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The Best Boat Rentals in Istanbul
Browse, book, and get out onto the water with local captains and boat owners.
Suggested Searches
Types of Boats Popular in Istanbul
Yachts
From mid-size to mega yachts, these luxury boats are great for groups and celebrations
$90-$1,360
Tours
Explore local waters with a boat rental dedicated to sightseeing and exploration
$75-$4,185
Sailboats
Set sail with these traditional wind-powered boats
$80-$1,140
Houseboats
All the comforts of home out on the water, for multi-day boat trips
$105-$1,250
Fishing Charters
Let a captain do the driving while you do the fishing
$125-$270
Fishing Boats
Boats outfitted for fishing, from small inshore angling boats to deep-sea yachts
$125-$270
Kayaks
Who says you need a motor to have fun on the water?
$35-$150
Diving
Explore the ocean depths with trained boat operators
$300
Snorkeling
Get off the boat and into the water with offshore snorkeling trips
$45
Top Boat Rental Locations Near Istanbul
Recent Reviews in Istanbul
MB
Marziyeh
The Height of Luxury - Mega Yacht Charter in Istanbul, Turkey
⸻ We hired a boat last night and had an absolutely amazing experience! The boat itself was beautiful and the atmosphere was perfect. The staff were all incredibly kind and professional — they made us feel very welcome and taken care of throughout the trip. One of our friends arrived late, and although the boat couldn’t wait at the port, the crew made the extra effort to circle back and pick her up, which we really appreciated. Their flexibility and kindness did not go unnoticed. We also got to see all the stunning monuments and landmarks along the Bosphorus — the view from the water was absolutely breathtaking. It truly added to the magic of the evening. Thank you for making our evening so special — we would absolutely recommend this service to anyone looking for a memorable and scenic time on the water!
vs
viktoriia
Amazing Yacht Tour Awaits You
We had a great time on the yacht! The crew was very friendly and welcoming. It was so much fun — they even agreed to stop in the sea so we could swim. We ended up swimming together with the captain, which made it even more memorable. We also saw dolphins, and the views of Istanbul from the water were absolutely beautiful. Thank you for such a fun and unforgettable experience!
YA
Yusuf
70ft Luxury Yacht | Enjoy the sea and you can see the historical places!
really enjoyed the yacht tour on the Bosphorus in Istanbul. The yacht was clean and comfortable, and the staff were friendly. The views were amazing — we saw famous places like the Bosphorus Bridge, Dolmabahçe Palace, and Ortaköy Mosque. It was so nice to be on the water and see the city from a different angle. We went at night, which made everything even more beautiful. I would definitely recommend this tour to anyone visiting Istanbul!
LI
LI
Amazing Yacht Tour Awaits You
We booked this private yacht for my friend’s bachelorette weekend, and it was absolutely incredible! A truly unforgettable moment in a stunning setting. The service was top-notch — the boat was clean, spacious, and very comfortable. A huge thank you to our host, who was so welcoming, kind, and attentive from start to finish. He really went above and beyond to make our experience special. I highly recommend it with no hesitation! Perfect for a unique and memorable time with friends.
Dino
Amazing Yacht Tour Awaits You
Cruising with Faruk was outstanding, very friendly people, good food, lovely atmosphere, great boat with insightful guide and outstanding communication. We enjoyed our time and our engagement party.
IP
ILYA
Enjoy the special design inside the BOSPHORUS
Very good host. We were very late to the point of departure and they sent the boat our way, so we could start the trip faster. Excellent service!
How To Book on Getmyboat
Browse
Find the right listing for you and your crew, with options for boat types, group size, captained or self-charter, and lots more.
Inquire & Book
Found one you like? Send a rental inquiry with your preferred trip details, and you’ll receive an offer from your captain to book.
Enjoy
Coordinate a pick-up place and time, meet your boat captain, and get out onto the water!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of boats can I rent in Istanbul?
You can rent a wide range of boats in Istanbul, including private yachts, speedboats, catamarans, motorboats, and traditional Turkish gulets. Most rentals come with a captain and crew for a smooth experience on the Bosphorus.
How much does it cost to rent a boat in Istanbul?
Boat rentals in Istanbul typically start around $100 to $150 per hour for smaller vessels and go up to $300+ per hour for luxury yachts or sunset cruises with onboard services. Half-day and full-day charters are also popular.
Are captained boat rentals available in Istanbul?
Yes, nearly all boat rentals in Istanbul include a captain, and many also come with crew. This is ideal for navigating the Bosphorus Strait and enjoying local hospitality during your tour.
Where are common marinas or departure points in Istanbul?
Popular departure points include Bebek Marina, Kabataş Pier, Eminönü Pier, and Kadıköy Marina. Many private yacht charters also pick up from docks in Karaköy or Üsküdar depending on your itinerary.
What are the best sights to see from the water in Istanbul?
Top sights from a boat include the Bosphorus Bridge, Maiden’s Tower, Dolmabahçe Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Rumeli Fortress, and waterfront Ottoman mansions. Evening tours often include views of the illuminated skyline.
What are popular boat tour options in Istanbul?
Popular tours include Bosphorus sunset cruises, day trips to the Princes’ Islands, romantic dinner cruises, and private sightseeing along the European and Asian shores of the city.
Can I take a boat from the European side to the Asian side?
Yes, many private boat tours and charters cross between the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. It’s a unique way to experience the city’s geography and cultural mix.
Do I need a boating license to rent a boat in Istanbul?
No license is needed when you rent a boat with a captain, which is the most common option in Istanbul. Self-drive options are rare due to local navigation rules and busy waterways.
What is the best time of year for a boat tour in Istanbul?
April through October offers the best weather for boating in Istanbul. Summer is the busiest season, but spring and early fall offer mild temperatures and beautiful views without the crowds.
Can I book a private yacht for a special occasion?
Yes, Istanbul is a top destination for private yacht charters for proposals, anniversaries, birthdays, and corporate events. Many boats offer catering, music systems, and decoration services.
What do you see on the Bosphorus cruise?
It will depend on your selected tours itinerary, but most Bosphorus River cruises leaving from Istanbul will show you some of the top highlights of the city, including the Galata Tower, Dolmabahce Palace, Ciragan Palace, Ortaköy Mosque, Maiden Tower, and Beylerbeyi Palace. Cruise under the Bosphorus Bridge, see the Hagia Sofia, and discover the best sights of the city.
How long is a Bosphorus Cruise Istanbul?
About 2-hours. A typical Bosphorus River sightseeing cruise will range from 2 hours to a half-day, 4-hour tour if you want to include things like lunch or stops along the way. You can choose from various cruise offerings of different time durations to spend more or less time on the Bosphorus River while in Istanbul. Getmyboat has over 180 Bosphorus River cruise and water excursion options, so you can customize your tour to your preferences.
Real reviews from happy Getmyboaters.
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