Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, a private celebration, or simply want to explore Istanbul in style, a Bosphorus private yacht rental in Istanbul offers an unforgettable way to experience the city. With views of two continents, historical palaces, and illuminated bridges, cruising the Bosphorus on your own boat is a premium yet increasingly accessible activity.
This guide compares Istanbul boat hire on the Bosphorus by price, type, use-case, and onboard service. You’ll also find tips from the Istanbeautiful team, route suggestions, and how to choose the best option—whether you’re after an intimate cruise or a luxury event charter.
Istanbeautiful Team Note
“From 2-hour romantic rides to full-day events with catering and DJ, private Bosphorus yachts offer far more flexibility than group tours—and the price gap isn’t as big as most people think.”
At a Glance: Private Yacht Rental on the Bosphorus
Private Bosphorus yacht rentals in Istanbul start at around $90/hour, with luxury options reaching $300+ depending on size and services.
You can choose from 2-hour cruises to full-day charters, with flexible routes passing landmarks like Ortaköy, Rumeli Fortress, and the Bosphorus Bridge.
Most rentals include a licensed captain, crew, fuel, and basic drinks, while catering, decorations, and hotel transfers are optional extras.
Private yachts are perfect for romantic evenings, birthday celebrations, proposals, or business events—with full customization available.
For the best views and availability, book 3–5 days in advance and confirm all details such as route, boat model, amenities, and departure point.
What Is a Private Bosphorus Yacht Charter?
A private Bosphorus yacht charter gives you exclusive use of a boat—typically with a captain and crew—for a set duration, allowing full control over the itinerary, timing, guest list, and onboard experience.
What to Expect?
Majority of the tourists prefer Bosphorus cruise to experience this one time experience of the city, as well as for celebrating the specific moments such birthdays, wedding anniversaries, special days, etc.
With a private yacht rental or boat hire service by a duration of 2, 3, 4 and 8 hours, you can experience and enjoy an exclusive sightseeing on Istanbul Bosphorus from the private deck of a luxurious yacht along some of the most famous sites of the city.
You’ll definitely admire the stunning beauties of Bosphorus with 360 degree views from the spacious upper fly-bridge, or enjoy relaxing in comfort on the sun deck or in the comfortable outdoor and indoor lounges.
No Regrets Booking Advice
How It Differs from Regular Boat Tours
| Feature | Group Cruise | Private Yacht Hire Bosphorus |
|---|---|---|
| Price per person | Starts from ~$10–25 | Starts from ~$90/hour per yacht |
| Group size | 20–100 guests (shared) | 2–25 guests (your group only) |
| Route flexibility | Fixed | Fully customizable |
| Food & drinks | Standard menu | Custom catering or BYO |
| Privacy & noise | Crowded, limited seating | Full privacy, choose your own music vibe |
You can hire everything from a 2-person motor yacht for a sunset ride to a 40-person party yacht with catering, DJ, and lighting.
Istanbeautiful Team Insight
“A lot of people think yacht rental in Istanbul is only for the ultra-wealthy. In reality, for small groups or couples, a private 2-hour cruise can be surprisingly affordable—and way more memorable than any group tour.”
Pricing Breakdown: Hourly, Half-Day & Full-Day
When booking an Istanbul private yacht rental, prices vary depending on the yacht’s size, level of luxury, services included, and time of day. Whether you’re after a short sunset cruise or a full-day private event, here’s what to expect.
Hourly Rates (Most Popular)
| Yacht Type | Capacity | Price/Hour (USD) | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Motor Yacht | 1–8 guests | $90–$150 | Captain + crew, tea/coffee, water |
| Mid-size Yacht (Modern) | 8–15 guests | $150–$250 | Full service crew, light snacks, Bluetooth music |
| Luxury Yacht (Flybridge) | 10–25 guests | $250–$400 | Lounge decks, catering options, full crew |
- Most companies require a minimum of 2 hours for booking.
Half-Day or Full-Day Rates
Half-Day (4–5 hours): Starting from $350–$800
Full-Day (6–8 hours): Ranges $700–$1500+ depending on yacht class
Many longer rentals offer stops at restaurants, swimming coves, or include set lunch menus
What’s Usually Included
Private use of yacht + fuel
Licensed captain + crew
Tea, coffee, and bottled water
Port taxes
Optional: Turkish simit, cookies, seasonal fruit
What’s Not Always Included
Alcohol (available as extra or BYOB)
Hotel transfers
Catering or set menus (some offer à la carte pre-order)
Event-specific décor, lighting, photographer
Istanbeautiful Team Tip
“Don’t just look at hourly rates—ask what’s included. A $90/hour boat may not include fuel or crew, while a $150/hour yacht might come fully equipped with service, drinks, and great seating.”
Boat Types & Amenities
Choosing the right vessel for your private yacht hire on the Bosphorus depends on your group size, comfort expectations, and purpose of the cruise. Istanbul offers a wide range of boats, from sleek motor yachts to spacious luxury vessels—each with different layouts and onboard services.
Popular Yacht Types
1. Standard Motor Yacht
Capacity: 2–8 guests
Ideal for couples, proposals, or small families
Basic indoor cabin, small back deck
Bluetooth speaker, sunroof, restroom onboard
2. Mid-Size Modern Yacht
Capacity: 8–15 guests
Comfortable lounge seating on upper and rear decks
Indoor saloon with A/C, minibar, TV, and toilet
Good for casual parties or friend gatherings
3. Luxury Flybridge Yacht
Capacity: 10–25 guests
Two decks, leather interior, sunbathing beds
Onboard catering, music system, bar setup, Wi-Fi
Best for events, corporate functions, sunset dining
Onboard Amenities to Expect
| Amenity | Included in Most Boats |
|---|---|
| Restroom | ✔️ Standard on yachts over 10m |
| Air Conditioning | ✔️ In indoor saloon areas |
| Music System (Bluetooth) | ✔️ Standard |
| Kitchen/Minibar | ✔️ (Bring your own items allowed) |
| Crew (Captain + Assistant) | ✔️ Always included |
| Swimming Platform | ✔️ On larger boats |
Istanbeautiful Team Note
“For special occasions like anniversaries or proposals, ask for decor setup, custom playlists, or private chef service. Many operators accommodate these with 24–48 hours’ notice.”
Bosphorus Private Yacht Rental & Boat Hire: Top Picks
1. Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht
2,5 hours Bosphorus cruise on a 25 meters luxury yacht
This is one of the best and the most attended Bosphorus cruises. It is made on a luxury yacht and has a badge of excellence with over 400 5/5 stars reviews on Viator, and 335 excellent reviews and stars on GetYourGuide.
Highlights: Complimentary drinks and canapés are provided while you sail, find out about the history of Istanbul’s landmarks from your on-board guide, a cruise for all seasons: set sail at any time of the year, weather permitting, set out from an easy-to-find waterfront meeting point near public transport
Includes: This insightful tour is guided and commentated by an experienced host, Complimentary drinks (homemade lemonade in summer and fresh fruit juice in winter), tea and coffee State-of-the-art and customized vessels for passengers, luxury yacht, delicious canapés and snacks served aboard, coffee and/or tea, snacks
Departure: Kabatas pier (see location map)
Free cancellation with a FULL REFUND up to 24 hours in advance
Book Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht by Viator
Book Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht by GetYourGuide
2. Bosphorus Luxury Yacht Tour
This is a fantastic new yacht cruise made on a luxury yacht for small groups (max. 15 people) with very affordable prices. You can take it at noon or at sunset for 2 hours. We highly recommend this cruise as you’ll feel yourself very special in this private chartered luxury yacht.
Highlights: Cruise up and down the Bosphorus, passing the iconic palaces and historical sites, get a closer look at famous landmarks such as Dolmabahce Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Bosphorus Bridge and the Maiden Tower, a licensed and knowledgeable guide will share with you the stories and facts which accompany the many sites you pass, enjoy an intimate trip as group sizes are limited to 15 people
Includes: Glass of Wine, Fruits and Snacks, Unlimited Coffee, Tea and Soft Drinks, English Speaking Local Expert Guide, Free WiFi on Yacht
Departure: Kabatas pier (see location map)
Free cancellation with a FULL REFUND up to 24 hours in advance
Book Bosphorus Luxury Yacht Tour with 5% discount
3. Bosphorus Dinner / Lunch Cruise – Private & Customizable
2,5 hours Bosphorus cruise on a 25 meters luxury yacht
This is one of the best private Bosphorus cruises on a luxury yacht. You can enjoy the beauties of Istanbul on a private luxurious yacht while having your dinner or lunch served by a professional crew. You can also have a chance for sightseeing and/or swimming and relaxing while peacefully enjoying your day at the luxury yacht. You can also customize this tour according to your needs. All our tours start and end in Bebek, Besiktas, Istanbul.
Includes: Dinner, All Fees and Taxes, Restroom on board, Snacks, Bottled water, Soda/Pop, Alcoholic Beverages
Free cancellation with a FULL REFUND up to 24 hours in advance
Book Bosphorus Dinner / Lunch Cruise – Private & Customizable
4. Bosphorus Cruise on Yacht with Stopover on Asian Side
2,5 hours Bosphorus Cruise on a Luxury Yacht: Morning or Afternoon
This is one of the best way to explore the Bosphorus with stopover on the Asian side and explore Kanlica. It is made on a luxury yacht and has a badge of excellence with over 115 5/5 stars reviews on Viator.
Highlights: Cruise the Bosphorus on the Sunset Bosphorus yacht with a stop in Kanlıca, sip Turkish coffee and nibble on Turkish snacks in Asian Istanbul, onboard Wi-Fi saves on roaming charges and keeps you connected, range of time slots let you plan your day and fit more in
Includes: Coffee and/or Tea, Bottled water, Turkish delight served with along Turkish coffee, Air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi on board
Departure: Kabatas pier (see location map)
Free cancellation with a FULL REFUND up to 24 hours in advance
Book Bosphorus Yacht Cruise on Yacht with Stopover on Asian Side
5. Private Yacht for Surprise Events / Birthday, Proposal, Anniversary, Party
This is a great opportunity for the one who are looking for a private yacht cruise along the Bosphorus for their special events such as birthday, proposal, wedding, anniversary and parties. All arrangements are made with the provider which is a certified operator along Viator.
Free cancellation with a FULL REFUND up to 24 hours in advance
6. Istanbul Bosphorus Luxury Private Yacht Rental
You can enjoy a great Bosphorus yacht cruise on a luxury private yacht with guide, and enjoy the soft drinks and snacks in the company of stunning views with this top selling private Bosphorus yacht tour.
Highlights: Enjoy luxury transportation to and from your hotel in a non-smoking private van, Eat and drink complimentary soft drinks and snacks, Learn Bosphorus history with a live guide.
Includes: Transportation to and from your hotel, Complimentary soft drinks and snacks, Live guide in any language.
Free cancellation with a FULL REFUND up to 24 hours in advance
7. Istanbul: Private Bosphorus Cruise on a Luxurious Yacht
You can enjoy the Bosphorus in a fantastic way with this a 2-hour cruise on board a luxury yacht and with professional local guide onboard.
Highlights: Enjoy the luxury of a private Bosphorus cruise by motor yacht, Take in views of top sights including the Dolmabahce Palace, Ciragan Palace, and Beylerbeyi Palace, amongst others, Sit back and sip a complimentary beverage as you enjoy the refreshing breeze.
Includes: 2-hour private yacht tour, Unlimited tea, coffee, and water, Crew, fuel, and all taxes, Private licensed tour guide, Transportation with private van.
Free cancellation with a FULL REFUND up to 24 hours in advance
8. Istanbul Private Bosphorus Cruise
You can enjoy the Bosphorus the real way as you zigzag between the Asian and European continents with exclusive English and German speaking professional and local guide onboard.
Highlights: Sit back and relax during an exclusive cruise on a private yacht, Learn about the history and culture of lesser known neighborhoods from your local guide, Admire the famous Ottoman wooden manors, fortresses and palaces.
Includes: Private yacht, Private transfer from hotel to Kabatas and back, Private expert tour guide, Soft drinks onboard, Full crewed boat.
Free cancellation with a FULL REFUND up to 24 hours in advance
Top Routes and Private Stops
One of the key advantages of booking a Bosphorus private cruise in Istanbul is full control over your route. Whether you’re planning a 2-hour sightseeing loop or a full-day escape, the Bosphorus offers stunning architecture, palaces, and hidden coves between Europe and Asia.
Popular 2–3 Hour Cruise Route (Standard Loop)
Departure: Kabataş, Karaköy, or Bebek
Route Highlights:
Ortaköy Mosque (great for photos)
Under the Bosphorus Bridge
Beylerbeyi Palace (Asian side)
Kuleli Military High School
Rumeli Fortress
Return via Asian side (Vaniköy, Kandilli)
Best for: Sunset viewing, quick cityscape photography, couples
Half-Day Route Add-ons (4–5 Hours)
Short anchor at Anadolu Kavağı (fishing village)
Lunch stop at a Bosphorus-side seafood restaurant (e.g., in Arnavutköy)
Swimming stop near Tarabya (summer only)
Full-Day Itinerary (6–8 Hours)
Sail toward the Black Sea mouth
Stop at Poyrazköy or Garipçe for lunch or beach
Optional anchoring for drone shots, photo shoots, or long events
Return around sunset through the heart of the Bosphorus
Istanbeautiful Team Tip
“For romantic or photography-focused cruises, ask the captain to slow down at Ortaköy, Rumeli Fortress, and Kuleli. These look incredible just before sunset when the golden light hits both sides of the strait.”
Best Occasions & Use-Cases
A private yacht rental on the Bosphorus isn’t just for sightseeing—it’s a versatile experience that fits everything from simple sunset rides to high-end events. Here are the most common (and creative) ways people use private boats in Istanbul:
Celebrations & Special Moments
Proposals & Romantic Cruises
2-hour sunset route with rose petals, champagne, soft music
Many boats offer surprise planning support (ring, decor, candles)
Birthdays & Anniversaries
Custom playlists, birthday cake, onboard photography
Some yachts allow DJ setups or live musicians
Intimate Weddings
Up to 20–25 guests
Onboard catering, seating arrangement, and floral design
Ideal for symbolic ceremonies with the Bosphorus as your backdrop
Corporate & Creative Use
Business Meetings or VIP Hosting
Discreet, quiet setting with light catering
Unique way to impress clients or foreign partners
Photo Shoots & Video Production
A favorite among influencers and fashion brands
Soft light in the early morning or golden hour is ideal
Most boats allow drone usage with prior notice
Istanbeautiful Team Insight
“We’ve seen everything from music video shoots to surprise wedding proposals happen onboard. If you explain your idea in advance, most yacht operators can tailor the setup—even with just 24 hours’ notice.”
Other Experiences
Fishing excursions (some yachts provide equipment)
Sunrise meditation or yoga on the upper deck
Private Bosphorus brunch with catering for weekend mornings
Booking & Legal Checklist
Before confirming your Bosphorus private yacht rental in Istanbul, it’s important to go beyond visuals and price tags. A smooth experience depends on knowing what’s included, what’s legal, and what can go wrong if you skip the fine print.
Key Questions to Ask Before Booking
Is the yacht licensed and insured for commercial/private use?
Does the price include fuel, taxes, and crew wages?
What happens in case of rain or cancellation?
Is there a late fee or strict time policy?
Are alcohol, food, and outside guests allowed?
Many charter platforms now allow direct messaging before booking—use it.
Booking Terms & Payment
Most operators require a 30–50% deposit at booking, balance paid 24–48 hours before departure
Credit card, bank transfer, and online platforms like GetYourGuide or Viator are common
Always ask for a booking confirmation with:
Yacht name and model
Route or duration
Guest capacity
Inclusions and extra services
Meeting point and boarding time
Cancellation Policies
Flexible operators allow full refund up to 24–48 hours before cruise
In case of bad weather, most allow rescheduling or issue a refund
Private events (weddings, photo shoots) often have stricter terms
Istanbeautiful Team Tip
“Always double-check whether the boat is fully licensed for private charter. Unlicensed operators may offer tempting rates—but they can cancel last-minute or be stopped mid-route by harbor patrol.”
Insider Tips (Istanbeautiful Team)
After helping dozens of travelers and locals plan their private Bosphorus cruises, we’ve collected some important do’s and don’ts that can elevate your experience—without costing extra.
Istanbeautiful Team Tip
“The best time to start a 2-hour cruise is 60–90 minutes before sunset. That way you enjoy golden light on the European shore and the city fully illuminated on your return.”
What to Bring
Light jacket or shawl (even summer evenings can get breezy)
Sunglasses or sunscreen for midday cruises
Bluetooth playlist if you want to set the mood
Tip cash for the crew (not required, but appreciated)
Booking Timing
Book at least 3–5 days in advance during high season (April–October)
Last-minute bookings are possible, but you’ll get fewer boat options and might miss sunset slots
If you want a decorated setup or special menu, notify the provider 24–48 hours beforehand
Seating & Setup Tips
Ask for the seating plan—some yachts have shaded upper decks, some don’t
For events or surprises, ask the operator if you can arrive early to set up
For photography, request slower cruising past Ortaköy, Rumeli Fortress, and Kız Kulesi
Communication Tips
Most captains speak basic English, but detailed arrangements should go through a booking assistant
Save the captain’s or coordinator’s WhatsApp number
Clarify boarding location and boat name ahead of time—there are multiple piers in Karaköy, Kabataş, Bebek, and Arnavutköy
Important Questions & Answers
How much does it cost to rent a private yacht on the Bosphorus?
Private yacht rentals in Istanbul typically start at $90–$150 per hour, with luxury options reaching $300+ per hour depending on boat size and services.
What is included in a Bosphorus private yacht rental?
Most rentals include the yacht, fuel, licensed captain, crew, water, and tea/coffee. Catering, alcohol, hotel transfers, and decorations are usually extra.
Can I rent a private yacht for just 2 hours?
Yes, many operators offer 2-hour private yacht hire, ideal for romantic sunset cruises or quick sightseeing loops.
Are there any legal requirements for renting a yacht in Istanbul?
You don’t need a boating license to rent with a crew. However, always confirm that the operator is licensed and insured for commercial charter.
Where do private yachts depart from in Istanbul?
Common departure points include Karaköy, Kabataş, Bebek, and Arnavutköy. The meeting location is usually confirmed after booking.
Can I bring my own food and drinks onboard?
Many boats allow BYO drinks or snacks, but you should confirm in advance. Some charge a corkage or cleaning fee.
Are private yacht rentals suitable for events?
Yes, yachts can host proposals, birthdays, anniversaries, corporate meetings, and even small weddings with advance coordination.
What happens in case of bad weather?
Most operators allow you to reschedule or receive a refund if conditions are unsafe for sailing. Policies vary, so check before booking.
Is alcohol allowed on board?
Yes, alcohol is allowed on most private yacht charters in Istanbul. Some offer drink packages, while others allow you to bring your own.
How far in advance should I book?
For sunset cruises or decorated setups, book at least 3–5 days in advance. Last-minute bookings are possible but limited in availability.