The Turkish show & entertainment

A dinner cruise includes a live Turkish night show, which is a big part of the evening. It runs after dinner is served, so the first part of the night is for the meal and the views, and the later part is for the show and dancing. Here is what the program usually includes.

The performances

• Turkish folk dances: regional dances in traditional costume, such as the Aegean Zeybek and the Anatolian Halay
• Belly dance (oryantal): the main act of the night, and on many boats the dancer invites a few guests to join
• A whirling performance: inspired by the Mevlevi tradition, presented as a stage show rather than a religious ceremony
• Other cultural acts: such as a Caucasian (Kafkas) dance or a henna ceremony, depending on the boat
• Live music and a DJ: between the acts, with a dance floor opening up later in the evening

The lineup varies by boat

The exact program changes by boat, season, and date, and not every boat includes every act. If a particular performance matters to you, such as the whirling show, confirm it on the listing or with us before you book.

Which cruises have a show

The live show is part of dinner cruises. Sightseeing and sunset cruises focus on the views, with a guide rather than a stage show. To compare the cruise types, see choosing the right cruise, and for the meal that comes with the show, see food and drinks on board.