Istanbul 3 Island Cruise with Lunch & Free Time

Exploring Istanbul’s Princes Islands: A Full-Day Boat Tour with Lunch and Free Time

When you think about Istanbul, the bustling streets, historic sites, and vibrant markets often come to mind. But just a short ferry ride away lie the Princes Islands, a peaceful retreat that offers a different perspective — calm, charming, and full of natural beauty. This full-day boat tour from Istanbul takes you on a scenic journey to Büyükada, Heybeliada, and Burgazada, with lunch served on board and ample free time on each island to explore at your own pace. It’s a relaxed way to see a slice of the Sea of Marmara, away from the city’s hustle.

We love how this tour combines stunning sea views, authentic island atmospheres, and a cost-effective price—just $28 per person. The inclusion of round-trip ferry transfers means you won’t have to worry about transportation logistics, making it simple and straightforward. Plus, the lunch served onboard is a nice touch, giving you a meal with a view without breaking the bank.

One thing to consider is that guiding on the islands is limited to announcements in Turkish and English on the boat, with no guided tours on land. If you’re looking for in-depth historical commentary or guided walks, this might not satisfy all your curiosity, but it’s perfect if you enjoy exploring independently. This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate free time, scenic journeys, and a relaxed pace, especially those comfortable exploring without a dedicated guide on each island.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Includes ferry transfers, lunch, and free time on islands.
• Scenic views: Enjoy Istanbul’s skyline, Bosphorus, and the islands from the water.
• Flexible exploration: Get to explore each island independently at your own pace.
• Affordable price: At $28, it offers good value for a full day’s adventure.
• Limited land guiding: Announcements on the boat only, no guided tours on the islands.
• Ideal for independent explorers: Perfect for those comfortable navigating on their own.

A Deep Dive into the Istanbul 3 Island Cruise Experience

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The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

From the moment you arrive at the Cibaliport Pier, the experience begins. The departure is at 10:00 am, and you’ll board your boat, ideally arriving early to ensure a smooth start. The vessel is equipped for a full-day adventure, with air-conditioned transport and ferry tickets included. As the boat slips into the Sea of Marmara, you’ll start to feel the anticipation of a relaxing day away from Istanbul’s busy streets.

The first stop is Büyükada, the largest of the islands. Known for its historic mansions, pine forests, and car-free streets, Büyükada offers a charming environment perfect for renting a bike or strolling around. While there’s no guided tour, the island’s main attractions are within walking distance, and you’ll have about an hour of free time. Some travelers like the idea of cycling around, which is easy here since electric car rentals cost just 2 Turkish Lira per person — a small fee for the freedom to explore at your leisure.

Next, the boat takes you to Heybeliada, famous for its pine forests and monastic history. Here, you can walk through quiet streets, enjoy scenic views, or relax by the beaches. Again, about an hour of free time is allotted, so you can choose to soak in the tranquility or explore the local cafes. The lack of a guide on land means you’ll want to bring a map or use a GPS, especially if you want to maximize your time.

Finally, the boat visits Burgazada, the smallest of the three. Known for its peaceful beaches and laid-back vibe, it’s a lovely spot for a quick swim or a lazy walk along the coast. The overall schedule ensures you get to experience each island without feeling rushed, but some reviews mention the short duration of stay — just about an hour each, which can leave those wanting more a bit disappointed.

After a few hours of island hopping, the boat departs around 4:45 pm for the return journey, arriving back at the Cibaliport Pier around 5:00 pm. Throughout the day, the crew makes announcements in Turkish and English, keeping you informed about the schedule and upcoming stops.

The Food and Atmosphere: What’s the Meal Like?

A highlight of this tour is the lunch served on board. It’s a simple but satisfying meal, perfect for refueling after a morning of sightseeing. The reviews suggest the lunch is tasty, with some travelers mentioning it as a standout part of the experience. There’s no mention of a fancy menu, but the sea views while dining make it feel special. Drinks are available for purchase, so if you want water or soft drinks, you’ll need to buy them separately.

The atmosphere on the boat is generally described as relaxed and friendly. During the voyage, Turkish music and hospitality create a welcoming vibe, adding to the enjoyment. The group sizes are not specified but are likely moderate, allowing for a comfortable experience without feeling crowded.

The Pros and Cons: Is This Tour Right for You?

Pros:
– Excellent value at just $28, including transportation and lunch.
– Beautiful scenery with views of Istanbul’s skyline, Bosphorus, and the islands.
– Flexibility to explore each island independently, perfect for those who prefer self-guided wandering.
– Comfortable travel with air-conditioned vehicles and ferry transfers included.

Cons:
– The short duration on each island (about an hour) might feel rushed if you’re a slow explorer or want an in-depth visit.
– No guided tours or explanations on land, which could be a drawback for those seeking historical context.
– The boat departure times require punctuality; arriving late means missing the trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal if you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to see the Princes Islands without the fuss of organizing transportation or meals. It’s perfect for independent travelers who enjoy wandering at their own pace and simply want scenic views and a relaxing day on the water.

If you love boating, sea views, and free time on charming islands, you’ll appreciate how straightforward and fuss-free this tour is. It’s less suited for travelers seeking detailed guided histories or those who prefer longer stays on each island — the quick visits are best for those who want a taste of island life without committing hours.

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Final Thoughts: Is This a Good Choice?

For its modest price, this tour offers a nice balance of scenic boat rides, island exploration, and local flavor. You get to see three different islands, each with its own character, and enjoy Istanbul’s skyline from the water. The lunch onboard adds convenience, and the free time allows for personal exploration, whether you want to rent a bike on Büyükada, stroll through pine forests on Heybeliada, or relax on Burgazada’s beaches.

However, if you’re a history buff or crave more in-depth guided tours, you might find the short island visits and limited land guidance a bit lacking. Still, for those who value flexibility, affordability, and scenic views, this cruise provides a memorable and authentic day out from Istanbul.

FAQ: Practical Questions About the Istanbul 3 Island Cruise

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking online is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons. You can reserve and pay later, giving you flexibility.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip ferry transfers are included if you select the transfer option. The meeting point is at Cibaliport Pier, and you’ll need to show your ticket.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, a camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. The weather can be sunny and warm, so gear up accordingly.

Are there any guided tours on the islands?
No, the tour provides no guiding on land. Announcements in Turkish and English on the boat keep you informed, but exploration on each island is self-directed.

How long is each island stop?
About an hour on each island, which some travelers find short but sufficient for a quick visit or a stroll.

Is food included?
Lunch is served on the boat, and it receives positive comments for being tasty and convenient. Drinks are extra.

Can I rent bikes or electric cars?
Yes, electric car rentals are available at 2 Turkish Lira per person, and bikes can be rented, making it easier to explore larger islands.

What if I’m not punctual?
Arriving late at the pier might mean missing the boat, as departure times are strict. Be sure to arrive early.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, families with kids enjoy renting bikes and exploring the islands. The relaxed pace and scenic views make it family-friendly.

What if the weather is bad?
The boat trip might be canceled or rescheduled due to weather conditions, and the boat type may change. Always check weather forecasts before your trip.

To sum it up, this Istanbul 3 Island Cruise offers a delightful, budget-friendly way to experience the Princes Islands. It’s best suited for those who want a scenic, relaxed day with plenty of free time to wander and soak in the views. While it might lack detailed guiding or long island stays, it compensates with affordability, convenience, and natural beauty. If you enjoy gentle boat rides, charming scenery, and exploring independently, this tour will serve you well.

You can check availability for your dates here: