Key Points

Full-day tour lasting 7 to 9 hours from Istanbul, focusing on Heybeliada and Büyükada
Air-conditioned boat with music and entertainment, sailing across the Marmara Sea
Optional lunch, either onboard buffet or at seaside restaurants on Büyükada
Professional English-speaking guide explaining the islands’ history and highlights
Flexible transfer options, with or without hotel pickup, accommodating different needs
Short shopping stop at a high-quality leather store after island visits

You can check availability for your dates here:

Explore the Princes Islands by Comfortable Air-Conditioned Boat

This full-day tour departs from Istanbul and takes you on a scenic cruise across the Marmara Sea aboard a specialized air-conditioned boat. The vessel features music, entertainment, and stunning sea views, making the journey just as enjoyable as the destinations themselves. The tour lasts between 7 and 9 hours, providing plenty of time to explore at a relaxed pace.

The departure time is early in the morning, and it’s important to arrive at the meeting point no later than 09:20. The boat’s name and pictures are shared via WhatsApp or email, ensuring clarity for travelers. This setup allows travelers to enjoy a comfortable cruise with temperature control and entertainment for a lively start.

While in Istanbul, here are other experiences we've covered

Discover Heybeliada’s Charming Streets and Pine Trees

The first stop is Heybeliada, known for its peaceful streets lined with pine trees and historic buildings. During the stop, visitors can take a leisurely walk along the charming pathways or enjoy a coffee at a seaside cafe. The island offers a tranquil atmosphere away from the bustling city, making it ideal for relaxing strolls or photography.

Along With the natural beauty, Heybeliada provides a glimpse into its past, with historical sites that your guide explains in detail. Travelers are free to explore at their own pace, whether they wish to relax or take photos of the serene coastal scenery.

Largest of the Islands: Büyükada’s Elegant Mansions and Seaside Sights

The tour’s highlight is Büyükada, the biggest and most famous of the Princes Islands. Here, visitors can admire grand historic mansions and beautiful seaside vistas. The guide shares stories about the adorned villas and the history behind them, adding depth to the visit.

On Büyükada, there’s the option to rent bikes, take a walk through the quaint streets, or enjoy a lunch at a seaside restaurant. Visitors who choose the with-meal option will enjoy a buffet lunch on board, while others can dine at elegant local restaurants. The island’s peaceful atmosphere and historic charm make it a perfect spot for photos and relaxation.

Flexible Lunch Options and Dining Experiences

The tour offers two lunch choices to suit different preferences. The onboard open buffet provides a variety of dishes, allowing guests to enjoy their meal while still taking in views from the boat. Alternatively, guests can choose to dine at seaside restaurants on Büyükada, experiencing local cuisine in an authentic setting.

For those opting without a meal, the free time on Büyükada includes lunch at popular restaurants or additional exploration, giving the flexibility to customize the day. Vegetarian options are available upon request, ensuring dietary preferences are accommodated.

More Great Tours Nearby

Post-Tour Shopping at a Leather Store

After exploring Büyükada, the tour includes a short visit to a high-quality leather store. This stop provides an opportunity for shopping for local leather goods, which can be a nice souvenir or gift. The visit is brief but offers a chance to experience a local craft and perhaps find a special item.

While in Istanbul, here are other experiences we've covered

Convenient Transfer Options for a Hassle-Free Day

Travelers can select between tour options with or without hotel transfers. The transfer service is designed to be convenient, although traffic in Istanbul may cause delays of up to 45 minutes. The pickup points are near the hotel, but in case of limited access, the tour provider informs travelers of the nearest available pickup.

For travelers not choosing the inclusive transfer, meeting at the designated meeting point at coordinates 41.02498245239258, 28.959871292114258 is straightforward. The boat departs promptly at 09:20, emphasizing the importance of punctuality.

What You Need to Bring and What to Avoid

To make the most of the tour, travelers should bring swimwear, a camera for photos, and sunscreen for protection during outdoor stops. It’s important to note that alcohol and drugs are not allowed on the tour, maintaining a respectful environment onboard and on the islands.

Since the tour involves walking and outdoor exploration, it may not be suitable for people with back problems or mobility issues. Also, those prone to seasickness may want to consider this before booking. The physical requirements are minimal, but comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Weather Considerations and Flexibility in Itinerary

The order of island visits might change depending on weather or port conditions. This flexibility helps ensure safety and a smooth experience, although it may affect the sequence of stops. Travelers should be prepared for possible changes but can trust that the core experience—visiting Heybeliada and Büyükada—remains intact.

Guided Experience with Multilingual Support

The tour is led by a professional English-speaking guide, with additional language options including Arabic, Russian, and Turkish. The guide provides narration about the islands’ history and highlights, enriching the visit with interesting facts and stories.

Booking Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later, allowing for full flexibility in travel planning. Cancelations are free up to 24 hours before departure, providing peace of mind in case plans change unexpectedly.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

This tour emphasizes scenic sailing aboard a specialized boat with entertainment features and multiple dining options. The combination of relaxing boat cruise, island exploration, and shopping creates a well-rounded day. The option for hotel pickup or meeting at the port adds convenience, appealing to a variety of travelers.

Final Thoughts on the Princes Islands Tour

The Istanbul Princes Islands Tour with lunch and transfer options offers a balanced mix of relaxation, scenic views, and cultural discovery. The air-conditioned boat with entertainment keeps the journey lively, while the guided commentary gives context to the islands’ history.

The flexibility in dining and transfer options ensures the tour suits different preferences. While the itinerary may shift due to weather, the overall experience remains engaging and enjoyable for those interested in a day of sea, sun, and history.

This tour is ideal for those seeking a comfortable, informative day trip that includes cruise comfort, island charm, and shopping opportunities in a single package. It’s a practical choice for travelers who value ease and flexibility in exploring Istanbul’s nearby islands.

✨ Book This Experience

Istanbul: Prince islands Tour w/ Lunch and transfer options

4.3

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts between 7 and 9 hours depending on conditions and pace.

What is included in the meal options?
Guests can choose a buffet lunch on board or dine at seaside restaurants on Büyükada. Vegetarian options are available upon request.

Are transfers included?
Transfers are optional; you can select a package with or without hotel pickup. The transfer process may experience delays of up to 45 minutes.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a camera, and sunscreen for outdoor activities.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it is not suitable for people with back problems or mobility impairments.

Can I enjoy free time on Büyükada?
Yes, guests with the without meal option can explore Büyükada freely and dine at local restaurants during the free time.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is led by a live guide speaking English, with options for Arabic, Russian, and Turkish.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The order of island visits may change depending on weather or port conditions, but the core experience remains.

Is the tour refundable?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at coordinates 41.02498245239258, 28.959871292114258, and the boat is shared via WhatsApp or email prior to departure.