Istanbul Shore Excursion - Experience a delightful and relaxing way to see the full depth of Istanbul on a private Bosphorus cruise. Your private licensed guide and driver will meet you at the pier in Istanbul. You'll drive through the commercial area of Istanbul passing Ottoman monuments on your way to the famous Egyptian Spice Bazaar. You'll enjoy a short visit amid the scents of saffron and vanilla before walking to your nearby vessel.

On your private chartered ship you start an unforgettable excursion on the fabled waterway between two continents, Europe and Asia. Soak up the views of Istanbul's historic Ottoman palaces, wooden 19th century waterfront mansions, modern day pleasure palaces and ancient fortresses. You'll enjoy the spectacular scenery and have the perfect opportunity for taking photographs along both shores of this ancient waterway where East meets West.

Your private cruise ends in Sariyer, a charming fishing village located on the Bosphorus near the mouth of the Black Sea approximately 2 hours after you started. There you will rejoin your driver for the return trip to the pier in Istanbul.

Mobility: NO wheelchairs

Tips on visiting Turkey:

Shopping - If additional time is available during your tour, many guides will ask if you are interested in seeing how Turkish carpets are made or if you wish to shop. These free demonstrations are very interesting and quite informative, but they are also a selling opportunity. Decide on your interest and tell your tour guide clearly whether shopping interests you or not. You should never feel obligated to make a purchase on any tour.

Turkish Entry VISA - The Turkish government requires overnight visitors to obtain an entry VISA. However those who are visiting the country by cruise ship are exempt from this entry requirement. No entry Visa is required for a shore excursion, however an entry Visa is required if your cruise starts in Istanbul. Entry Visas must be obtained via an online application and payment system. After submitting your details and payment you must print your e-visa to show Customs and Immigration officials upon arrival. The cost is $20 USD. For more details you can visit www.evisa.gov.tr