Aft deck of Hermes on the Bosphorus

Home / Cruise vs private yacht

Guide · Choosing

Shared Bosphorus cruise or private yacht?

Istanbul offers everything from large public ferries to private yachts. Here is an honest comparison to help you choose the right way to see the Bosphorus.

€100Per hour, whole yacht
€10Per person per hour, 10 guests
10Guests max
2 hMinimum

Side by side

The main differences

Shared tour boatPrivate yacht
Fixed departure timesYou choose the time
Fixed route and lengthYour route, 2–10 hours
Dozens or hundreds of strangersOnly your group
Central piers onlyBoard at Bebek, Kandilli or another pier
Hard to celebrateDecoration, dinner, photographer

When a shared boat is enough

Choose a shared cruise if…

  • You are travelling alone or as a couple on a tight budget.
  • You just want a quick look at the Bosphorus with no plans on board.
  • You don't mind fixed times and a crowded deck.

When a private yacht is worth it

Choose a private yacht if…

  • You are a group of 4–10. At €100 per hour for the whole yacht, the price per person drops quickly.
  • It's a special occasion. A proposal, a birthday or an anniversary needs privacy.
  • You want the perfect sunset. You decide exactly when to leave. See our sunset cruise.
  • You are travelling with family. No crowds, an indoor saloon, and the crew looks after you.
  • You want to swim. Our day trips to the 3rd Bridge and the Princes' Islands include swim stops when conditions allow.

Full prices are on our price guide.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Is a private yacht much more expensive than a Bosphorus tour boat?

Per group, yes; per person, often not by much. Hermes costs €100 per hour for the whole yacht, so a 2-hour cruise for 10 guests is €20 per person. Prices are in euros and include VAT.

Which is better for families with children?

A private yacht. You control the timing, there are no crowds, and there is an indoor saloon for shade or a break. Children wear life jackets when swimming and are always supervised by an adult.

Can we bring our own food or cake?

You can bring a birthday cake or order one from us. For food, you can add our snacks (€20 per person) or dinner menu (€40 per person); ask on WhatsApp about anything else.

How far in advance should we book?

In summer, evening and sunset slots fill first, so a week or more ahead is safer. Outside summer, a few days is usually enough. The calendar shows live availability.

Live availability

Your group, your time, your Bosphorus.

See free dates on the calendar or ask us anything on WhatsApp.

Book nowMessage us
Message us