Exploring Istanbul’s stunning waterways is a must-do experience for any traveler. The Bosphorus Strait and Black Sea Lunch Cruise provides an unforgettable opportunity to witness the city’s iconic landmarks from the comfort of a relaxing boat ride. Guests can savor a delightful two-course meal while taking in the enchanting backdrop of the strait, making this cruise a perfect blend of sightseeing and culinary delight. But what makes this journey truly remarkable is the chance to glimpse the hidden gems that lie beyond the city’s bustling streets.

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Key Points

This 5-hour cruise along the Bosphorus Strait offers scenic views of landmarks like Dolmabahce Mosque and Ciragan Palace, as well as a stop at the Anatolian Fortress.
The cruise includes a two-course lunch with seasonal dishes and fresh fruits, along with live English commentary from an experienced tour guide.
Passengers can enjoy the open-air observation deck for photo opportunities and appreciate the comfort of the spacious ship.
The cruise departs from the Kabataş pier, and passengers must arrive 20 minutes before departure, adhering to the dress code and other restrictions.
With an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 17 reviews, the cruise provides a valuable experience and is noted for its excellent tour guide and fantastic lunch.

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Cruise Overview and Pricing

The Bosphorus Strait Lunch Cruise is a popular 5-hour activity in Istanbul, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the city’s iconic waterway.

Priced from €150.00 per person, the cruise includes a two-course lunch with seasonal dishes and fresh fruits. Guests can enjoy the comfortable ship, open-air observation deck, and live English commentary from a knowledgeable guide.

The cruise’s availability and cancellation policy provide flexibility, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Plus, a reserve now and pay later option is available, making it a convenient choice for travelers.

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Itinerary and Highlights

Starting from the Kabataş (Ş.Hatları) pier, the Bosphorus Strait and Black Sea Lunch Cruise takes guests on a 5-hour journey to explore the main sites along this iconic waterway.

The cruise passes by stunning landmarks, including the Dolmabahce Mosque, Ciragan Palace, and Ortaköy. Guests will witness the Bosphorus Bridge, Rumeli Hisari, and the Fatih Sultan Mehmet and Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridges.

Guests will witness stunning landmarks along the Bosphorus Strait, including Dolmabahce Mosque, Ciragan Palace, Ortaköy, and the iconic Bosphorus Bridge.

The cruise stops in the fishing village of Anadolu Kavagi, allowing visitors to explore the remnants of the Anatolian Fortress.

Throughout the journey, guests enjoy scenic views of castles, palaces, and mansions lining the Bosphorus Strait.

Onboard Experience

Guests aboard the Bosphorus Strait and Black Sea Lunch Cruise enjoy a comfortable ship with ample space and an open-air observation deck, providing perfect opportunities for photo-taking.

The cruise offers a delightful two-course lunch featuring a variety of dishes and fresh seasonal fruits. An experienced live tour guide provides insightful commentary in English, enriching the overall experience.

Comfortable ship with plenty of space
Open-air observation deck for scenic views
Two-course lunch with diverse dishes
Fresh seasonal fruits
Live tour guide with English commentary

Customer Feedback and Reviews

Customers who’ve experienced the Bosphorus Strait and Black Sea Lunch Cruise have consistently provided positive feedback, with an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 17 reviews.

One reviewer from Sweden, Kristina, praised the excellent tour guide, fantastic lunch, and comfortable ship, even suggesting a swim opportunity in the Black Sea.

Another reviewer from the Czech Republic, Daniel, noted the great value, pleasant experience despite rainy weather, and abundant food.

Tanya from South Africa enjoyed the smaller group dynamics, historical insights, and swimming in the Black Sea.

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Meeting Point and Logistics

Passengers meet at the entrance of Kabataş İskelesi, 20 minutes before the cruise’s scheduled departure time, where they’ll find the "Velena Travel" sign. The meeting point is conveniently located and easy to find.

A few important logistical details to keep in mind:

No pets, alcohol, drugs, or electric wheelchairs are allowed on the cruise.
The itinerary is subject to change, as this is a long circle Bosphorus cruise to Anadolu Kavagi.
Passengers should arrive on time, as the cruise will depart as scheduled.
Restrooms and refreshments are available on the comfortable cruise ship.
Guests are advised to dress appropriately for the weather and bring any necessary personal items.

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Dress Code and Restrictions

Besides the logistical details, there are a few important dress code and restriction guidelines to keep in mind for the Bosphorus Strait lunch cruise.

Casual, comfortable attire is recommended, as the cruise involves both indoor and outdoor areas. Swimsuits are allowed, but swimwear should be covered up when not actively swimming.

Casual, comfortable attire is recommended for the Bosphorus Strait lunch cruise, as the trip incorporates both indoor and outdoor areas. Swimwear must be covered when not swimming.

No pets, alcohol, drugs, or electric wheelchairs are permitted on board. These restrictions aim to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all passengers.

Plus, the itinerary is subject to change based on weather and other factors. Passengers should arrive at the meeting point 20 minutes before departure.

Accessibility and Special Needs

While the Bosphorus Strait lunch cruise generally caters to a wide range of passengers, the operator aims to accommodate guests with special needs whenever possible.

Some key accessibility considerations include:

Wheelchair-friendly access and seating on the ship
Assistance available for boarding and disembarking
Designated areas for guests with limited mobility
Dietary accommodations for guests with food allergies or restrictions
Multilingual staff to provide support and information as needed

However, it’s important to note that certain areas along the Bosphorus Strait may have limited accessibility due to the historical nature of the sites.

Guests with special needs are encouraged to inquire about specific requirements prior to booking.

Schedule and Availability

The Bosphorus Strait lunch cruise operates on a daily basis, with multiple departure times available to accommodate visitors. The cruise departs from the Kabataş İskelesi pier, with guests advised to arrive 20 minutes before the scheduled start time.

| Departure Time | Duration | Price (per person) |

|—————-|———-|——————-|

| 11:00 AM | 5 hours | €150.00 |

| 12:00 PM | 5 hours | €150.00 |

| 1:00 PM | 5 hours | €150.00 |

| 2:00 PM | 5 hours | €150.00 |

| 3:00 PM | 5 hours | €150.00 |

Guests can reserve their spot and pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

According to the information provided, passengers are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. The cruise includes a two-course lunch with seasonal dishes and beverages are available onboard.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Children?

The cruise doesn’t have a minimum age requirement for children. Families with kids of all ages are welcome to join the tour. However, the cruise operator recommends that children be able to sit quietly during the 5-hour journey.

Is It Possible to Book a Private or Customized Cruise?

The cruise offers a standard group itinerary, but it’s possible to book a private or customized cruise for special occasions or larger groups. Customers can inquire about these options directly with the tour operator.

What Are the COVID-19 Safety Protocols on the Cruise?

The cruise operator follows strict COVID-19 safety protocols. This includes mandatory masks, social distancing, sanitizing high-touch areas, and limited capacity to ensure passenger safety. Guests must complete a health declaration form prior to boarding.

Can I Store My Luggage Somewhere During the Tour?

Yes, the cruise operator provides a luggage storage service. Passengers can leave their belongings in a secure area before the tour and collect them afterwards. This allows them to enjoy the cruise hands-free.

The Sum Up

The Istanbul Bosphorus Strait and Black Sea Lunch Cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the captivating beauty of Istanbul. Guests can relish a delightful two-course meal while exploring iconic landmarks and enjoying live commentary. With an open-air observation deck and comfortable amenities, this cruise provides a memorable and scenic way to take in the city’s rich history and stunning natural surroundings.