Istanbul Prince Island Cruise with Lunch & Free Time

Discover the Charm of Istanbul’s Princes Islands on a Full-Day Cruise

The Istanbul Prince Island Cruise with Lunch & Free Time offers a relaxing way to explore Büyükada, Heybeliada, and Burgazada. Priced affordably, this 8-hour journey departs from Cibaliport Pier and includes round-trip boat transportation, a delicious lunch served on board, and free time on each island. Perfect for those seeking a break from city life, this tour combines scenic sea views, casual island exploration, and a laid-back atmosphere.

While the tour does not include a guided visit on the islands, onboard announcements in Turkish and English keep you informed, and the lunch with a sea view adds a special touch. The tour suits travelers who enjoy independent exploration, scenic boat rides, and a peaceful day among the islands. A notable limitation is that no guided tours are offered on the islands, so visitors should be prepared to explore on their own.

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Key Points

• Full-day trip from Istanbul to three Princes Islands: Büyükada, Heybeliada, and Burgazada
• 8-hour duration, starting at 10:00 and ending around 17:00
• Round-trip boat transfer included, with free time on each island
• Lunch served on board, offering scenic sea views
• No guided tours on the islands, independent exploration encouraged
• Optional hotel transfer available from key central locations in Istanbul

Convenient Departure from Cibaliport Pier

The tour starts promptly at 10:00 from Cibaliport Pier, where guests find the TROYS IST staff and show their tickets. The location’s GPS coordinates are 41.0246, 28.9603, with ticketing details provided 24 hours in advance. Travelers should arrive on time, as this service is primarily a ferry transfer, with no additional transfer included in the base price. The pier is easy to access if staying in central Istanbul, with optional hotel pickup from popular districts like Sultanahmet, Sirkeci, and Taksim.

Scenic Boat Ride Across the Sea of Marmara

The core of this experience is a beautiful boat ride across the Sea of Marmara. The vessel provides announcements in Turkish and English, keeping everyone informed about the route and stops. Guests enjoy stunning sea views as they glide towards the islands, making this a peaceful and picturesque journey.

The boat type might change due to weather conditions or operational needs, but onboard facilities and the audio guide in multiple languages ensure a comfortable experience. This ride offers a great chance to unwind, take photos, and enjoy the fresh sea breeze.

Free Time on Büyükada for Biking and Exploring

Büyükada, the largest of the Princes Islands, is famous for its pine forests and historic mansions. The tour provides free time to wander at your own pace, with the option to rent bikes or stroll through the peaceful streets. The island’s relaxed ambiance makes it ideal for leisurely exploration, and the absence of guided tours allows visitors to set their own rhythm.

Access to local cafes and shops adds to the charm, though no guided commentary is included on this stop. Visitors should plan ahead if they want to rent bikes or visit specific sites, as this exploration is independent.

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Discovering Heybeliada’s Pine Forests and Quiet Corners

Heybeliada is known for its pine forests and tranquil atmosphere. During the free exploration window, visitors can enjoy nature walks or relax in quiet spots away from the busy city. The lack of a guided tour means you can choose to hike or find a cozy café overlooking the water.

This island provides a peaceful retreat, perfect for those wanting to connect with nature. The timing on this stop allows for a relaxed pace, but travelers should be aware that no guided commentary is available on-site.

Burgazada’s Beaches and Laid-Back Vibe

Burgazada offers a quieter alternative with calm beaches and a laid-back atmosphere. During the free time, visitors might choose to relax on the beaches or explore the charming streets at their own pace. This stop is ideal for a gentle stroll or soaking up the sun, making it perfect for those seeking a more relaxed experience.

Since no guided tour is provided on Burgazada, you’ll have the freedom to decide how to spend your time—whether swimming, relaxing, or exploring local shops.

Lunch with a Sea View on the Boat

A highlight of this tour is the lunch served on board, which features local cuisine and offers spectacular sea views. The meal is included in the tour price, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery while dining. Be aware that drinks are extra, so consider bringing some cash or purchasing beverages on the boat.

The sea-facing dining experience adds a special touch to the day, allowing you to relax and appreciate the surroundings while enjoying a well-prepared meal.

Practical Details: Meeting Points, Timing, and What to Bring

The meeting point is clearly designated at Cibaliport Pier, with ticket verification handled on-site. Guests should arrive on time to ensure smooth boarding, as the tour is dependent on a timely departure. The tour schedule runs from 10:00 to 17:00, giving ample time for island exploration and relaxation.

Travelers are advised to bring sunglasses, hats, cameras, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes to stay comfortable during the day. The boating conditions can change, so dressing appropriately for weather is wise. Optional hotel transfers are available from key districts, making it easier to join the tour without stress.

Limited Guidance and Independent Exploration

While onboard announcements in multiple languages provide general information, there is no guided tour on the islands. Visitors should be prepared to explore independently, which is perfect for those who enjoy setting their own pace. After the boat ride, a visit to a leather shop with a fashion show is included before returning to Istanbul.

This focus on independent exploration means the experience works best for travelers comfortable with self-guided touring and who value flexible timing.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Options

This full-day boat cruise stands out for its combination of scenic boat rides, free island exploration, and included lunch. Unlike guided tours that focus on structured visits, this experience favors independent discovery. Several similar options are available, some offering guided walks or private boat experiences.

However, the affordable price point, flexible schedule, and multi-language announcements make this tour a popular choice for those seeking a relaxed, casual day out. The lack of guided on-island tours may be a drawback for travelers wanting detailed historical commentary but is ideal for visitors who prefer a more laid-back approach.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience Most?

This tour appeals most to independent explorers who enjoy scenic boat rides and leisurely island visits. It’s great for families, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate flexibility and stunning sea views. The casual pace, combined with free time on each island, suits those looking for a gentle escape from the city.

Travelers needing assistance with accessibility or guided tours should note that wheelchair users are not suitable for this experience, and the lack of guided tours might not satisfy those seeking in-depth historical insights.

Final Thoughts on the Istanbul Prince Island Cruise

The Istanbul Prince Island Cruise with Lunch & Free Time offers a straightforward, relaxing way to enjoy three of the city’s most beloved islands. The 8-hour duration balances scenic boat time with ample opportunities for independent exploration on Büyükada, Heybeliada, and Burgazada. The lunch on board, combined with stunning sea views, adds value to this low-key experience.

While it does not include guided tours on the islands, the onboard announcements and flexible schedule make it suitable for travelers comfortable with self-guided adventures. The limited physical requirements and optional transfers make it accessible and convenient for many.

This tour delivers a peaceful, scenic day that captures the charm of Istanbul’s Princes Islands without the complexity of guided sightseeing. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a laid-back, picturesque escape with the freedom to explore at their own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include guided tours on the islands?
No, there are no guided tours on the islands. Guests explore independently during free time.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes round-trip boat transportation, lunch on board, and announcements onboard in Turkish and English. Optional transfers from central Istanbul are available.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, cameras, and comfortable clothes. Drinks are at an extra cost, so consider bringing some cash.

Are there any physical restrictions?
Wheelchair users are not suitable for this tour due to the nature of the ferry and island exploration.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full-day experience lasts approximately 8 hours, from 10:00 to 17:00.

Can I customize the timing at each island?
The tour provides free time on each island, but the schedule is fixed, and all guests return together by 17:00.

Is hotel transfer included?
Transfer is optional and can be booked from central districts in Istanbul, including Sultanahmet, Taksim, and Laleli.

What about the weather?
Boat types and timing may change due to weather conditions, but onboard facilities and information remain available in multiple languages.

How do I find the meeting point?
At Cibaliport Pier, look for TROYS IST staff and show your ticket. The GPS coordinates are 41.0246, 28.9603.

What is the main appeal of this tour?
It’s perfect for relaxing, enjoying sea views, and exploring islands at your own pace without guided tours, making it ideal for travelers who value flexibility and scenic beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby