Private Sunset Yacht — Up to 8 Guests
Overview
Your own crewed yacht on the Bosphorus
Step aboard your own crewed motor yacht and watch Istanbul change colour as the sun drops behind the Süleymaniye skyline. Departing from Bebek or Kuruçeşme marina, your captain follows the European shore past the Ottoman palaces of Dolmabahçe and Çırağan, crosses under the 15 July Martyrs Bridge, and loops back along the Asian coast — Beylerbeyi Palace, the wooden yalı mansions of Kandilli and Çengelköy glowing in the last light.
The yacht is fully private — only your group on board. A dedicated hostess serves a Turkish meze platter (hummus, haydari, ezme, stuffed vine leaves, seasonal cheese, olives, fresh bread) with chilled soft drinks, Turkish tea and coffee. Bluetooth sound system, sunbeds on the foredeck, shaded saloon and a full bathroom on board.
Between June and September the captain can anchor in a calm bay for a short swim stop. Optional upgrades on request: French or Turkish sparkling wine, premium spirits package, private chef dinner on board, professional photographer, live saxophonist, birthday or proposal styling.
Highlights
- Fully private yacht — only your group on board
- Departure timed 90 minutes before sunset
- English-speaking captain & hostess
- Turkish meze platter, soft drinks, tea & coffee
- Sunbeds on the foredeck, shaded saloon, on-board WC
- Bluetooth sound system — bring your own playlist
- Swim stop in a calm bay (June–September, weather permitting)
- Champagne, private chef and photographer on request
Itinerary
Welcome aboard at the marina
Meet your captain and hostess at Bebek or Kuruçeşme. Safety briefing, welcome drink and route preview.
European shore cruise
Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, Ortaköy Mosque framed by the 15 July Martyrs Bridge.
Crossing to Asia
Pass under the bridge towards Beylerbeyi Palace and the Maiden's Tower for golden-hour photos.
Drift at golden hour
Captain slows the yacht for the colour change over the Old City silhouette. Meze platter served on deck.
Bosphorus by night (or swim stop)
In summer, anchor in a calm bay for a quick swim. Otherwise, cruise back as Istanbul lights up.
Return to marina
Soft music, Turkish tea or coffee, and a relaxed return to the dock.
What's Included
Included
- Private motor yacht charter (3 hours)
- Professional captain and hostess
- Turkish meze platter (vegetarian options included)
- Soft drinks, mineral water, Turkish tea & coffee
- Fuel, marina and harbour fees
- Bluetooth sound system & sunbeds
- Towels for the swim stop (summer)
- Local taxes & VAT
Not Included
- Alcoholic beverages (available as upgrade)
- Hotel transfers (can be arranged on request)
- Private chef dinner (optional upgrade)
- Gratuities for the crew (appreciated, not required)
How it works
Send us your request with your preferred dates and group size. We confirm availability with the operator and send you a written quote covering the exact scope, timing and price. Nothing is booked or charged until you approve it.
Changes & cancellation
Change and cancellation terms for this service are stated in your written quote, because they depend on operator availability and weather or operational conditions on the day.
Pricing Information
This service is priced on request. Your written quote states the final price, what it covers and the currency, before anything is confirmed.
Booking Information
Send your request through the form below or on WhatsApp. A coordinator replies with the written quote; the service is only confirmed once you approve it.
Terms & Conditions
The terms specific to this service are set out in your written quote, alongside HolidayIstan's general Terms & Conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the yacht leave?
Departure is timed to be on the water roughly 90 minutes before sunset. In summer that means around 18:30–19:30, and in spring/autumn around 17:00–18:00. Exact time is confirmed after booking based on the season.
Is the yacht really private?
Yes. The full yacht is reserved for your group only, up to 8 guests. No other passengers join the tour.
Can we bring children?
Children are very welcome. Life jackets in child sizes are on board. There is no extra charge for children under 4.
What if the weather is bad?
If the captain decides the conditions are unsafe, we offer a free reschedule or a full refund. Light rain alone does not usually cancel the tour — the yacht has a covered saloon.
Can we drink alcohol on board?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own, or we can pre-stock champagne, wine and spirits as an upgrade. Just let us know in your inquiry.
Is there a swim stop?
Between June and mid-September, the captain can anchor in a calm bay for a short swim if the sea is comfortable. Towels are provided.
How does payment work?
You pay securely online to confirm the booking. Optional upgrades (chef, champagne, photographer) are settled separately before the tour.
Can you arrange a birthday or proposal?
Yes — flowers, cake, balloons, live saxophonist and a photographer can all be arranged. Mention it in your request and we will send a tailored quote.
