Bosphorus Swimming Tour, Private Yacht Charter to the Princes’ Islands
Charter a private yacht for an 8-hour swim day around the Princes’ Islands — Istanbul’s most popular swim destination with crystal-clear waters and unforgettable Bosphorus views.
💳 No deposit · pay on the boat
🌍 Snorkel & Towels snorkel & towels included
🌧️ Weather-proof cold drinks onboard
Bosphorus Yacht Rental — Swim Tour to the Princes’ Islands
Charter a private yacht for an 8-hour swim day around the Princes’ Islands — Istanbul’s most popular swim spots, away from city traffic, with expert guides on board.
SWIM STOPS · SNORKEL · SNACKS
Bosphorus Swimming Tour
Private yacht · Two swim stops · Snorkel kit
- 4 hour private boat with two safe swim stops
- Snorkel gear, masks and towels included
- Light snacks and cold drinks onboard
- Pier pickup at Kabatas (on request)
- Free cancellation up to 24h before departure
- No deposit, pay on the boat
Best Months for a Bosphorus Swimming Tour
The Bosphorus is at its calmest and warmest from June to September. Outside summer the boat still sails, but the water temperature drops fast.
Cool & Quiet
Water 16-19°C. Boat runs but swimming is for cold-water swimmers only. Less crowded.
Peak Swim Season
Water 22-25°C, sun strong, two full swim stops, every departure runs. Book early.
Warm & Mellow
Water still 20-22°C in early October. Quieter than August, perfect for relaxed swims.
Off-Season
Water below 14°C. Swim tour pauses. Try our Bosphorus Sunset or Day Cruise instead.
From Travellers Who’ve Swum Between Two Continents
Real reviews from real summers on the Bosphorus.
“Best decision of our Istanbul trip. Two swim stops, cold drinks ready on the boat, snorkel kit waiting for us. The captain knew exactly where the water was calmest.”
“Took our two teens for an afternoon on the water. They were jumping off the boat for hours. Snacks and lemonade kept everyone going. Felt totally safe with the crew.”
“We booked the private option for our anniversary. Champagne stop, just us and the skipper, swimming where Europe meets Asia. Will book again next summer.”
Looking for a Different Time of Day?
Not in season for swimming, or want to see the city from another angle?
Bosphorus Day Cruise
Two-hour scenic Bosphorus and Golden Horn sail with audio guide in four languages.
From €12 · 6 hrs daylightView Day CruiseBosphorus Sunset Cruise
Two hours of golden-hour sailing as the sun drops behind the Old City. Lighter snacks, a soft drink and the sky doing all the work.
From €25 · 2 hrs eveningView Sunset CruiseSWIMMING TOUR
Yacht Charter Swim Tour to the Princes' Islands
The Bosphorus Swimming Tour is a fantastic excursion that gives you the opportunity to cruise along the Bosphorus on a private yacht while enjoying a safe two-stop swim plan from professional snorkel kit and cold drinks, with two safe swim stops and full snorkel kit.
Enjoy an unforgettable afternoon of snorkeling, cold drinks and safety briefing aboard in our Istanbul Bosphorus Swimming Tour. Make the most of your evening in Istanbul with unlimited safe open-water swimming on the Bosphorus Strait and witnessing Istanbul’s beautiful silhouette under the summer sun. You will see some of Istanbul’s top architectural wonders along the strait; illuminated palaces, mosques and Bosphorus bridges. To accompany your expert snorkel guides, full safety briefing, professional skipper and many more will guide your swim stops. Not to forget the superior quality transportation between your hotel and the port with our air-conditioned, comfortable vehicles. In order to mark your Istanbul visit with a memorable experience, join us for this magical experience.
From the moment our driver collects you at your hotel lobby for pier pickup until you are dropped back in the afternoon, every detail of the Bosphorus Swimming Tour Istanbul is taken care of by our own crew, no third-party transfers, no rushed tour-bus feel, no hidden costs onboard. The boat sails every summer day from June through September, weather permitting, with a 4.8 / 5 rating built on more than 920 verified reviews across TripAdvisor, GetYourGuide, Google and Viator. Whether you are travelling as a couple looking for the most refreshing swimming tour Istanbul has to offer, a family planning a relaxed multi-generational night out, or a group of friends who want the best Bosphorus swimming tour with private deck in town, the package below will be tailored to fit your group size, dietary preferences and pickup district before the boat leaves the pier.
An 8-Hour Private Yacht Charter to the Princes’ Islands
Charter a private yacht for a full-day swimming experience. Sail toward the Princes’ Islands, the most popular swim destination near Istanbul, with crystal-clear waters, snorkel kit on board and an experienced crew handling the route.
Bosphorus Swimming Tour Reviews from Real Istanbul Travellers
Verified reviews from guests who took the Bosphorus Swimming Tour with private deck in April 2026, copy-pasted from TripAdvisor, GetYourGuide and Google with permission, names initialled at guest request.
Booked a private yacht for the day and went out toward Büyükada. Two clean swim stops, lunch on board, and the captain knew exactly which coves were sheltered. The way to actually swim near Istanbul.
Eight of us, full-day yacht charter to the Princes’ Islands. Crew handled everything — anchored at Heybeliada for the first swim, served meze on deck, then a second swim closer to Burgazada in calmer water.
We tried the standard option first and ended up upgrading to a private yacht for the day — single best decision of the trip. Six adults, kids loved jumping off the back, and the snorkel gear was actually clean.
Why Choose Our Bosphorus Swimming Tour, 18 Years on the Strait
We are not a reseller. The boats, the kitchen, the drivers and the crew are ours. Booking the best Bosphorus swimming tour direct means you skip three commission layers and pay 18-32% less than aggregator prices.
Operator, not reseller
Owned vessels and crew. No third party between you and the captain.
Free cancellation 24h
Cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund. No fees, no questions.
Weather-proof boats
Heated panoramic salon below, open deck above. Rain or December cold, the day still happens.
Multilingual hosts
English-speaking captain and crew on every charter. Additional languages (Spanish, French, Arabic, Russian, German) available on request.
No deposit, pay later
Reserve with just an email. Pay on the day by card or cash.
4.8/5 across 920+ reviews
Combined rating across TripAdvisor, Google, GetYourGuide, Viator.
Reserve Your Bosphorus Swimming Tour Today
No deposit. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before sail-away. Confirmation by WhatsApp within 30 minutes, usually within 5. The Bosphorus swimming tour sails every night of the year, including New Year and the major Islamic holidays.
Bosphorus Swimming Tour FAQ
Which tour should be preferred for night sightseeing in Istanbul?
The best tour to spend night time in Istanbul is the Bosphorus Swimming Tour. Exploring the city with its night view and participating in the program that reflects the Turkish culture in the tour is very enjoyable and fun.
How long is the Bosphorus Swimming Tour?
Our Bosphorus swimming tour is offered as a full-day private yacht charter, typically lasting around 8 hours. The route takes you toward the Princes’ Islands, where the calmest and clearest waters in Istanbul are found.
How much does the Bosphorus Swimming Tour cost?
Since the swimming tour is organised as a private yacht charter, the price varies by yacht size, group, route and on-board package. Contact us via WhatsApp with your dates and group size for a tailored quote.
What time does the Bosphorus Swimming Tour start?
Departure time is flexible as it is a private charter. Most guests prefer a morning start (around 9:00–10:00) for a full 8-hour day around the Princes’ Islands. We can adjust the schedule to your plans.
What safety equipment is included on the Bosphorus Swimming Tour?
Every yacht charter includes lifejackets for all guests, snorkel kits, easy ladder access in and out of the water, and an experienced crew with maritime safety certification.
What snacks and drinks are included on the Bosphorus Swimming Tour?
Refreshments depend on the yacht package you choose. Standard charters include cold drinks, water and light snacks. Premium packages can include chef-prepared meals, fresh fruit and a full bar.
How far in advance should I book the Bosphorus Swimming Tour?
We recommend booking at least 1–2 weeks in advance during peak summer (June–September). Reservations are made for a full-day yacht charter (~8 hours) and confirmed by WhatsApp within minutes.
What types of drinks are available on the Bosphorus Swimming Tour?
Standard charters include water, soft drinks and Turkish tea or coffee. Premium yacht packages can add wine, beer and a fully stocked bar — let us know your preferences when booking.
Is there private deck service on the Bosphorus Swimming Tour?
Yes. Each Bosphorus swimming tour is a private yacht charter, so the entire deck — both open-air and indoor lounge — is reserved exclusively for your group.
What should I wear and bring for the Bosphorus Swimming Tour?
Swimwear, light summer clothes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) and a towel. The yacht provides shaded areas, but bring an extra layer for the return in case it cools down. We provide snorkel kits and lifejackets on board.
What is the best swimming tour in Istanbul?
The most popular swimming experience in Istanbul is a full-day private yacht charter to the Princes’ Islands. The clearest waters, quieter coves and calmer swim spots are found there, away from the busy Bosphorus traffic.
How is the Bosphorus Swimming Tour different from a daytime cruise?
A daytime Bosphorus cruise is a scenic boat ride along the strait with no swimming. The swimming tour is a private yacht charter that sails toward the Princes’ Islands, with multiple swim and snorkel stops in the cleanest waters.
Where does the Bosphorus Swimming Tour depart from?
Departure pier depends on the chartered yacht. Most yachts leave from a private marina near central Istanbul; the exact pier and arrival instructions are shared by WhatsApp after the reservation is confirmed.
Are all Bosphorus Swimming Tours organised as private yacht charters?
Yes. Every Bosphorus swimming tour we offer is a private yacht charter for your group only — no shared boats. Route, yacht type and on-board package can be customised to your preferences.
What does the safety checklist include?
Every charter is operated under maritime regulations: certified captain, lifejackets for all guests, first-aid kit, emergency communication equipment, and a pre-departure safety briefing.
Is the Bosphorus Swimming Tour suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
Yes. Since each yacht is chartered privately, you can specify dietary preferences when booking — vegetarian, vegan, halal, gluten-free or allergen-free menus can be arranged by the on-board kitchen.
Is the Bosphorus Swimming Tour offered as a private charter?
Yes — every Bosphorus swimming tour is offered as a private yacht charter for your group only. The whole yacht, the crew and the route belong to you for the day.
