Itinerary

Bosphorus Strait: 5 Days of Luxury Yachting

Istanbul to Istanbul

Experience a Turkish escape on a 5-day Ziyana Yachts charter along the Bosphorus and Black Sea — historic palaces, riverside villages, and tranquil islands where Europe meets Asia, all in refined luxury.

Enquire Now

Bosphorus Strait: 5 Days of Luxury Yachting

Chartering the Bosphorus and Black Sea offers a rare and unforgettable alternative to the more typical Turkish yacht destinations. Here, you sail through a centuries-old waterway that divides Europe and Asia, where grand Ottoman yalı mansions, fortified ruins, and ancient fishing villages line both shores. In contrast to Turkey’s southern Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, a yacht journey here reveals a mix of imperial history, rugged nature, and serene village life. With Ziyana’s seamless, bespoke service, you’ll experience this region in 5 days with comfort and style. Anchor in quiet coves, enjoy panoramic views, and savor onboard dining as the shores of Turkey’s most historically resonant waterways unfold around you.

5 Days • 4 Nights

Summary
  • Day 1: Istanbul
  • Day 2: Anadolu Kavağı & Poyrazköy
  • Day 3: Kanlıca, Arnavutköy & Beykoz, Cengelkoy
  • Day 4: Princes’ Islands
  • Day 5: Istanbul

Day 1

Istanbul

Embarkation Point

Begin in Istanbul, the legendary city bridging Europe and Asia. Cruise along the Bosphorus past grand Ottoman palaces, historic waterfront mansions, and iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and Dolmabahçe Palace.

Experience Highlights:

  • Dock at a central Bosphorus marina
  • Sunset drinks onboard with panoramic city views
  • Optional guided tour of Sultanahmet and Grand Bazaar
  • Admire Dolmabahçe Palace and Maiden’s Tower
  • Taste Turkish meze and fresh seafood onboard

Day 2

Anadolu Kavağı & Poyrazköy

11 NM

Sail north along the Bosphorus to the quaint fishing village of Anadolu Kavağı and nearby Poyrazköy at the Black Sea entrance. Explore Yoros Castle, a Byzantine-era fortress guarding the strait, and enjoy the forested hills and unspoiled beaches. Poyrazköy offers a peaceful anchorage and scenic coastal walks.


Experience Highlights:

  • Cruise past opulent waterfront mansions
  • Hike to Yoros Castle for panoramic views
  • Stroll the village and sample local seafood
  • Spot dolphins and seabirds along the Bosphorus

Day 3

Kanlıca, Arnavutköy & Beykoz, Cengelkoy

7 NM

Drop back down the Asian side with gentle stops at small Bosphorus villages (e.g., Kanlıca, Arnavutköy on the European side vs. Beykoz, Çengelköy on the Asian shore). Enjoy calm anchorages, local teahouses, and quieter waterfronts away from the main tourist hubs. Possibility to berth in a small marina or sheltered cove and have a village dinner ashore.

Experience Highlights:

  • Anchor at quiet bays for swimming or paddleboarding
  • Walk along historic yalı-lined waterfronts
  • Sample Kanlıca yogurt and local pastries
  • Sunset cruise past lush hillsides and Bosphorus bridges
  • Optional photography of waterfront architecture

Day 4

Princes’ Islands

12 NM

Sail south into the Sea of Marmara to the Princes’ Islands group. Büyükada (the largest) is car-free and perfect for a bike ride or horse-drawn carriage tour, seaside cafés and beaches. Anchor in a quiet bay or use a marina slip on Büyükada for the night to explore on foot after dinner.

Experience Highlights:

  • Anchor in sheltered bays for swimming and kayaking
  • Explore islands by bicycle or horse-drawn carriage
  • Visit historic churches, monasteries, and wooden mansions
  • Sunset drinks onboard with panoramic island views
  • Enjoy island seafood specialties at waterfront cafés

Day 5

Istanbul

11 NM

On your final day, return to Istanbul via the Bosphorus, giving you a last opportunity to see historic mansions, palaces, and waterfront landscapes from the water. You’ll pass by architectural gems like Beylerbeyi Palace, an Ottoman summer residence built in the 19th century, combining European design with Ottoman elegance. Relax on deck and take in the view, then disembark with a deep appreciation for how this city’s history is woven into its shores.
 

Experience Highlights:

  • Morning swim or deck relaxation
  • Cruise past Beylerbeyi Palace and other Ottoman landmarks
  • Farewell onboard brunch or aperitifs
  • Disembark at Istanbul marina
  • Optional last shopping or sightseeing in Istanbul