Find Your Perfect Yacht for a Bosphorus Lunch Cruise
Bosphorus Lunch Cruise Yacht Options
Gallery: Stunning Moments From Our Bosphorus Lunch Cruises
Private Yacht Rental on the Bosphorus for Lunch









Why go on a Bosphorus Lunch Cruise?
Reasons why you should try a Bosphorus Lunch Cruise

Scenic Beauty
Enjoy breathtaking views of Istanbul's iconic landmarks and beautiful waterfront neighborhoods in the daylight during Bosphorus Lunch Cruise.

Flavors of Turkish Cuisine
Savor authentic Turkish flavors, such as mezes, meats, and seafood, prepared by local restaurants using fresh ingredients.

Personalized Experience
To enhance your Bosphorus cruise experience, you may customize it with various add-on options that allow you to tailor your trip to your preferences.

Historical Landmarks
Bosphorus cruise provides a unique perspective of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, such as the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque.

Relaxing Atmosphere
Bosphorus lunch cruise offers a peaceful escape from the busy streets of Istanbul, allowing you to relax and enjoy the serene waters.

Photographic Opportunities
The ever-changing scenery and iconic landmarks provide excellent opportunities for photography, capturing memorable moments of your trip.
Why Lotus Yachts?
Why Lotus Yachts is the Best Choice for a Luxury Bosphorus Sunset Cruise
Private Rental
Our private yacht trips are just for you and your friends or family. You can enjoy the sea without any interruptions!
Personalized Services
You can make your cruise just how you want it. We offer lots of customization options so your trip can match exactly what you're looking for.
Easy and Safe Booking
Our online system makes it simple and safe to book, allowing you to quickly secure your spot on the yacht of your choice.
Experienced Team
With over 2,000 yacht tours conducted in the past 5+ years, the Lotus Yachts team is here to ensure your Bosphorus cruise is smooth and enjoyable.
5-star Guest Reviews
People love our yacht tours and have given us 5-star reviews. They've had amazing experiences and repeatedly choose us for new adventures.
Top Landmarks to See on a Bosphorus Lunch Cruise
During the Bosphorus Lunch Cruise, you will be able to enjoy the views of;

Çırağan Palace

Rumeli Fortress

Dolmabahçe Palace

Ortakoy Mosque

Maiden's Tower

Beylerbeyi Palace

Historical Peninsula

Bosphorus Bridges
What is an Ideal Bosphorus Lunch Cruise Itinerary?
Bosphorus Lunch Cruise Itinerary

Bosphorus Lunch Cruise: What's Included & Optional Add-ons
Bosphorus Lunch Cruise Experience Overview
If you want to enjoy Istanbul in a unique and memorable way, consider a Bosphorus Lunch Cruise. The Bosphorus Strait, a significant waterway for centuries, offers a scenic route through the city's history. On a lunch cruise, you'll pass by many famous landmarks and picturesque neighborhoods along the water. The view of Istanbul from the Bosphorus is stunning, whether it's during the day or when the city is illuminated at night.
Keep reading to learn more about Bosphorus lunch cruises, the different types of yachts available, timings, and other useful information for a delightful and smooth trip.
Overview
- Private yacht; exclusive for you and your group
- Minimum 2-hour rental
- Customize your experience with "extra services"
What is included?
- Yacht Rental
- Certified Crew
- Music System with Bluetooth
- Fuel
- Insurance
Extra services
- Food & Drinks
- Decoration
- Photography
- Live Music
- Tour guide
- Hotel transfer
- Shows (laser, volcano)
Menu Options for Bosphorus Lunch Cruise
You have the flexibility to choose a menu for your taste

Mezze Menu
Enjoy our Mezze Menu, featuring five types of Turkish Mezze that offer a delightful array of traditional flavors. Complement your meal with included soft drinks and tea for a refreshing experience.

Meat Menu
Enjoy our Meat Menu, a culinary journey through Turkish flavors. Start with 4-5 types of Turkish Mezze, followed by a refreshing seasonal salad. The main course features a mix grill plate with a succulent variety of grilled meats. Finish with a shared plate of the season's freshest fruits. Soft drinks and tea are included.

Fish Menu
Savor the flavors of our Fish Menu, starting with 4-5 types of Turkish Mezze and a refreshing seasonal salad. Enjoy the main dish of grilled seasonal fish, perfectly cooked to highlight its natural flavors. End your meal with a shared plate of the season's freshest fruits. Soft drinks and tea are included.

Beverages
Explore our diverse beverage options, including soft drinks, bottled beer, and a selection of local wines and sparkling wines. For a premium experience, choose from bottles of gin, vodka, whiskey, or indulge in a bottle of Moet & Chandon.
Customize Your Bosphorus Lunch Cruise: Tailor Every Detail for a Unique Experience
Personalize your experience with premium add-ons
Make your Bosphorus Lunch Cruise a truly unforgettable experience with our customizable services. With a wide range of options to choose from we guarantee you a luxury-filled journey that caters to your every need.
It is very easy to add extra services while making a reservation; after selecting a yacht from our reservation system, choose the date, time, and duration of the cruise, and add extra services before making a payment.

Food and Beverages

Live Music Options

Photographer

Decoration & Celebration Options

Pick-up and Drop-off

Belly Dancer

Flower Bouquet
Private Bosphorus Lunch Cruises: Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
What are the meal options you provide on board?
We provide a range of meal options including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. You can select your preferred food and beverage options when you make your reservation.
Please click on the “Book Now” button. Then, select duration, date, and time. Next, select the food and beverages you wish to have on board from the Extra Services section.
We also cater to dietary preferences, including vegetarian and vegan meals. Please let us know in advance if you have any specific dietary requirements.
Is a Bosphorus lunch cruise on a private yacht worth it?
A Bosphorus lunch cruise is a delightful and relaxing way to explore Istanbul’s beauty in the daytime. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend escape or a tourist wanting to see the city’s highlights from a fresh perspective, a lunch cruise on the Bosphorus offers a perfect midday break with style and serenity.
Why You Should Take a Lunch Cruise on the Bosphorus?
1️⃣ Panoramic Daylight Views – Enjoy Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks in broad daylight, from the majestic Dolmabahçe Palace and Ortaköy Mosque to the Bosphorus Bridge and waterfront mansions. The clear skies and sunlight offer the best photo opportunities!
2️⃣ Relaxing Midday Escape – A lunch cruise is the perfect pause in your day. Whether you’re sightseeing or just want to unwind, sailing between two continents while enjoying a leisurely lunch is an unforgettable experience.
3️⃣ Tasty Local Cuisine – Indulge in a delicious lunch with Turkish specialties served fresh on board. You can also opt for a gourmet menu or customize your meal to include wine, dessert, or even a seafood feast.
4️⃣ Private & Comfortable – On a private yacht, you can enjoy your meal in a peaceful and exclusive setting. It’s ideal for couples, families, or small groups looking to enjoy the Bosphorus away from the crowds.
5️⃣ Perfect for Casual Celebrations – Whether it’s a birthday, small corporate lunch, or just a get-together with loved ones, a Bosphorus lunch cruise brings people together with great food, amazing views, and a memorable atmosphere.
If you’re in Istanbul, don’t miss out on this refreshing experience. A Bosphorus lunch cruise is the perfect blend of sightseeing, comfort, and culinary delight! 🚤🍽️☀️
Is a Private or Public Cruise Better?
Private Lunch Cruise (⭐ Best Option!) – Enjoy privacy, comfort, and full customization with a delicious lunch menu, relaxing music, and optional extras like a photographer or decorations. Perfect for couples, families, or small groups wanting a peaceful midday escape.
Public Lunch Cruise – A budget-friendly choice, but usually crowded and noisy. Limited food options and seating may affect the overall experience. Personalization isn’t possible.
📍 Final Verdict: A Bosphorus lunch cruise is a wonderful way to enjoy Istanbul from the water. For the most relaxing and memorable experience, a private yacht rental is the way to go.
✨ Want to book a private lunch cruise in Istanbul?
Lotus Yat offers luxury yacht rentals with customizable lunch experiences and unbeatable Bosphorus views. 🛥️🍽️☀️
Where do yachts depart from for Bosphorus lunch cruise?
Yacht rentals in Istanbul typically depart from central locations along the Bosphorus, depending on the selected yacht and the tour route. Here are the most frequently used departure points for yacht rentals:
🚤 Most Popular Yacht Departure Ports
✔ Kuruçeşme – One of the most prestigious departure points for luxury yacht rentals, located in the heart of the Bosphorus.
✔ Bebek – A popular starting point on the European side, known for its historic mansions and stunning waterfront views.
✔ Arnavutköy – A central departure point that offers easy access to the historic and picturesque parts of the Bosphorus.
✔ Karaköy – Ideal for those who want to start their tour near the Historic Peninsula.
✔ Kandilli & Kuleli – Convenient options for yacht rentals departing from the Asian side of Istanbul.
Each yacht has a different departure point, which you can view on the yachts’ booking page.
✨ Special Departure Locations on Request
To make your yacht rental experience even more exclusive, some yachts can depart from private marinas or hotel piers. If you have a specific request or preferred departure point, we can arrange a customized pick-up location for you.
📩 For more details on yacht rental and departure points, contact us today 🚤✨
How much does a Bosphorus lunch cruise by private yacht cost?
The cost of a yacht rental for private Bosphorus lunch tour in Istanbul depends on several factors, including the size of the yacht, duration of the rental, season, and additional services. Below, you’ll find key factors that determine the pricing for a private Bosphorus yacht tour.
Pricing Based on Rental Duration⏳
2-3 Hour Bosphorus Cruise – The most popular option for enjoying Istanbul’s breathtaking views.
Extended Cruises (4+ Hours) – Perfect for a dining experience combined with a longer cruise.
Full-Day Yacht Rental (6-8 Hours) – Great for a relaxing day on the Bosphorus or a swimming tour.
Pricing Based on Yacht Type⚓
Standard Yachts – Ideal for small groups and budget-friendly private tours.
Luxury & Mega Yachts – Larger, more comfortable yachts equipped for exclusive events and luxury experiences.
Reception Yachts – Luxury designs with spacious areas and premium event services for the most prestigious experience such as weddings, corporate events etc.
Additional Services & Cost Factors✨
🍽️ Private Dining & Catering – Gourmet menus, snacks, and drink options.
📸 Professional Photography & Drone Shooting – Capture unforgettable memories.
🎶 Live Music & DJ – Enhance your cruise with live entertainment.
💃 Belly Dance & Shows – Add a touch of Turkish culture to your experience.
🔥 Custom Decorations & Laser Shows – Perfect for marriage proposals, birthdays, and special celebrations.
Average Price Ranges 📌
While yacht rental prices in Istanbul vary depending on the yacht’s size and included services, the approximate ranges are:
✅ Standard yachts: Hourly €125 – €170 (4,500 – 6,500 TL)
✅ Luxury yachts: Hourly €180 – €300 (7,000 – 12,000 TL)
✅ Mega yachts & Reception yachts: Hourly €300+ (12,000 TL and above)
Get the Best Price for Your Private Yacht Tour!
Please click on the “Book Now” button to check the prices.
For an exclusive and unforgettable Bosphorus yacht rental experience, contact us today. At Lotus Yat, we offer a variety of customized yacht options to fit your needs and budget.
Is there a tour guide during the Bosphorus lunch tour?
Yes, upon request, we can arrange a knowledgeable tour guide for your cruise. The guide will provide insights into the landmarks you will see. An English-speaking crew member can also assist you throughout your yacht cruise. These services are available for an extra cost. You can add extra services while making your reservation.
What is the cancellation policy of Bosphorus lunch cruises?
Cancelling your reservation: We understand that plans can change. For a full refund, you can cancel your booking up to 7 days before your departure time.
Changing your reservation: At latest 1 day before your reservation, you can change the tour start time based on availability. You can extend the duration with hourly charges upon availability.
Is it possible to swim during a Bosphorus lunch cruise?
The Bosphorus has strong currents that can be challenging, even for experienced swimmers. It is only possible to swim at the designated areas.
Please check the swimming tours if you wish to swim at the Bosphorus.
Swimming tours are between 10:00 and 18:00 for 8 hours, which take place at Beykoz, 3rd Bridge or Princes’ Islands.
What happens if the weather is rainy or windy during the cruise?
Generally, weather conditions do not impact the Bosphorus yacht tours.
Our yachts are equipped with protective covers for rain and wind. This ensures that the tours proceed as scheduled, even in the event of rain or snow.
However, in the rare instance of a strong storm, captains may suggest rescheduling.
Tour postponement is only considered if the captain deems it unsafe to proceed. Otherwise, the tours continue as planned.
What do you wear on a Bosphorus cruise with lunch?
We recommend you wear comfortable, casual clothing with comfortable shoes. Depending on the season, you may bring a light jacket or sweater. Sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen are also advisable for daytime cruises.
Do I need to book a yacht in advance for an exclusive Bosphorus lunch cruise?
Yes, we recommend you book your yacht in advance to ensure availability. Especially during peak seasons and weekends, it is better to book 2-3 weeks in advance.
What are the safety measures on a Bosphorus yacht tour with lunch?
Safety measures include;
- life jackets for all passengers,
- first aid kits,
- fire extinguishers,
- and trained crew.
The yachts are regularly maintained and inspected to meet safety standards.
Is it possible to change the pick up location of the yacht?
You may request a different pick-up or drop-off location than the original location of the yacht. Please note that there is an extra cost for changing the original location. You can see these locations and the associated costs below:
Restaurants
You may request pick-up or drop-off from these restaurants only if you are a guest there. Additional charges may apply.
- Uskumru Restaurant
- Lacivert Restaurant
- Olea Bosphorus & The Bar
- Hakkasan Istanbul
- Novikov Istanbul
- Oligark Istanbul Restaurant
- Ali Ocakbaşı
Restaurants Close to the Piers
These restaurants are close to the piers where we can pick up or drop off. Additional charges may apply.
- Arnavutköy Balıkçısı
- Sur Balık
- Chacha
- Del Mare
- Bebek Balıkçısı
- Park Fora Fish & Seafood Restaurant
- Alaf Kuruçeşme
- Feriye
Hotels
You may request pick-up or drop-off from these restaurants only if you are a guest there. Additional charges may apply.
- Çırağan Palace Kempinski
- Four Seasons Bosphorus
- Mandarin Oriental Bosphorus
Other Locations
You may request pick-up or drop-off from these locations. Additional charges may apply.
- Bebek
- Arnavutköy Pier
- Kuruçeşme
- Ortaköy Pier
- Karaköy Pier
- Galataport
- Kandilli Pier
- Kuleli
Extra Charges for Requested Pick-up and Drop-off Location
If you want a different pick-up location than the original one, extra charges apply. Here is how we calculate the extra cost for a different pick-up or drop-off location:
- Travel Time Addition:
The time it takes for the yacht to arrive at your requested pick-up location will create an extra cost. For example, your yacht departs from Bebek but you want to board from Uskumru Restaurant. It will take 30 minutes for the yacht to arrive at Uskumru Restaurant. So, the pick-up price will include the 30-minute rate for the yacht you choose. If you also want to end the tour at the same place, the return travel time will double the price.
- Boarding Fees:
Some marinas or piers require a boarding fee. This amount creates an extra charge for the guests. All marinas and most piers used by ferries have a boarding fee.
Yachts have limited availability. Please check with our guest support team if you want to change the pick-up or drop-off location. This option is only available based on the yacht’s availability.
Which is the best company for Bosphorus lunch cruise?
If you’re looking for the best company for a Bosphorus lunch cruise, Lotus Yat is the top choice for a luxury private yacht experience in Istanbul. Skip the noisy public tours and enjoy a peaceful, midday escape on the water—exclusively customized to your preferences.
Why Choose Lotus Yat for a Lunch Cruise?
✔ Choose Your Own Yacht – Pick from a selection of stylish, modern yachts to suit your group size, taste, and needs.
✔ Private & Comfortable – Enjoy a relaxing cruise with just your group—no crowds, no noise, just smooth sailing.
✔ Customizable Lunch Experience – From traditional Turkish meals to gourmet options, personalize your lunch menu, drinks, and even onboard music.
✔ Beautiful Daytime Views – Cruise past iconic sights like Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Maiden’s Tower, and more—perfect for daytime photos.
✔ Flexible & Secure Booking – Reserve with ease and confidence, with a friendly team to assist every step of the way.
✔ Perfect for Casual Celebrations – Ideal for birthdays, family gatherings, team lunches, or simply a sunny day on the Bosphorus.
With Lotus Yat, you can customize every detail—from your lunch menu to the cruise route—to create a truly memorable Bosphorus experience.
✨ Ready to book your private Bosphorus lunch cruise?
Discover the perfect midday getaway with Lotus Yat. 🛥️🍴🌞
What is included in private Bosphorus lunch cruise?
A private Bosphorus lunch cruise with Lotus Yat offers a luxurious, relaxing way to enjoy Istanbul’s breathtaking waterfront in the heart of the day. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a unique midday escape, every detail is thoughtfully tailored to your preferences.
🚤 Standard Inclusions:
Private Luxury Yacht: Enjoy an exclusive cruise with no other guests on board.
Professional Crew: Experienced captain and staff ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.
Scenic Bosphorus Route: Cruise along iconic landmarks like the Maiden’s Tower, Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Rumeli Fortress, and Bosphorus Bridges.
Music System: Play your favorite songs onboard.
Indoor & Outdoor Seating: Cozy lounges and open decks to enjoy the view.
✨ Optional Add-Ons:
Professional Photography & Drone Shooting 📸🎥
Capture unforgettable moments with stunning photos and aerial videos.
Luxury Catering 🍽️
Enjoy a dining experience with delicious Turkish or international meals or snacks.
Live Music 🎻
Add romance or entertainment with a violinist, saxophonist, or other musicians.
Belly Dancing 💃
Enhance your experience with a Turkish cultural performance.
Laser Show 🔥
Personalize your cruise with a customized laser display on the Bosphorus.
Champagne & Drinks 🍾
Celebrate with premium beverages onboard.
Floral Decorations & Setup 🌸
Elegant decor for weddings, proposals, birthdays, or anniversaries.
Guide Services 🗺️
Private tour guide for historical insights about the Bosphorus.
⏳ Duration Options:
2 Hours: Most popular choice for a relaxing cruise.
3+ Hours: Perfect for dining, swimming, or celebrating special events.
Guest Reviews: Unforgettable Lunch Experiences with Lotus Yachts
Reviews from our guests!
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