If you're planning to rent a yacht on the Bosphorus, your first question will likely be: Where do we board—and how far can we go? In this guide, we break down all the departure points and route options.
When people think of a yacht tour on the Bosphorus, they usually picture Ortaköy Mosque, the Bosphorus Bridge, and elegant waterfront mansions.
But when it comes to planning, questions like "Where do we board?" and "How far does the route go?" often come up.
In this guide, we'll walk you through all the main departure points on both the European and Asian sides, explain how the routes progress, and help you choose the best itinerary for your rental time.
Departure Points on the European Side
The most iconic and lively coastline stretches along the European shore of Istanbul.
Here are the most frequently used departure points with Boğaz Çocuğu:
✅ Bebek
Close to the city center and offering gorgeous views, Bebek is a popular spot.
From here, yachts usually head north toward Rumeli Fortress. It's a perfect choice for morning breakfast tours.
✅ Kuruçeşme
Located between Ortaköy and Arnavutköy, Kuruçeşme is easily accessible and offers panoramic scenery.
Yachts departing from here can complete a scenic loop between the two Bosphorus bridges.
✅ Arnavutköy
Known for its historic wooden houses and charming waterfront streets, Arnavutköy is ideal for afternoon or sunset cruises.
It's especially popular with guests planning photo shoots or romantic tours.
Departure Points on the Asian Side
Though quieter and less crowded, the Asian shore of Istanbul is equally rich in charm and beauty. Top boarding locations include:
✅ Kandilli
Directly facing the Bosphorus Bridge, Kandilli allows for fast access toward Anadolu Hisarı and Kanlıca.
It's a peaceful starting point, ideal for early morning tours.
✅ Kuleli
Departing near the historic Kuleli Military High School creates a truly memorable scene.
Tours from here can sail either north or south depending on guest preferences.
Note: Both Kandilli and Kuleli are available as free boarding points with no extra fee.
Where Do the Routes Go? Suggested Itineraries by Duration
The route you follow depends directly on how long you rent the yacht. Even a 2-hour cruise can cover a scenic stretch:
- 2-hour tour: From your departure point, you'll sail between the Bosphorus Bridge and the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge
- 3–4 hour tour: Full round-trip between the two bridges + a loop around the Maiden's Tower
- Longer tours: Optional anchoring at Beykoz Bay for a break or rest upon request
Yachts are always in motion—every tour includes an active cruise along the Bosphorus.
Are Routes Fixed or Flexible?
At Boğaz Çocuğu, routes are customized depending on weather, duration, and guest preferences.
For example, a romantic evening cruise can focus on Ortaköy's sparkling skyline, while a breakfast tour may follow a quieter route.
While we offer suggested itineraries, we always prioritize your vision for the tour.
📍 To plan your own Bosphorus cruise and choose the most convenient departure point and scenic route, visit our Bosphorus yacht rental page for full details.