What to bring
A Bosphorus cruise does not need much packing, but a few items make the day easier, and one of them you must not forget. Here is what to bring, what to wear for the water, and what you can leave at your hotel.
Must bring
- Your e-ticket: on your phone or printed, ready to show at check-in
- Your passport or ID: bring it to be safe. There can be a passport or ID check at the pier on Bosphorus cruises, so foreign visitors are best bringing their original passport rather than a copy or photo, and Turkish citizens a valid photo ID
Dress for the water
- A light jacket or layer: the single most useful item, as it is breezy on the water even on a warm summer evening
- Comfortable shoes: flat or low shoes for the pier and the deck
- A scarf or hat: handy for the sun in the day or the wind in the evening
For what to wear by season and by cruise type, see what to wear on board.
Sun protection (April to October)
- Sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher: the water reflects the sun, so you can burn even on a cloudy day
- Sunglasses: for the glare off the water on daytime and sunset cruises
Handy to have
- A charged phone or camera: you will want photos of the palaces, the bridges, and the skyline
- A small bag or crossbody: keeps your things secure while you move around the deck
- Some cash: useful for tips or anything bought on board, as some onboard sales are cash only
- A water bottle: helpful on summer daytime cruises
- Motion-sickness tablets: the Bosphorus is usually calm, but bring them if you are prone to seasickness
What you do not need to bring
On most cruises you do not need to bring food or drinks, as these are provided according to your package. Leave large luggage at your hotel, since space on board is limited. To check what your package covers, see what is included in the price.
For the meeting point and timing, see where to meet and board and when to arrive.