Istanbul Princes Islands Boat Trip with Lunch

The Istanbul Princes Islands Boat Trip with Lunch offers an accessible and scenic way to escape the bustling city of Istanbul for a full day. Priced at $46, this 8.5-hour excursion departs from the European side, with hotel pickup and drop-off included for convenience. The tour features a ferry cruise across the Sea of Marmara, passing iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque from the water, providing a different perspective of these famous sites. This tour is particularly suited for travelers looking for a relaxed yet comprehensive day out, combining sightseeing, island exploration, and local cuisine, though it does have some considerations related to crowding and organization.

While the experience includes stops at Buyukada and Heybeliada, the highlight is Buyukada, known as the summer resort island with Ottoman-era villas and horse-drawn carriage rides. The tour also offers a buffet lunch at a fish restaurant on the island, along with free time to stroll, shop, or unwind on the beach. The small-group setting aims to create a more intimate atmosphere, although reviews indicate that some days might feel crowded or disorganized. This outing provides a practical way to see the Princes’ Islands while enjoying scenic views and local hospitality.

Key Points

• Full-day excursion from Istanbul with 8.5 hours duration
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from the European side
• Boat cruise offers views of Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque from the water
• Stops at Buyukada and Heybeliada, with the main focus on Buyukada’s Ottoman villas and horse-drawn carriage tour
• Lunch at a fish restaurant with free time for shopping, relaxing, or beach visits
• Tour guide on board helps with general information, but some reviews mention organizational issues

Departure and Meeting Points on the European Side

The tour begins at Kadir Has University in Cibali, Fatih, with a start time at 9:30 am. It includes pickup and drop-off at selected hotels around this area, ensuring a smooth start to the day. The return is to the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward for travelers staying nearby.

The Ferry Cruise and Water Views

The ferry is the main highlight, providing sweeping views of Istanbul’s skyline and key landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. The boat trip offers a relaxing ride across the Sea of Marmara, giving passengers a chance to appreciate the city from a different angle. Passengers can see the Bosphorus canal from the boat, adding to the scenic experience.

Exploring Buyukada: The Main Stop

Buyukada is the most prominent stop, where visitors spend approximately 2 hours. This island is famous for its Ottoman villas and summer houses, which the guide explains during the visit. The island’s horse-drawn carriage tour is a traditional way to explore the area, allowing visitors to see the grand villas and learn about Buyukada’s history. Many choose to rent bikes or walk around, but the main activity is the carriage ride and lunch.

Lunch and Free Time on Buyukada

A buffet lunch is included in the tour, served at a local fish restaurant on the island. The meal is generally considered good value, offering a chance to enjoy fresh seafood and local flavors. Afterward, travelers have free time to shop, relax on the beaches, or stroll through the charming streets, which are free of car traffic. Some reviews note that the island can become crowded, especially during peak seasons.

Visiting Heybeliada: A Quieter Alternative

Heybeliada offers a one-hour stop where visitors can explore more of the Princes’ Islands. The island features Ottoman architecture and scenic areas, though it tends to be less crowded than Buyukada. The tour includes admission fees for this stop, giving a brief but scenic glimpse of this quieter island. Visitors often appreciate the opportunity to see a different part of the archipelago.

Additional Stops and Views from the Boat

Throughout the tour, travelers get to admire the Bosphorus canal and the Istanbul skyline from the water. The boat provides excellent photo opportunities of the city’s prominent mosques and palaces. The departure port is also visible from the boat, providing context for the city’s layout.

Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

This all-in-one package includes hotel pickup (if selected), the boat trip, entrance fees to the islands, a tour guide on board, and a buffet lunch. However, it does not cover drinks, bike rentals, or electric buggy tickets, which are available to purchase separately. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation received at booking and most travelers able to participate.

Reviews and Common Feedback

The overall rating of 3.5 out of 5 reflects mixed experiences. Many praise the professional guides, beautiful scenery, and good value. A positive review highlights the excellent tour and the delicious lunch. Conversely, some reviews mention organizational issues, with complaints about crowding and long waiting times during transfer and boarding. It’s important to be prepared for potential crowds and busyness on certain days.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is ideal for those wanting a full-day escape to the Princes’ Islands without the hassle of organizing transportation. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers interested in scenic views, island culture, and seafood. It’s less suited for travelers seeking private or less crowded experiences, especially during peak seasons when the islands can be busy.

The Sum Up: A Scenic and Practical Day Out

The Istanbul Princes Islands Boat Trip with Lunch offers a cost-effective way to explore the archipelago with scenic water views, historic island stops, and local cuisine. The inclusion of hotel pickup, guided commentary, and a lunch makes it a convenient option for visitors wanting an overview of the Princes’ Islands.

While some reviews point out organizational challenges or crowding, the main attractions—the Ottoman villas, horse-drawn carriage ride, and beachside free time—are well appreciated. This tour is likely to be most enjoyable for those seeking a relaxed, scenic day with a touch of local culture, especially if they are comfortable with some level of crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you select this option, covering the European side and city center.

What landmarks can I see from the boat?
You see Istanbul’s skyline, including Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, from the water during the cruise.

How long do I stay on each island?
You spend about 2 hours on Buyukada and 1 hour on Heybeliada.

What activities are available on Buyukada?
Mainly horse-drawn carriage tours, exploring Ottoman villas, and lunch at a fish restaurant. Free time for shopping or relaxing on the beach is also included.

Are drinks included with the lunch?
No, drinks are not included and must be purchased separately.

Can I rent bikes or electric buggies?
Bike rentals are available but not included; electric buggy tickets can be purchased during the tour.

What are the main negatives mentioned in reviews?
Some reviews mention crowding, long waits, and organizational issues, especially during busy days.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Most activities involve walking or riding in horse-drawn carriages, so it may be suitable for those with limited mobility, but consider the crowds and walking involved.

How do I cancel this tour?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by All Tours Istanbul-Azure.