Istanbul Princes Islands Boat Trip with Lunch

Exploring the Princes Islands from Istanbul: A Practical Guide to the Boat Trip with Lunch

If you’re looking for a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul, this Princes Islands boat trip might be just what you need. It offers a chance to see some of the most picturesque parts of the Sea of Marmara, with the bonus of wandering through traffic-free islands, enjoying traditional Ottoman-style houses, and savoring fresh seafood. This tour is ideal for travelers craving a laid-back day with scenic views and authentic island charm, all bundled into a reasonably priced package.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it combines stunning water vistas with cultural sightseeing—all in one day. The harbor views of iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque from the water are unforgettable, and the horse-drawn carriage tour on Buyukada adds a nostalgic touch. Plus, the included lunch at a fish restaurant really hits the spot after a morning of exploring.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour can get crowded and busy, especially on popular days or in peak season, which might make some parts less tranquil than expected. The boat can fill up, and island visits may be somewhat rushed. Still, for those who enjoy lively group atmospheres and the chance to see several islands in one day, this is a solid choice.

This tour suits those who want a convenient, guided day trip that covers the highlights of the Princes Islands, with minimal hassle. It’s perfect for first-timers to Istanbul or those looking to combine sightseeing with some leisurely beach or shopping time.

Key Points

• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off (on the European side), making logistics easier.
• Offers scenic water views of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks from the boat, providing a different perspective.
• Visits four traffic-free islands, each with its unique sights and atmosphere, especially Buyukada’s Ottoman houses and villas.
• On-site horse-drawn carriage tour on Buyukada adds a nostalgic and charming experience.
• Lunch at a fish restaurant on the island provides fresh, local seafood as a highlight.
• Affordable price point at around $46 for an 8.5-hour day—good value when factoring in transport, guides, and lunch.

In-Depth Review of the Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off early, with pickup available from selected hotels on the European side of Istanbul. Meeting at Kadir Has University in Cibali at 9:30 am, you’ll board a ferry that will take you across the Sea of Marmara. The entire day lasts about 8 hours and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

While the tour’s length seems long, much of that is on the water— which is part of the charm. The ferry ride itself offers fantastic views of Istanbul’s skyline, including Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and the Blue Mosque, seen from a different angle that’s often more impressive than from land.

Island Stops and Activities

The itinerary includes stops at four islands, with Buyukada being the main highlight. The tour allocates about 2 hours here, giving you enough time to explore, take pictures, and enjoy a leisurely lunch. The visit to Buyukada’s Ottoman villas is a real treat—these grand summer houses evoke a bygone era of Ottoman leisure. The horse-drawn carriage ride is a nostalgic way to see the island, and a good opportunity to learn about its history from your guide.

One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the guide shared general information about the island’s villas and history,” showing that the guide adds value to the visit. Others appreciated the chance to rent bikes or walk around after lunch, though bike rentals are not included in the package.

Heybeliada, another island on the route, gets about an hour of your time. Known for its Greek Orthodox monastery and charming streets, it’s a quieter, more relaxed spot. The tour includes admission to Heybeliada, making it easy to enjoy without extra planning.

The first island stop, which some reviews say was less worthwhile—due to limited sights or crowds—still offers a taste of island life. As one traveler noted, “Not much to see at the first island, but it was nice to get off the boat and stretch.”

Lunch and Free Time

Lunch is served onboard or at a fish restaurant on Buyukada. The buffet offers fresh seafood, a highlight for many. After eating, there’s free time to shop, stroll, or relax on the beach. Some travelers mentioned that the island can get crowded, especially during peak season, which might diminish the peaceful vibe you’re after.

The Scenic Boat Ride

The boat itself isn’t just transportation—it’s an experience. The views of Istanbul’s skyline are breathtaking, especially when passing by the grand palaces and mosques from the water. Several reviews praised the “beautiful scenery” and “amazing water views,” highlighting how the boat adds a visual feast to the day.

Guidance and Overall Value

The onboard guide is a plus, providing insights into each island’s history and notable sights. Multiple reviewers highlighted the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, which enhances the overall experience.

Considering the price—about $46—you’re getting a comprehensive day trip that covers transport, guided island visits, admission fees, and lunch. While some reviews noted crowding and logistical hiccups, many found the experience to be good value for money, especially when compared with the cost of organizing similar activities independently.

What Could Be Better?

While most reviews are positive, a few travelers found the boat overcrowded or the journey less tranquil than anticipated. One reviewer mentioned, “The boat was very crowded, and seats weren’t comfortable,” which could be a concern for those seeking peace and quiet. Also, some felt the first island stop was unnecessary if you’re after a more relaxing day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for families, first-time visitors to Istanbul, and anyone interested in seeing the islands without the hassle of planning. It offers a good balance of sightseeing, relaxing, and culture. If you enjoy boat rides, scenic water views, and quaint island towns, you’ll find plenty to enjoy.

However, those seeking an intimate, serene experience might find the crowds and busy schedule a bit overwhelming. If you prefer quiet, off-the-beaten-path experiences, consider visiting the islands independently or at a different time of year.

Final Thoughts

This Princes Islands boat trip manages to deliver a fun, scenic, and culturally interesting day at a reasonable price. The combination of stunning vistas, historic island homes, and a delicious seafood lunch makes it a popular choice for travelers craving a break from city touring.

The inclusion of hotel pickup, guided commentary, and island admission fees simplifies the day, making it accessible even for first-timers. While it’s true that the boat can get crowded, and some stops might be rushed, the overall experience heavily leans toward a memorable, picturesque escape.

If you’re looking for a way to see Istanbul from the water, enjoy a taste of island life, and relax with good food and scenic views, this tour offers solid value and an enjoyable adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are available for hotels on the European side of Istanbul and in the city center, making the start and end of your day more convenient.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, including ferry rides, island visits, and lunch.

What can I do during the free time on Buyukada?
You can walk or rent bikes to explore the island, shop for souvenirs, relax on the beach, or enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local fish restaurant.

Are all island visits included?
Yes, the tour includes visits to four islands—Buyukada, Heybeliada, and others along the route—with some islands offering optional activities like horse-drawn carriage rides.

What is the quality of the lunch?
Most reviews mention the seafood buffet on the boat or at the restaurant as being delicious and satisfying after a morning of sightseeing.

Can I customize my experience?
While the tour is guided and scheduled, you are free to explore the islands during your free time, renting bikes or walking around at your own pace.

This Princes Islands boat trip offers a delightful mix of scenic water vistas, historical charm, and relaxed island atmosphere—a practical way to enjoy Istanbul’s surroundings without overcomplicating your day.