Istanbul: Princes’ Islands Cruise w/Music, Lunch & Transfer

Discover the Princes’ Islands from Istanbul on a 7-hour cruise that combines scenic views, island exploration, and onboard entertainment. For just $33 per person, you’ll enjoy a boat trip that takes you away from the bustling city to the peaceful shores of Büyükada and Knalada—two of Istanbul’s most beloved nearby escape islands.

What we love about this tour is the relaxed pace it offers, allowing plenty of free time to wander, swim, or rent electric bikes among stunning mansions and quiet streets. The onboard vibe is lively, with music and a tasty lunch, making it feel like a true day of leisure.

A possible consideration? The loud music on the boat might not be everyone’s cup of tea—some reviews mention it can be overpowering, especially on the way to the islands. Also, note that the experience is more about nature and free exploration than in-depth guided sightseeing, so if you’re after detailed historical commentary, this might not be your ideal choice.

This tour suits travelers looking for a budget-friendly, low-stress day outside Istanbul’s chaos—perfect if you enjoy a mix of scenic cruising, casual island wandering, and a lively onboard atmosphere.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $33, this tour offers a good value for a full day of island hopping.
• Flexible Exploration: Plenty of free time on each island to walk, swim, or rent electric bikes.
• Guided Intro on Knalada: A short walking tour provides context and highlights.
• Lively Atmosphere: Music and onboard lunch create a fun, relaxed vibe.
• Beautiful Island Views: Büyükada’s mansions and quiet streets are a highlight.
• Potential Noise Issue: Loud music might not suit everyone, especially during the trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with a hotel pickup—if you choose this option—then heads to the port where you’ll board a boat named “Deluxe.” From there, the journey starts with a scenic cruise across the Marmara Sea. The views of Istanbul’s skyline from the water are impressive, and the fresh sea breeze helps you feel a world away from the city’s noise.

The first stop is Knalada, a smaller, less developed island. Here, your guide will lead a brief walking tour, sharing tidbits about the island’s history and its charm. The reviews describe guides as knowledgeable, with one noting that the guide “had all details about the islands,” which adds a layer of interest during the visit.

After the walk, it’s back on the boat for a well-deserved lunch. The included meal is generally described as good, with some reviews mentioning delicious food and a pleasant ambiance. However, a common tip is to bring your own drinks or snacks, especially if you’re vegetarian or have specific dietary needs, since drinks are not included and the lunch options may be limited.

The afternoon is dedicated to exploring Büyükada, the largest of the nine islands. This is often the highlight for travelers, thanks to its imposing mansions, quiet beaches, and hills. Cars are banned here, so the best way to get around is either on foot or by renting electric bikes or scooters—urged upon visitors by guides or available for rent on-site. Multiple reviews mention enjoying the bike rides among the grand houses or relaxing on the peaceful beaches, with one reviewer stating, “The islands were so beautiful outside the busy market areas.”

You’ll have several hours of free time, which is perfect for wandering, taking photos, or simply relaxing by the water. Some travelers appreciated the option to leave early if they wanted, while others wished for more time on each island—reviewers noted the trip felt somewhat rushed, especially in terms of island exploration.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers hotel pickup (if selected), boat trip, and lunch—a straightforward offering that emphasizes simplicity and value. Drinks aren’t included, and the optional electric vehicle rentals are paid separately on-site, with some reviewers mentioning that guides are helpful in arranging alternative transportation, like electric cars, for those who prefer not to bike.

The Atmosphere and Environment

The onboard environment is lively—music plays loudly during the trip, creating a festive mood. Many reviews mention enjoying the music, food, and friendly staff, describing the overall vibe as “magical” and “fabulous,” perfect for travelers who want a fun, relaxed experience. However, some find the volume a bit overwhelming, especially when trying to enjoy the scenery or have conversations.

The scenery on the islands is stunning, especially on Büyükada, with its grand mansions and lush greenery. The quiet beaches provide a welcome escape from Istanbul’s crowded streets, making this tour an excellent option for those looking to unwind and soak up some sun.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re happy with a basic, budget-friendly day trip that emphasizes free exploration rather than detailed guided sightseeing, this tour is ideal. It’s especially suited for casual travelers, families, or groups who want a relaxed day with some swimming, walking, and sightseeing combined with lively onboard entertainment.

However, if you’re looking for deep historical insights or a quiet, peaceful experience free from loud music, you might find this tour a bit too lively or rushed. Keep in mind that it’s more about the scenic and social aspects of the islands than a cultural deep dive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the optional pickup, your driver will collect you from your hotel and drop you off at the meeting point. Make sure to be ready about 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time.

How long is the boat trip?
The entire tour lasts about 7 hours, including transfers, cruising, island stops, and lunch.

Are there any guided tours on the islands?
Yes, there’s a guided walking tour of Knalada. However, the rest of the time on Büyükada is free for you to explore at your own pace.

Can I rent a vehicle on the islands?
Yes, electric bikes and scooters are available for rent on Büyükada, but you’ll pay on the spot. Guides or staff can help organize alternative options if you prefer not to bike.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and snacks or drinks if you have dietary preferences, as they’re not included. Also, comfortable walking shoes are a good idea for exploring the islands.

Is there any cultural commentary?
This tour is more about nature and scenery than in-depth history or culture. If you want detailed historical insights, you might want to look for other options.

Final Thoughts

This Princes’ Islands cruise offers a great way to escape Istanbul’s hustle for a day—especially if you enjoy a casual, lively atmosphere with plenty of free time to roam around beautiful, peaceful islands. The combination of scenic boat rides, grand mansions, and relaxing beaches, along with the included lunch and optional electric vehicle rentals, creates a balanced experience that appeals to many.

While the loud music might not suit everyone, many travelers appreciate the overall vibe and the value for the price. It’s a wonderful choice if you’re looking for a cost-effective, flexible day trip that balances sightseeing with leisure.

In short, this tour is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a taste of island life, families looking for a relaxed day, or anyone eager to experience Istanbul from a different perspective—on the water, among the islands, and with plenty of opportunities to unwind.

Enjoy your journey, and don’t forget your camera and a good pair of walking shoes!

You can check availability for your dates here: