Istanbul New Year Bosphorus Cruise: 2025 Prices & Best Boats

Our Picks: No Regrets Bosphorus NYE Cruises

Below is our recommended and top selling Bosphorus NYE Cruises with Entertainment offered by Viator and Getyourguide.

You can check the programs, read the comments and decide which to choose as all of them are quality and trusted ones. If they fail you, they’d loose their ranking so we believe you’ll get the best service.

1. Istanbul New Year’s Eve Dinner and Party Cruise on the Bosphorus (best one, from $230 per person)
2. Istanbul New Year’s Eve 2026 Dinner and Party Cruise on Bosphorus (special offer, from $302 per person)
3. Istanbul: New Year’s Eve Bosphorus Cruise with Dinner Option (special offer, from $236 per person)
4. Istanbul New Year Party Cruise trough Bosphorus (special offer, from $296 per person)

What’s Actually Included

On the new year’s eve Bosphorus dinner cruise, you’re not just boarding a boat, you’re entering a curated celebration. The question “what’s included dinner menu new year cruise Istanbul?” is one we hear a lot.

So here’s a breakdown of what you’ll get (and what you might pay extra for).

Dinner & Drinks

Most cruises start around 9:00 pm and last 4 to 5 hours, returning around 2:00 am.

According to a live listings on GetYourGuide and Viator, a 2026 NYE cruise from Kabataş includes a 3-course dinner, a welcome cocktail, unlimited local alcoholic drinks, a champagne toast at midnight, and hotel pickup/drop-off, priced “from $320 USD per person”.

Here’s what a typical menu looks like:

• Cold starters (mezze: hummus, stuffed vine-leaves, potato salad)
• Soup or warm starter
• Main course choice (grilled fish or mixed meat grill or vegetarian option)
• Dessert and Turkish tea or coffee
• Unlimited soft drinks and wine/beer; imported spirits often extra

So, dinner + drinks + skyline = what you paid for. But there are layers.

• If you go with a standard tier, you’ll get shared tables, fewer premium drinks, basic seats on the deck.
• In a premium or VIP front table tier, expect better seating near the Bosphorus Bridge, open bar with imported drinks, better service and comfort.
• The private yacht option is fully bespoke: choose your food, pick your music playlist, control your boarding time, you’re essentially renting the night.

Shows & Entertainment

Expect a full lineup:

• Arrival welcome with cocktail
• Live folk dance performance
• Belly dance show Bosphorus cruise segment (yes, part of the night)
• Whirling dervish show cruise Istanbul moment (on some mid-/premium boats)
• DJ set or international music leading up to midnight
• Champagne toast at exactly 00:00, simultaneous with the fireworks overhead

A traveler review noted:

“The view from the top deck was stunning… the belly dancer even brought me on stage.” GetYourGuide – So yes, entertainment is part of the package. But ask: how many shows, how many minutes you’re on deck vs indoors, how crowded.

Midnight Moment & Fireworks View

This is the highlight. As you sail under or near the Bosphorus Bridge, you’ll watch fireworks burst over the strait, a simultaneous show on both continents.

Operators list this as part of the experience. For example, Lokalee lists a “watch the fireworks from the boat” cue for a 2026 cruise priced from $294.50 USD.

Main things to check:

• Does your boat pause or slow near the bridge? (“does the boat stop under the bridge for fireworks?”)
• Is there an open deck or outdoor terrace? If it’s fully indoor, the view might be partially blocked.
• For best photos: stand on the starboard side (right side) as you approach the bridge that most operators pass it in that orientation.
• Weather matters: wind from the sea can blow smoke back over the boat. Operators rarely guarantee front-row seats unless you pay premium.

Hidden Details Worth Confirming

• Is hotel pickup included (this can save you a lot of taxi hassle)? GetYourGuide and Viator listings often include hotel transfer.
• What’s the dress code? Premium yachts often specify smart-casual, no flip-flops, bring a jacket.
• Are vegetarian/vegan/halal options available? Yes, many cruises note this in inclusions.
• Motion-sickness? If you’re sensitive to waves, pick a larger vessel and request a table mid-ship for smoother ride.
• Pricing transparency: Many sites list “from $320 USD” but hidden fees (import spirits, tips) can add up.
• Cancellation policy: On several listings free cancellation up to 24 hours, but private yachts may not offer the same flexibility.

Prices: Real Bands by Tier

Choosing the right “new year’s eve Bosphorus dinner cruise” in Istanbul means knowing what you pay for, and what that price actually includes.

Here are realistic bands based on current listings and what you’ll get at each level.

Standard Cruise (Entry Level)

• Typical price: from about $300 USD per person.
• Inclusions: multi-course dinner, local soft drinks + beer/wine, live Turkish music or dance show, cruising past the Bosphorus Bridge at midnight.
• Expect shared tables, basic drink options, large group boat, modest deck space.
• Best for: travelers who want the view and vibe without breaking the bank.
• Caveat: mid-night crowd, deck space may be limited, open bar may be basic.

Mid-Range Cruise (Comfort + Entertainment)

• Typical price: $450-$650 USD per person (approximate range based on upgraded offers).
• Inclusions: upgraded dinner menu, unlimited drinks (including local spirits), better seat location, live DJ, bigger show (often includes belly dance show and whirling dervish show).
• Best for: couples or groups wanting a bit of indulgence and comfort but still good value.

Premium Cruise (Luxury + Best View)

• Typical price: $700-$1,000+ USD per person for premium front-row tables under the bridge, imported drinks, champagne at midnight, premium service.
• Inclusions: private/assigned table near the fireworks, indoor-outdoor deck access, smaller group, upscale ambiance.
• Best for: travelers who want a premium experience and will use all the extras (open bar, photo service, table with view).

Private Yacht Experience (Fully Bespoke)

• Price: from $1,500 USD+ per person, depending on group size, yacht size, and custom extras.
• Inclusions: full private boat for your group, custom dinner menu, flexible timing, full control of the experience.
• Best for: families or VIP groups wanting complete privacy and control.
• Pro tip: these book out first and require confirming license/insurance.

Summary Table

Istanbeautiful Team Note:
“Don’t just pick the cheapest cruise because of the view, your nearest seat to the fireworks depends more on deck layout than just boat rank. Check the ‘front-row under-bridge’ wording, not just the price tag.”

You can book our picks of the best Bosphorus NYE Dinner Cruises below.

by Getyourguide

by Viator

Where You Board: Piers, Check-In, Transfers

If you’ve ever tried to find your Bosphorus yacht New Year party in the middle of December traffic, you know this: finding the right pier can be harder than finding the fireworks.

So before you book, double-check where your boat actually leaves from, not all listings make this clear, and walking between piers on New Year’s Eve isn’t fun in evening shoes.

Most Common Departure Points

Kabataş Pier (European Side)

The busiest and easiest to reach. Connected to T1 Tram, F1 Funicular, and M2 Metro. Most mid-range and premium cruises board here, including the ones listed on GetYourGuide and Viator.

Boarding usually starts around 8:30 pm, sailing by 9:00 pm. Expect moderate crowds but good signage and lighting.

If you booked hotel pickup New Year cruise Istanbul, confirm your pickup window, typically 7:30–8:00 pm for central hotels.

Karaköy or Beşiktaş Piers (European Side)

Quieter than Kabataş, but some operators use these for smaller boats or private yachts. Both are reachable by taxi or tram, though parking is limited after 8 pm.

Best for: travelers staying near Taksim, Cihangir, or Galata.

Üsküdar or Kadıköy Piers (Asian Side)

Increasingly popular for the family-friendly Bosphorus New Year cruise Istanbul crowd. Offers a smoother boarding experience and a less chaotic return. Ferries run late, and taxis are easier to find after the fireworks.

Departure times: around 9:00 pm, returning by 2:00 am.

Private Marinas (Kuruçeşme, Arnavutköy, or Çengelköy)

Used mainly for private yacht charters and high-end cruises. Expect better crowd control, private entrances, and reserved parking.

A staff member typically calls you with your exact dock number before 7 pm.

Istanbeautiful Team Tip:
“Don’t just type ‘Kabataş Pier’ into Google Maps. There are multiple docks there, look for your operator’s name or logo at the entrance. We’ve seen travelers miss their cruise by standing at the wrong gate.”

Check-In and Return Timeline

According to live listings and reviews on GetYourGuide/Viator, boarding generally follows this pattern:

• 8:00–8:30 pm: boarding begins (welcome cocktail served).
• 9:00 pm: boats depart.
• 11:50 pm: most vessels position near the Bosphorus Bridge for the fireworks.
• 12:00–12:15 am: fireworks over both continents.
• 1:00–1:30 am: slow cruise back toward port.
• 2:00 am: return to pier, followed by hotel transfers.

“Our hotel pick-up arrived exactly at 7:45 pm, and we were back by 2:15 am. Smooth and organized,” — TripAdvisor review, December 2024.

Transport Tips from Locals

• If you’re coming by public transport, take the tram (T1) to Kabataş, it runs until about 2 am, per Metro İstanbul’s 2025 holiday schedule.
• Avoid driving that most central roads around Beşiktaş, Taksim, and Dolmabahçe will be very very crowded by 8 pm.
• Download BiTaksi or Uber Türkiye if you’ll need a ride home after 2 am.
• Ferries from Üsküdar to Beşiktaş and Karaköy also run until late night for post-fireworks returns.

Istanbeautiful Team Note:
“Traffic along the Bosphorus can freeze after 9 pm. If your hotel is nearby, walking ten minutes is better than sitting in a taxi for forty.”

View Strategy: Best Deck Side, Bridge Timing & Weather Tips

The moment everyone waits for on the Istanbul New Year Bosphorus cruise is the countdown, when the captain slows the boat, the lights dim, and the sky bursts open with fireworks above the bridge.

What most travelers don’t realize is that where you stand on deck can completely change your experience (and your photos).

Which Side of the Deck Has the Best Fireworks View?

If your boat sails from Kabataş or Karaköy, you’ll approach the Bosphorus Bridge from the west. That means the starboard side (right side) faces the bridge directly when fireworks start.

• Stand mid-deck to avoid smoke from the funnels.
• Avoid being too close to the speakers; most DJ booths are aft (rear).
• If it’s windy (a strong lodos), smoke may blow south, walk to the opposite rail for clearer photos.

Istanbeautiful Team Tip:
“When the countdown hits ten, most people rush to the edge. Step back half a meter, angle toward the bridge lights, and you’ll get cleaner photos without flash glare.”

Timing the Bridge Moment

According to live GetYourGuide/Biator listings and 2025 operator updates, boats typically reach the bridge zone around 11:50 pm and slow or anchor briefly until 12:10 am. Not every cruise stops under the bridge, some circle slightly east near Beşiktaş or Ortaköy for safety spacing.

• Standard cruises often maintain gentle motion while the fireworks go off.
• Mid-range and premium boats usually pause longer to let guests enjoy the view.
• Private yachts can request custom positioning directly beneath the first span.

If you care about photos and that cinematic “bridge above you” shot, confirm with your operator that they “pause near the 15 July Martyrs Bridge during the fireworks”.

Weather Reality on the Bosphorus (Dec 31)

New Year’s Eve in Istanbul averages 43–50 °F (6–10 °C) with a 30 % chance of rain or fog. The wind can drop the temperature dramatically on open decks.

Here’s what to know before you board:

• Bring layers: a windproof jacket, hat, gloves, and scarf.
• Shoes: non-slip soles, decks get slick with condensation.
• Photography gear: bring lens wipes; mist can fog lenses fast.
• Heated decks: premium yachts have indoor glass lounges; ask if yours does.
• Rain plan: most boats have retractable roofs or transparent enclosures, but they can fog up; go outside for 1–2 minutes for clear fireworks visibility.

TripAdvisor Traveler, 2024:
“It was freezing but so worth it. The captain slowed near the bridge, and the reflection on the water was unreal, best New Year’s Eve we’ve had anywhere.”

Standard vs Premium vs Private: What Actually Changes in Reality

Every Istanbul New Year Bosphorus cruise advertises “dinner, show, and fireworks”, but the experience feels completely different depending on what tier you choose.

Here’s what separates a $300 ticket from a $1,000 one, beyond the glossy marketing photos.

Standard Cruises – Affordable, Energetic, Slightly Chaotic

Think of this as the “everyone’s invited” version of the New Year’s Eve Bosphorus dinner cruise. Boats fit between 200 and 400 people, and most follow a fixed menu.

Drinks are usually local (beer, wine, rakı), and there’s a Turkish Night show with a belly dance performance and a short folk segment.

• Atmosphere: loud, colorful, full of cheers and clinking glasses.
• Music: mix of Turkish pop and international hits.
• Service: expect slower drink refills as midnight approaches.
• Seating: shared tables; first come, first served (unless specified).
• Average price: around $300 USD per person.

A reviewer on TripAdvisor summed it up perfectly:

“Food was okay, music was fun, and the fireworks made it unforgettable. Wouldn’t call it luxury, but for the price, we got what we hoped for.”

Istanbeautiful Team Insight:
“Standard cruises are like street festivals on water, imperfect but full of heart.”

Premium Cruises – Polished, Spacious, and Scenic

Premium packages sit in the sweet spot, comfort without stiffness. Boats are smaller (100–150 guests), seating is pre-assigned, and service feels organized.

These usually include unlimited local and imported drinks, live music, whirling dervish and belly dance shows, and a champagne toast at midnight.

• Atmosphere: lively but not rowdy; more like a classy wedding party.
• Seating: reserved tables (two to four people).
• View: strategically positioned near the bridge for fireworks.
• Entertainment: longer shows, DJ sets after midnight, and optional photo service.
• Average price: between $700 and $1,000 USD per person.

According to GetYourGuide/Viator listings and verified operator data, premium cruises are the most popular among international travelers because of the balance that you get the full show and comfort, without the crowd stress.

Istanbeautiful Team Tip:
“If you’re booking for two, pick a premium cruise. You’ll get space to move, guaranteed seats, and the view you actually paid for.”

Private Yacht Cruises – Intimate, Exclusive, Effortlessly Elegant

This is the Bosphorus yacht New Year party that influencers post about, a few friends, a private deck, and fireworks above the bridge with no strangers in sight.

You can charter anything from a small 40-foot yacht to a luxury mega-yacht with catering staff and a private chef. Dinner and drinks are customized (you choose the menu), and you can set your own music or bring a live musician.

• Atmosphere: calm, romantic, private, ideal for proposals or family gatherings.
• View: the captain positions the yacht under the bridge just before midnight.
• Service: personal crew, flexible timing, and direct pickup from marina or hotel.
• Average price: starting around $1,500 USD for a small group (8–12 people).

Istanbeautiful Team Note:
“Ask for marina access confirmation, licensed boats operate from Kuruçeşme or Arnavutköy. If someone offers ‘pickup from the shore’ for cash only, walk away.”

Reality Check – The True Differences

Bottom line:

• Go standard if you want energy on a budget.
• Choose premium if you want comfort and guaranteed views.
• Pick private if you want the Bosphorus all to yourself.

Istanbeautiful Team Advice:
“The real luxury isn’t the price tag, it’s space. If your table lets you stretch, dance, and still see the bridge, you’ve already upgraded your night.”

You can book our picks of the best Bosphorus NYE Dinner Cruises below.

by Getyourguide

by Viator

Sample Night: Timeline From Pick-Up to Drop-Off

To help you picture what the night really feels like, here’s a full walkthrough of a typical Istanbul New Year Bosphorus Cruise schedule. Times can shift slightly depending on your operator and pier, but this gives you a realistic rhythm from start to finish.

7:30–8:00 pm – Hotel Pick-Up (or Arrival at Pier)

If you booked hotel pickup for your New Year cruise, expect a call or WhatsApp message from your operator during the afternoon confirming your pickup time. Most shuttles reach central hotels in Taksim, Sultanahmet, or Karaköy between 7:15 and 8:00 pm.

If you’re heading to Kabataş Pier on your own, arrive early, by 8 pm, the line of boats is already glowing with lights and Turkish music echoing from the decks.

Istanbeautiful Team Tip:
“There’s no real ‘gate’ system, just a dozen boats tied up side by side. Ask a staff member to confirm your boat’s name before boarding. You’ll save yourself a pre-midnight sprint.”

8:30–9:00 pm – Boarding & Welcome Cocktail

As you step on board, a waiter offers a welcome drink, often sparkling wine or fruit punch. You’ll find your table (sometimes shared, sometimes reserved) and settle in while the city lights stretch out in every direction. The boat eases away from the pier, and that hum of excitement starts to build.

Most standard cruises fill up quickly; premium yachts give you more space to wander. The DJ tests the sound, the dervish performer starts his slow, mesmerizing spin, and cameras click from every corner.

9:00–10:30 pm – Dinner Service & Live Shows Begin

Dinner service rolls out in courses, mezze plates first, then soup, then your main dish (usually fish, chicken, or mixed grill). Between bites, you’ll see short performances:

• A whirling dervish show to start the night, calm and hypnotic.
• A traditional folk dance, often followed by a belly dance show that brings everyone to life.
• The energy builds toward the DJ set that kicks off closer to 11 pm.

According to reviews on TripAdvisor, service on mid-range and premium cruises feels “restaurant-like”, while standard boats can be slower, especially during the main course rush.

10:30–11:45 pm – Dancing, Drinks, and Cruising Toward the Bridge

By now, the Bosphorus is alive with hundreds of boats gliding beneath the city’s glowing skyline. Glasses clink, music switches to party mode, and people start to dance.

Premium cruises offer an open bar (imported and local), while standard ones stick to beer, wine, or rakı refills. The captain begins steering the yacht toward the 15 July Martyrs Bridge, ready for the main event.

Istanbeautiful Team Note:
“Look to the shorelines around 11:30 pm — you’ll see the crowds in Ortaköy and Beşiktaş holding up phones. That’s when you know the countdown’s close.”

11:50 pm–12:10 am – Fireworks Over the Bosphorus

The boat slows or anchors near the bridge. The music fades, champagne bottles pop, and people count down in dozens of languages at once. Then, a burst of light over the water.

For the next ten minutes, the sky, the bridge, and both continents are illuminated in gold, red, and blue. It’s surreal.

Many boats play the national anthem, followed by more dancing and music. Some offer free photo service or drone footage (on premium packages).

12:15–1:30 am – Party Continues Onboard

After the fireworks, the DJ brings the energy back. Some guests head indoors for dessert and coffee; others dance outside under blankets.

• Premium and private cruises often switch to softer lounge music after 1 am.
• Standard cruises keep the party going until docking.

You’ll notice the skyline fading behind the fog, that’s usually when everyone’s cameras finally rest.

1:45–2:15 am – Return to Pier & Drop-Off

The boat glides back toward Kabataş or Üsküdar, lights reflecting on the calm water. Crew members wave goodbye, and the dock feels strangely quiet after the energy of midnight.

If you booked hotel transfers, shuttles line up along the road. Otherwise, taxis and late trams are available until around 2 am, according to Metro İstanbul’s New Year schedule.

Istanbeautiful Team Reminder:
“Leave five minutes after the main rush. The pier clears out fast, and walking back toward Dolmabahçe with the fireworks smoke still hanging in the air feels like stepping through the end credits of a movie.”

How to Book Safely

Every December, Istanbul’s waterfront fills with pop-up sellers and “too-good-to-be-true” Bosphorus yacht New Year party offers. Some are legit, many aren’t. The difference between an unforgettable night and a stressful one usually comes down to ten minutes of careful checking before you book.

Your Pre-Booking Safety Checklist

Check the License (TÜRSAB Number)

Every legitimate cruise operator must display their TÜRSAB registration number, it’s Turkey’s official travel agency license.

• Look for “A Group” agencies listed on tursab.org.tr.
• Avoid listings with only a WhatsApp number or personal name.

Confirm Pier Location in Writing

Many scams start here. Some sellers say “Kabataş Pier” but send you to a side dock 500 meters away with no signage.

• Legitimate operators will name the pier and gate number clearly.
• Ask for a Google Maps link and boarding time confirmation.
• If they say, “We’ll text you later”, that’s a red flag.

Read Refund & Cancellation Policies Carefully

Standard policy on verified sites like GetYourGuide or Viator is free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.

• Private yachts may require a 50% deposit and offer no refunds after December 20.
• Avoid anyone asking for full cash payment upfront.

Use Secure Platforms or Credit Card Payments

Stick to trusted booking sites or pay by card directly to the licensed company.
Avoid:

• Cash-only deals at piers.
• “Friend of the captain” offers.
• Unverified Instagram or Facebook sellers without a website or reviews.

According to TripAdvisor traveler warnings, several unlicensed operators disappear after collecting deposits in late December.

Verify Boat Capacity & Indoor Space

Ask: “How many guests total? Is there a heated indoor area?”

Many low-cost listings pack 300+ guests onto open decks with minimal shelter. If it rains, you’ll spend the night under a plastic tarp.

• Mid-range cruises (under 150 guests) offer better ratios.
• Premium yachts list their capacity publicly, usually 80 to 120 guests.

Reddit User /TravelTurkey2024:
“Our boat looked fancy online but had 250 people inside a small cabin. Couldn’t even move to see the fireworks. Lesson learned: always ask for capacity and indoor photos.”

Ask for Proof of Insurance

All licensed cruises operating on the Bosphorus must carry maritime insurance. If the operator hesitates or replies vaguely (“Yes, yes, of course”), that’s your cue to walk away.

Check Reviews, But Read Between the Lines

A page full of identical five-star reviews with no photos is usually fake. Look for reviews that mention:

• Specific pier names (Kabataş, Karaköy, Üsküdar)
• Exact timelines (“We boarded at 8:45 pm…”)
• Comments about staff, music, or dinner service

Those are the real ones.

Red Flags That Mean Stop

• No TÜRSAB number or official company name.
• Payment requested via Western Union or personal bank transfer.
• Price below $200 USD for a full dinner + open bar + show (that’s not realistic).
• “Free fireworks viewing” claims without Bosphorus access.
• Aggressive street sellers outside piers after 6 pm.

Where to Book Safely (2025 Season)

• GetYourGuide – Verified operators with live customer support and transparent pricing.
• Viator (TripAdvisor) – Full listings with refund policies and real traveler photos.
• TÜRSAB-registered local agencies

Our Picks: Bosphorus NYE Cruises

1. Istanbul New Year’s Eve Dinner and Party Cruise on the Bosphorus (best one, from $230 per person)
2. Istanbul New Year’s Eve 2026 Dinner and Party Cruise on Bosphorus (special offer, from $302 per person)
3. Istanbul: New Year’s Eve Bosphorus Cruise with Dinner Option (special offer, from $236 per person)
4. Istanbul New Year Party Cruise trough Bosphorus (special offer, from $296 per person)

Common Traveler Questions

Is the Bosphorus New Year cruise worth it?

Yes, if you value atmosphere and a once-a-year view. You’ll see both continents light up, the bridge illuminated, and fireworks from the water. Most travelers describe it as “a bucket-list night” rather than just another dinner. If you’re expecting a Michelin-style meal, it’s not that, it’s the setting that makes it unforgettable.

Which pier is best for boarding?

The most reliable options are Kabataş Pier (for central hotels) and Üsküdar Pier (for family-friendly access on the Asian side). Both are well lit, easy to reach, and operate until after 2 am. Avoid random side docks unless your operator sends the exact Google Maps link and company name.

Do the boats stop under the bridge for fireworks?

Most do, but not exactly under the bridge. The standard and mid-range cruises slow down near Beşiktaş or Ortaköy for a front-row angle. Premium yachts often anchor directly beneath the 15 July Martyrs Bridge, giving the most dramatic view. Ask the operator in advance: “Will you stop near the bridge during fireworks?”, that’s the key phrase.

What’s the dress code?

Smart-casual. Think cocktail attire, not tuxedo. Warm layers and closed shoes are essential as you’ll spend time outdoors. Avoid long heels on deck. Premium cruises may specify “elegant evening wear” in booking notes.

Is it safe for families and solo travelers?

Yes. Licensed operators maintain crowd control, life jackets, and onboard security. Solo travelers report feeling comfortable joining mixed tables.

How long does the cruise last?

Usually 4.5 to 5 hours, from 9 pm to 2 am. Private yachts can customize shorter itineraries, while larger boats may run slightly longer if traffic is heavy near the pier.

Can I book last minute?

Technically yes, practically no. By mid-December, premium and private cruises are fully booked. Standard boats may have space until December 28, but seat selection will be random. Book at least two weeks in advance for good seats and guaranteed hotel transfer.

Will it be cold on deck?

Yes. Temperatures hover around 43–50 °F (6–10 °C) and wind off the Bosphorus can bite. Most cruises have heated indoor lounges, but bring a jacket, gloves, and scarf if you want to watch outside during fireworks.

Do you tip the staff?

Tipping isn’t mandatory but appreciated. Locals usually leave 10–15 USD per couple or 5–10 % of the ticket price, given directly to the waiter or captain at the end.

What happens if it rains?

Cruises operate rain or shine. Boats have retractable roofs and heated interiors. Fireworks may appear dimmer in fog, but the reflections over the water still look incredible. If wind conditions are extreme, captains may delay sailing by a few minutes for safety.