Istanbul 3 Island Cruise with Lunch & Free Time

Discover Istanbul’s Princes Islands on a Full-Day Cruise with Lunch and Free Time

Taking a boat trip around Istanbul’s Princes Islands can be a wonderful way to escape the city’s hustle and enjoy some genuine relaxation on the water. This particular tour offers a full day of scenic sea views, visits to three charming islands—Büyükada, Heybeliada, and Burgazada—and a tasty lunch on board. It’s a straightforward, budget-friendly option for travelers wanting a mix of sightseeing, peaceful nature, and a taste of local life.

One feature we really appreciate is the free time on each island, giving you the chance to explore at your own pace—whether that’s renting a bike, wandering pretty streets, or relaxing at a quiet beach. The lunch served on the boat also adds a nice touch, making this trip feel like a well-rounded day out rather than just a ferry ride. However, a possible drawback is the lack of guided tours on the islands themselves, meaning you’ll need to explore independently without a guide’s insights.

This tour suits those seeking a laid-back, affordable day of sightseeing with minimal fuss. If you’re interested in scenic views and authentic island vibes but don’t want to spend a fortune or commit to a guided tour, this could be a great fit. Keep in mind, it’s less ideal if you’re looking for in-depth historical guidance or have mobility limitations, as the tour doesn’t include guided walks on the islands.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $28 per person, it offers excellent value for a full day out.
• Scenic Sea Views: Enjoy the Bosphorus and Princes Islands from the water—ideal for photography and relaxing.
• Free Time on Islands: Plenty of opportunity to explore, rent bikes, or relax at your own pace.
• Lunch on Board: A tasty meal served with panoramic sea views enhances the experience.
• Limited On-Island Guidance: No local guides on the islands; exploration is self-directed.
• Departure and Return: Starts at 10:00 from Cibaliport Pier, returning by 17:00; punctuality is key.
• Transport Included: Round-trip ferry transfers make the logistics smooth.
• Multi-lingual Announcements: Announcements in Turkish and English keep everyone informed, though guides are only on the boat.
• No Wheelchair Access: The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

A Deep Dive into the Princes Islands Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

We loved that the tour kicks off at the Cibaliport Pier at 10:00, with an option for hotel pickup—especially helpful if you prefer a hassle-free start. The round-trip ferry tickets are included, eliminating the need to worry about separate bookings or navigating Istanbul’s busy ferry system. The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering fantastic views of the Istanbul skyline, the Bosphorus, and the shimmering waters of the Sea of Marmara. Expect announcements that keep you updated in both Turkish and English, although live guiding isn’t provided on the islands, only during the cruise.

The Boat Experience

The vessel is a comfortable setting for the day, with air-conditioned transport and space to relax or chat with fellow travelers. The atmosphere is generally upbeat, with Turkish music playing, as some reviews noted, adding a lively vibe. One reviewer mentioned that the music was loud and almost unbearable at times, so if you’re sensitive to noise, it might be worth bringing earplugs. The lunch served on board is a big perk—many travelers raved about the quality and flavor, describing it as delicious and well-presented while enjoying panoramic views through the ship’s windows.

Visiting Büyükada: The Largest and Most Popular

Büyükada is often the main highlight. Known for its charming streets, historic mansions, and horse-drawn carriages (now mostly replaced by electric ones), it’s a favorite for those wanting a taste of classic island life. You’ll have free time to explore, whether that’s riding a bike (rental costs about 2 euros per person), strolling along the waterfront, or relaxing at a café.

A reviewer from Japan shared that the island felt touristy but still worth a quick visit, especially with the option to rent bikes and see the sights at your own pace. Meanwhile, some visitors expressed disappointment about the short amount of time on each island—“not much time to spend on the islands,” as one said—so plan accordingly if you want to maximize your visit.

Heybeliada: Pine Forests and Quiet Charm

Next stop is Heybeliada, often called the “green island” because of its lush pine forests and peaceful atmosphere. Here, the focus is on nature and tranquility. You can wander through the pine groves, enjoy the fresh air, or visit the historic monastery and church. Since the tour doesn’t include guided walks, you might find a quiet spot to soak in the serene environment or rent a bike to see more of the island. A reviewer loved the hospitality of the staff and mentioned that the island is perfect for a short, scenic trip.

Burgazada: Relaxed Beaches and Cozy Vibes

The third island, Burgazada, offers a more laid-back experience with fewer crowds and quiet beaches. It’s ideal for those wanting a restful break, or who simply want to dip their toes in the sea. Reviewers appreciated the opportunity to relax and enjoy the calm waters, though they also noted the short time available—so it’s more about quick sightseeing and relaxation than extended exploration.

Return Journey and Overall Length

The boat departs from Burgazada around 16:00 to head back, with the return to Cibaliport scheduled for 17:00. The duration of roughly 8 hours makes it a full but manageable day out. Most reviews reflect on how the trip felt just right in length—enough to see the highlights without feeling rushed. Some travelers mentioned that the time on the islands could be a bit tight, so plan your explorations accordingly.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $28 per person, this tour offers great value considering the round-trip ferry, the scenic cruise, and the included lunch. It’s an economical way to see three islands without the hassle of separate tickets or transportation. The absence of guided tours on the islands means you’re not paying for a guide, but the audio announcements on the boat help keep you informed about the sights and the itinerary.

While some reviews mentioned that windows on the boat weren’t always perfectly clean, the overall experience still impressed many with the stunning sea views and the relaxing atmosphere. Plus, the opportunity to explore at your own pace during free time can make for a highly personalized day.

Additional costs to consider include optional electric bike rentals (around 2 euros), drinks, or personal expenses. No guided commentary on the islands means you might miss some historical details unless you do your own research.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers looking for a relaxing, low-cost day trip from Istanbul. It’s ideal if you enjoy scenic boat rides, want some free time to explore islands independently, and are happy to navigate without guided tours. It suits families with kids, couples, or solo travelers seeking a leisurely break away from the city noise.

However, it’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues, as the tour doesn’t have accessible facilities. Also, if you’re after in-depth historical guides or a slower pace, you might find this tour too rushed and too independent.

The Sum Up

This Istanbul 3 Island Cruise with lunch offers a straightforward, affordable way to experience the beauty and tranquility of the Princes Islands. Its highlight is the free time on each island, giving you the chance to explore, relax, or rent a bike—making it more flexible than guided tours. The lunch on board adds value, and the scenic cruise offers plenty of picture-perfect moments.

While it’s not a tour for those craving detailed guides or extensive island exploration, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want a laid-back, scenic escape with excellent value. It’s well-suited for groups, families, or anyone wanting to enjoy Istanbul’s seascape without breaking the bank.

If your priority is a fun, easy-going day with beautiful views and a taste of island life, this cruise deserves a spot on your Istanbul itinerary.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
You can choose the option for hotel pickup and drop-off, making the start of your day more convenient. If not, you’ll need to arrive at Cibaliport Pier on time.

What time does the tour start and end?
It starts around 10:00 from Cibaliport Pier and returns around 17:00, giving you a full day of sightseeing.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes—sunglasses, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes are recommended for comfort and sun protection.

Are guides available on the islands?
No, there are no guides on the islands; exploration is self-directed. Announcements on the boat provide some information, but no guided walks.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for kids, especially those comfortable with independent exploration and boat rides. Just note that electric bike rentals are optional, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

What’s included in the price?
Round-trip ferry transfers, a delicious lunch on the boat, local taxes, and service charges are included. Hotel pickup is optional.

Are drinks available?
Drinks are available for an extra charge, so you might want to bring some water or purchase beverages on board.

Can I rent bikes on the islands?
Yes, bikes are available for rent at about 2 euros per person, adding to your flexibility and fun on each island.

What if I want a guided tour?
This tour does not include guided walks or detailed history, so if you prefer guided experiences, you might want to look for other options.

This full-day Princes Islands tour offers a balanced mix of scenic views, free exploration, and good value. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a relaxing escape from the bustling streets of Istanbul, with just enough structure to make the most of your day.