• Jan 1 – Jan 15: 16.15
• Jan 16 – Jan 31: 16.30
• Feb 1 – Feb 15: 16.45
• Feb 16 – Feb 29: 17.00
• Mar 1 – Mar 15: 17.15
• Mar 16 – Mar 31: 17.30
• Apr 1 – Apr 15: 17.45
• Apr 16 – Apr 30: 18.00
• May 1 – May 15: 18.15
• May 16 – May 31: 18.30
• Jun 1 – Jun 15: 18.45
• Jun 16 – Jun 30: 19.00
• Jul 1 – Jul 15: 19.00
• Jul 16 – Jul 30: 18.45
• Aug 1 – Aug 15: 18.30
• Aug 16 – Aug 31: 18.15
• Sep 1 – Sep 15: 17.45
• Sep 16 – Sep 31: 17.30
• Oct 1 – Oct 15: 16.45
• Oct 16 – Oct 30: 16.30
• Nov 1 – Nov 15: 16.15
• Nov 16 – Nov 31: 16.00
• Dec 1 – Dec 15: 15.45

1. Bosphorus Strait
2. Dolmabahce Palace
3. Ciragan Palace Kempinski
4. Ortakoy District
5. Ortaköy Mosque
6. Bosphorus Bridge
7. Bebek District
8. Egyptian Consulate
9. Arnavutköy
10. Rumeli Fortress
11. Anadolu Hisari Fort
12. Kucuksu Pavilion
13. Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge
14. Çamlıca Mosque
15. Tv and Radio Tower
16. Beylerbeyi Palace
17. Kuzguncuk
18. Maidens Tower (Kiz Kulesi)
19. Galata Bridge
20. Galata Tower
21. Golden Horn (Halic)
22. Galata Port
23. Modern Art Museum
24. Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University
25. Kabataş Pier

Welcome aboard! Today, as we sail the magnificent waters of the Bosphorus Strait, we are embarking on a journey that spans two continents and over 2,000 years of history. Prepare to be enchanted by Istanbul’s spectacular blend of East and West, past and present. I'll be your guide through this storied landscape of palaces, fortresses, and bridges—each with its own incredible tale.

1. Bosphorus Strait

Our journey begins on the Bosphorus, the heart of Istanbul. This narrow, 32 km (20 miles) strait connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara and divides the city between Europe and Asia. It has always been a strategic waterway—controlled first by the Byzantines and then the Ottomans. The Bosphorus has witnessed centuries of trade, conquest, and cultural exchange, making it one of the most significant waterways in the world. Today, you'll enjoy stunning views of both continents and the monuments that line these historic shores.

2. Dolmabahçe Palace

On your left, you’ll see the majestic Dolmabahçe Palace, completed in 1856 by Sultan Abdülmecid I. It took 13 years and 5 million Ottoman gold lira to build—an astronomical sum at the time. The palace has 285 rooms, 46 halls, and 6 Turkish baths, reflecting a blend of European styles with Ottoman grandeur. What makes it extraordinary is the world's largest Bohemian crystal chandelier, weighing a staggering 4.5 tons and featuring 750 lamps. It served as the Ottoman Empire’s administrative center during its final years and even housed the founding father of the Turkish Republic, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who passed away here in 1938.

3. Çırağan Palace Kempinski

Further along, you'll see the elegant Çırağan Palace, now a luxury hotel. Originally built in 1867 by Sultan Abdülaziz, this palace took four years to complete. It has 310 rooms, all designed with a blend of Renaissance, Ottoman, and Rococo styles. It was used for various functions, including royal ceremonies and as a summer palace. Sadly, it burned down in 1910 but was beautifully restored in the 1990s.

4. Ortaköy District

As we glide past Ortaköy, notice the lively atmosphere. Historically, Ortaköy was a multi-cultural area, home to Turks, Greeks, Armenians, and Jews living in harmony. It’s famous for its vibrant markets, waterfront cafes, and stunning views. Be sure to visit the street vendors for a taste of "kumpir" (stuffed baked potatoes) when you come back to land!

5. Ortaköy Mosque (Büyük Mecidiye Mosque)

Now, direct your gaze toward the dazzling Ortaköy Mosque, one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Istanbul. Built in 1854 under Sultan Abdülmecid I, this mosque’s exquisite waterfront location and intricate designs make it a highlight. Its grand dome and two towering minarets are especially striking when reflected in the Bosphorus waters.

6. Bosphorus Bridge (15 July Martyrs Bridge)

Look up and behold the Bosphorus Bridge, completed in 1973 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Republic of Turkey. It spans 1,560 meters (5,118 feet), connecting Europe and Asia. This suspension bridge is a feat of modern engineering, and more than 180,000 vehicles cross it daily. Fun fact: You can literally walk from one continent to another during the annual Bosphorus Marathon!

7. Bebek District
Nestled between hills and the sea, Bebek is one of Istanbul's most affluent neighborhoods. Known for its trendy cafes and picturesque parks, it’s a favorite for a leisurely afternoon. The area has been popular since Byzantine times and was a summer retreat for Ottoman nobility.

8. Egyptian Consulate
The striking Egyptian Consulate building along the Bosphorus is a remnant of Egypt’s close ties to the Ottoman Empire. Built in the 19th century, this mansion once hosted Egyptian royalty and now serves diplomatic purposes.

9. Arnavutköy
Next, we pass Arnavutköy, famous for its historic Ottoman mansions and seafood restaurants. This district was home to Greek, Jewish, and Armenian communities for centuries. Its charming, narrow streets are lined with wooden houses that date back to the 19th century.

10. Rumeli Fortress (Rumeli Hisarı)
On our left, the imposing Rumeli Fortress looms large. Built in 1452 by Sultan Mehmed II in just four months, this fortress played a crucial role in the conquest of Constantinople by controlling the Bosphorus and preventing Byzantine reinforcements from entering the city. The walls are 60 meters tall (about 197 feet), and the fortress itself covers an area of 31,250 square meters. Today, it serves as an open-air museum and a venue for summer concerts.

11. Anadolu Hisarı Fort
Across the water is Anadolu Hisarı, built earlier in 1395 by Sultan Bayezid I as a counterpart to Rumeli Fortress. It was part of an Ottoman strategy to control the Bosphorus. Though smaller than its sibling across the water, Anadolu Hisarı is a charming fortress surrounded by scenic waterfront cafes.

12. Küçüksu Pavilion
Look to the Asian side to spot the graceful Küçüksu Pavilion, a small summer hunting lodge for Ottoman sultans. Built in 1857, this neo-Baroque palace is richly decorated with marble, gilded ceilings, and stunning frescoes. It only has two floors, but its beauty more than makes up for its size.

13. Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge
The second bridge connecting Europe and Asia is the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, completed in 1988. It’s named after the Ottoman sultan who conquered Constantinople in 1453. Slightly longer than the first bridge, it stretches 1,510 meters (4,954 feet) and can be spotted at the northern end of the Bosphorus.

14. Çamlıca Mosque
Perched on the highest hill of Istanbul’s Asian side, the Çamlıca Mosque is Turkey’s largest mosque. Completed in 2019, it can hold over 63,000 worshippers and features a massive dome, six minarets, and stunning Ottoman-Islamic architecture. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Bosphorus and the city.

15. Çamlıca TV and Radio Tower
Standing tall beside the mosque is the Çamlıca TV and Radio Tower, the tallest structure in Istanbul. Completed in 2020, it stands at 369 meters (1,211 feet) and provides panoramic views of the entire city.

16. Beylerbeyi Palace
Nestled along the water, Beylerbeyi Palace was completed in 1865 as a summer residence for Ottoman sultans. It took only 12 years to build this elegant palace, which has 24 rooms, 6 halls, and a stunning grand staircase. French Empress Eugénie stayed here during her visit to Istanbul!

17. Kuzguncuk
Now we sail past Kuzguncuk, a peaceful neighborhood known for its diverse population of Jews, Greeks, and Armenians. The area is famous for its colorful houses, leafy streets, and local charm.

18. Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi)
One of the most romantic landmarks in Istanbul is the Maiden’s Tower, a small tower on an islet. According to legend, an emperor built it to protect his daughter from a prophecy that she would be killed by a snake. The tower has served as everything from a lighthouse to a quarantine station. Today, it houses a café and restaurant with incredible views of the city.

19. Galata Bridge
We now approach the bustling Galata Bridge, which spans the Golden Horn. The bridge has a long history, with several iterations dating back to the 19th century. Fishermen line the bridge, and beneath, you'll find restaurants serving fresh seafood.

20. Galata Tower
Towering over the skyline is the iconic Galata Tower, built in 1348 by the Genoese. Standing at 67 meters (220 feet), it was originally used as a watchtower for defense. The panoramic views from the top are unmatched.

21. Golden Horn (Haliç)
The Golden Horn is an inlet that divides the historic center of Istanbul from the rest of the city. It’s steeped in history, having served as the city’s primary harbor during Byzantine and Ottoman times. The waters have witnessed naval battles, trading ships, and cultural transformations.

22. Galataport
The modern Galataport project has revitalized the waterfront, offering new shopping, dining, and cultural spaces. It’s also a cruise terminal that welcomes visitors from around the world.

23. Modern Art Museum (Istanbul Modern)
The Istanbul Modern Art Museum showcases contemporary Turkish and international art. Its sleek design is a testament to Istanbul’s modern cultural landscape.

24. Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University
Founded in 1882, the Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University is one of Turkey's premier art schools, located right by the Bosphorus. Its historic campus reflects Istanbul's deep artistic heritage.

25. Kabataş Pier
Finally, we approach Kabataş Pier, a central hub for ferries and boat tours. It’s a perfect spot to start or end your journey on the Bosphorus.