion however an entry Visa is required if your cruise starts in Istanbul.  Entry Visas for Americans can be obtained at the airport in Istanbul upon your arrival.  The cost is about $25 USD