Princes’ Islands Cruise with Lunch and Transfer Full-Day Tour

Taking a day to explore the Princes’ Islands from Istanbul offers a break from the city’s hustle and bustle, with the promise of quiet beaches, historic mansions, and scenic boat rides. This particular tour, operated by Tourigy, promises a full-day adventure with hotel transfers, a guided tour, a buffet lunch on a private boat, and stops at Büyükada and Kınalada. It’s a popular choice for those craving a laid-back escape, but like many tours, it has its share of pros and cons.

What we appreciate most about this experience is the exclusive boat, which sets it apart from the usual public ferry trips. The chance to explore the islands without the crowds, combined with an included guide and lunch, offers convenient value. However, some travelers have noted issues such as delays, safety concerns, and a somewhat hurried schedule. Whether this tour is right for you depends on your expectations for comfort, organization, and authentic island exploration.

If you’re after a straightforward, budget-friendly tour that covers the key sights of the Princes’ Islands while providing some guided insights, this trip might suit your plans. But be prepared for some variability in quality, as reviews suggest.

Key Points

• Private boat offers a more intimate experience than public ferries, reducing crowds.
• Timing and organization can sometimes be inconsistent, so patience is helpful.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, adding convenience.
• Island stops at Büyükada and Kınalada provide ample free time and scenic walks.
• Lunch on board is included, but reviews suggest the quality can be mediocre.
• Safety and communication may be concerns, so travelers should stay vigilant.

An In-Depth Look at the Princes’ Islands Full-Day Tour

The Itinerary: What’s Included and What You Can Expect

Start at Ahrkap Caddesi, where the tour begins with hotel pickups and a transfer to the port. The journey to the boat typically takes around 45 minutes. From there, you’re set to sail into the waters surrounding Istanbul, beginning with a short transfer to Kınalada, one of the smaller yet charming islands.

Kınalada offers a quick stop where you’ll take a guided walk. This gives you a taste of the island’s quiet streets and modest scenery. As one reviewer mentioned, the stop on the small island might seem a bit pointless, especially if you’re eager to see the larger, more famous islands. But it does break up the journey and offers some scenic views.

Next up is lunch on the boat—a buffet meant to recharge you for the next activity. The included meal is generally described as simple, with some reviews saying it’s “mediocre at best” but enough for a basic meal. If you’re not a fan of buffets, you may prefer to skip it, as some travelers did.

The highlight for many is a stop at Büyükada, the largest and most well-known of the Princes’ Islands. Here, you’ll have around four hours of free time. This is plenty to wander among the grand mansions, relax on quiet beaches, or rent an electric bike or scooter (cars are not permitted on the island). Reviewers praise Büyükada for its tranquil atmosphere and scenic streets, making it perfect for a relaxed exploration. One traveler fondly remarked on the “glorious mansions with characteristic balconies,” which really showcase Istanbul’s elegant past.

The final part of the tour involves a boat ride back to Istanbul, with about three hours of scenic cruising. During this return, you can sit back, enjoy the views, and reflect on your day.

The Boat: Comfort and Safety

The boat itself is described as old but functional. While some reviewers note that it may lack modern amenities, it still manages to deliver a safe and enjoyable ride. A common concern, however, is the absence of a safety briefing—no explanations about life vests or raft locations, which could be a concern for the more cautious traveler.

One reviewer even called the boat “not very new,” but acknowledged it was good enough for a comfortable trip. As the tour is run by a private company, the boat’s condition might not match newer vessels, but it appears to be maintained sufficiently.

Guides and Commentary

The presence of a licensed guide is a definite plus. Multiple reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and ability to answer questions, with one saying, “the staff on the boat has great knowledge.” This kind of commentary makes a big difference if you’re interested in a bit of context about the islands’ history and local culture.

However, some reviewers noted that the guiding was not especially audible or engaging, and that there was no detailed narration during the cruise, which could be disappointing if you’re hoping for a thorough guided experience.

Pricing and Value

At around $25 per person, the tour is quite affordable considering the inclusion of hotel transfers, a guided tour, boat ride, and lunch. While some consider it a good value for money, others feel that the price might be a bit steep for the quality, especially given the reported delays, safety concerns, and mediocre lunch.

Comparing this to a DIY trip—simply taking the public ferry and exploring on your own—some reviews suggest that doing the Islands independently can be more flexible and cheaper. However, you’ll miss out on the guided insights and the convenience of organized transfers.

Practical Tips from Reviewers

• Delays are common, so arriving early and having patience helps.
• Communication issues are noted; some travelers had difficulty contacting the tour operator before or during the trip.
• Weather considerations are important—if the weather is poor, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, with full refunds offered.
• Group size is capped at around 150 travelers, but during peak times, it might feel crowded on the boat.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who prefer a structured experience with minimal planning, enjoy boat rides, and want to visit multiple islands in one day. If you’re okay with a less modern boat and some potential delays, it offers a straightforward way to see the highlights of the Princes’ Islands without the hassle of organizing everything yourself.

Those who value local guides and group transportation will appreciate the included insights and convenience. However, if safety, punctuality, or gourmet food are your priorities, you might want to consider alternative options or DIY arrangements.

The Sum Up

The Princes’ Islands Cruise with Lunch and Transfer offers a practical, budget-friendly way to discover Istanbul’s surrounding islands. Its highlights are the scenic boat ride, free time on Büyükada, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. The presence of a knowledgeable guide adds educational value, especially if you’re keen to learn about the islands’ history.

Nevertheless, the tour isn’t perfect. Some travelers experience delays, safety oversights, and mediocre food, so it’s best suited for those who are flexible and looking for a no-fuss day trip rather than a luxury experience. If you’re comfortable with a simple, guided excursion that covers the essentials and don’t mind the occasional hiccup, this tour can be a satisfying way to enjoy a slice of island life just outside Istanbul.

For travelers wanting a more independent experience, a ferry trip combined with your own exploration might be better. But if you prefer the ease of a guided group with included transport and lunch, this tour offers solid value and beautiful scenery—just keep your expectations in check.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient for travelers staying in Istanbul.

How long is the entire tour? The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, covering boat trips, island stops, and transportation.

What islands are visited during the tour? You’ll visit Kınalada briefly and spend the most time on Büyükada, the largest of the Princes’ Islands.

Is lunch included? Yes, a buffet lunch is served on the boat. Reviewers note it’s simple and basic, so don’t expect gourmet standards.

Can I rent bikes or scooters on Büyükada? Rentals are available, but not included in the tour. Cars are not allowed on the island, making bikes and scooters the best way to explore.

What safety measures are in place? The boat may lack detailed safety briefings, and some reviewers mention the vessel’s age. Always stay vigilant and ask staff if you have safety concerns.

This comprehensive guide helps you weigh the pros and cons of the Princes’ Islands Cruise with Lunch and Transfer, offering insights from real travelers and honest reflections on what to expect. Whether you’re after a quick, scenic escape or a more leisurely island exploration, knowing the details about timing, comfort, and value helps you make the right choice for your Istanbul adventure.