Istanbul: Princes’ Islands Cruise with Lunch and Guide

If you’re visiting Istanbul and craving a peaceful escape from the city’s buzz, a Princes’ Islands cruise might just be the relaxing day you need. This tour offers a full-day adventure across the Marmara Sea, taking you to two of the most picturesque islands—Büyükada and Heybeliada—with a tasty lunch and guided commentary.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines scenic sailing with authentic island exploration, all in one package. The chance to breathe in fresh air, stroll along flower-lined streets, and learn about the islands’ history makes it more than just a boat ride. Plus, the onboard lunch and optional leather shopping add a touch of local flavor.

That said, it’s not perfect for everyone. The cruise lasts between 7.5 to 10 hours, so it’s a good idea for those comfortable with a full day on the water and a flexible itinerary. It might be less suitable if you’re prone to seasickness or have mobility issues, since some walking and limited island transportation options are involved.

All in all, if you’re after a relaxed, scenic day with cultural highlights, this tour is a solid pick—especially for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, local food, and a gentle cruise in beautiful surroundings.

Key Points

• Scenic sailing across the Marmara Sea makes for a peaceful start and end to your day.
• Visit two of the most charming Princes’ Islands, Büyükada and Heybeliada, each offering a different vibe.
• Learn from a knowledgeable guide who shares insights into the history and culture of the islands.
• Enjoy a delicious onboard lunch that complements the day’s relaxed pace.
• Free time on the islands allows you to explore at your own leisure—climb hills, relax at seaside cafes, or rent a bike.
• Optional leather shopping in Sultanahmet adds a unique local shopping experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Day in the Life: What to Expect

When you sign up for this cruise, you’re in for a day that balances sightseeing, leisure, and a taste of local life. The tour kicks off with a pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point in Istanbul—making logistics easier. The meeting point at Cibal Port is straightforward, with all details communicated via WhatsApp, ensuring a smooth start.

The Cruise and Views

The boat itself is described as comfortable, with live guidance available in multiple languages—English, Turkish, Russian, and Arabic—which helps when you’re trying to soak in the sights without missing important details. As you leave Istanbul’s skyline behind, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the city, the Bosphorus, and the expansive Marmara Sea.

The sailing is a highlight for many travelers, offering a chance to feel the breeze and relax on deck. This part of the tour sets the tone for the day: a gentle, scenic voyage that eases you into island life.

Büyükada: The Largest and Most Famous

Once you arrive at Büyükada, you’ll find a place that’s famous for its historic wooden mansions, flower-lined streets, and a nostalgic atmosphere. Because no motor vehicles are allowed on the island, it feels remarkably peaceful and fresh. You might choose to climb up to the Aya Yorgi Church for panoramic views, or simply chill at seaside cafés savoring fresh seafood.

Travelers often mention the charm and calmness of Büyükada, making it perfect for a relaxed stroll or a quiet moment by the sea. The reviews note that the island is “very charming and calm,” and that it’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to escape the city’s hustle.

Heybeliada: Nature and Serenity

Next stop is Heybeliada, known for its lush pine forests and tranquil bays. It’s a bit smaller but equally scenic. The Halki Seminary is a standout landmark, offering a glimpse into the island’s religious and educational history. Many guests enjoy exploring on foot or renting a bike to see the quieter corners of the island.

The vibe here is more laid-back compared to Büyükada, with opportunities to relax by the waterfront or wander through peaceful streets. The reviews highlight the “beautiful villages” and “calm” environment as major draws.

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Free Time and Flexibility

One of the best parts of this tour is the free time granted on each island. You can explore at your own pace—climb hills, find a cozy café, or sunbathe on the beach. The flexibility appeals to travelers who prefer to shape their own experience rather than sticking to a tight schedule.

Lunch and Shopping

Throughout the day, a delicious onboard lunch is served, which many reviews describe as a highlight—good food that keeps you energized for more exploring. After the island visits, there’s a stop at a leather shop in Sultanahmet, where you can browse high-quality jackets, bags, and accessories. It’s a nice way to add a shopping element and pick up a souvenir or two.

Practical Details

• Duration: Between 7.5 and 10 hours, so plan ahead for a full day’s commitment.
• Transportation: Optional hotel pickup, but guests without this service need to arrive punctually at the meeting point.
• Language: Live guides speak in several languages, making the experience accessible for many travelers.
• Weather considerations: The boat’s schedule might shift due to weather, so flexibility is key.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for wheelchair users or those prone to seasickness, as it involves boat travel and some walking.

What the Reviews Say

The feedback from travelers is overwhelmingly positive. One reviewer from Poland called the trip “very charming and calm” — a sentiment shared by many, especially those looking for a relaxing day. Francia from Iceland praised the punctual pickup, beautiful villages, and tasty lunch, emphasizing how well-rounded the experience was.

Another guest from the Dominican Republic valued the “lovely cruise with lovely people”, pointing out the friendly atmosphere and memorable moments. And Klaudia from Poland summed it up with a straightforward, “The cruise was funny and always smiling,” highlighting the enjoyable vibe onboard.

A few comments touched on the value—many felt they received a good experience for the price, with the combination of scenic views, cultural insights, and free time making it well worth it.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want a laid-back, scenic day that combines boat cruising with island exploration. It’s ideal if you enjoy light walking, beautiful views, and cultural highlights without strenuous activity. It works well for those interested in local history, photography, or simply relaxing by the sea.

However, it’s not the best choice if you are seasick easily or require accessible transportation, given the boat travel and walking involved. Also, if your schedule is tight or you prefer a shorter activity, this full-day tour might feel a bit long.

The Sum Up

This Princes’ Islands cruise offers a balanced blend of scenic sailing, charming village exploration, and relaxing beach time, all with the convenience of guided commentary and onboard amenities. The chance to escape Istanbul’s urban pace and enjoy tranquil island atmospheres makes it a compelling option for a full-day outing.

You’ll love the breathtaking views, the delicious food, and the opportunity to wander at your own pace on each island. The friendly guide, comfortable boat, and picturesque scenery make it a memorable experience, especially if you’re seeking a peaceful, culturally enriching day.

While it’s not suited for everyone—particularly those sensitive to boat travel—the overall vibe is relaxed and welcoming. If you’re after a gentle, scenic break during your Istanbul visit, this tour can be a real highlight.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy seasons.

Is there a pickup included?
Pickup is optional; if you choose it, details are shared via WhatsApp. If not, you’ll need to arrive at Cibal Port on time.

How long is the tour?
It lasts between 7.5 and 10 hours, depending on weather and operational conditions.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, a camera, and cash. Remember, alcohol and drugs are not allowed.

Is the boat ride comfortable?
Yes, the boat is described as comfortable with live guidance available. However, if you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions.

Can I explore the islands freely?
Absolutely, you get free time on each island to walk, relax, or rent a bike.

Are the island visits suitable for children?
The tour involves some walking and boat travel, so it may be less ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What type of lunch is served?
A delicious onboard lunch is included, though specific menu details aren’t provided.

Can I shop during the tour?
Yes, there’s a stop at a leather shop in Sultanahmet for high-quality leather goods.

What if the weather is bad?
The boat schedule may be adjusted or rerouted due to weather conditions, so be flexible.

This full-day Princes’ Islands cruise offers a peaceful yet culturally rich experience that’s perfect for those wanting to see a different side of Istanbul. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply in search of some sea air, it’s likely to leave you with great memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: