If you've never been on a Bosphorus dinner cruise, it's hard to picture what three hours on the water actually look like. Here is the whole evening as our guests experience it, so you know exactly what you're booking.
The evening at a glance
- 19:00–20:15 · Hotel pickup — with the Normal, Gold and VIP packages. The exact time depends on your area; we confirm it once we know your hotel.
- 20:00 · Boarding at Kabataş Pier — a live singer greets guests as they come aboard.
- 20:30 · Departure — the boat sails past Dolmabahçe Palace as dinner service begins.
- 20:45 · Ortaköy Mosque & Bosphorus Bridge — the bridge lit up overhead, the most photographed moment of the night.
- 21:30 · Crossing to the Asian side — the folk dance performance begins.
- 23:30 · Back at Kabataş — farewell photos on deck, then drop-off at your hotel if your package includes transfer.
What's on the table
Dinner is a full Turkish menu, not snacks. It starts with ten varieties of meze and a warm börek, followed by a main course with seasonal salad — you choose salmon, sea bass, chicken skewer or beef skewer — and ends with a special semolina dessert. Soft drinks (water, cola, juice) are unlimited on every package.
All food served on board is halal. Please note there is no separate vegetarian menu.
The Turkish Night show
The show runs throughout the sailing: a whirling dervish performance, five folk dances, belly dance, live music and a DJ to close the night — many guests end up dancing. Tables are in the dining hall, and there's an open-air deck and a panoramic viewing terrace for photos of the bridges and palaces along the shore.
What to wear and bring
Smart casual is the norm. There's no strict dress code, but most guests dress up a little for dinner and a show. Bring a light jacket even in summer — it gets breezy on the water after sunset. You don't need a passport or ID to board; we simply recommend keeping a photo of your ID on your phone.
Paying, cancelling and the weather
There's no prepayment: you book on WhatsApp and pay on board, in cash or by card. You're free to cancel at any time — we only ask that you tell us at least 4 hours before departure. In bad weather, Istanbul's municipality halts boat traffic on the Bosphorus; if your night is affected, we'll help you rebook.
Travelling with children
Families are welcome on every package. Children aged 3–8 pay €5 less than the adult price, and babies under 3 come free. The Normal package — hotel transfer, no alcohol — usually suits families best.
Not sure which package to pick? Read Basic, Normal, Gold or VIP — which package is right for you, or see prices and photos of the cruise.
Book your night