Istanbul: Princes’ Islands Cruise with Lunch and Free Time

Exploring the Princes’ Islands from Istanbul offers a charming escape from city life—without the noise of cars and traffic. This cruise, provided by Istanbul E-pass, takes you on a half-day journey across the Marmara Sea to visit Buyukada and Kinaliada, two of the most picturesque spots in the archipelago. With a friendly guide, a tasty onboard lunch, and plenty of free time, it’s a wonderfully relaxing way to see a side of Istanbul often overlooked by travelers rushing through the city’s historic sites.

What I really appreciate about this experience is how it balances guided insight with plenty of freedom to explore. You’ll love the panoramic views from Buyukada’s Aya Yorgi Church, and the gentle quiet of Kinaliada’s peaceful beaches. Plus, for a modest price of around $33, it offers a surprisingly full day of scenery, culture, and relaxation.

One thing to keep in mind is that the cruise departs from a different port than it returns to—so planning your transportation to and from the start point is key. Also, if you’re expecting a detailed brochure or map, you might find it helpful to bring a digital map or note the main points of interest beforehand, as one traveler suggested. This tour offers excellent value, especially if you enjoy scenic boat rides and natural beauty, but it’s worth being aware of some logistical details.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Natural beauty and tranquility: The islands are free of cars, offer pine forests, colorful flowers, and quiet beaches—an ideal escape from Istanbul’s hustle.
• Spectacular views and photo ops: From the hilltop Aya Yorgi Church on Buyukada to the reddish hills of Kinaliada, the vistas are stunning.
• Guided and independent exploration: The guide provides insights, but you also get 1.5 hours on each island to wander at your own pace.
• Affordable price for a full experience: At just $33, the cruise includes the boat journey, guide, and a tasty lunch, making it good value.
• Logistical considerations: Departure and return ports are different, so plan your transport accordingly.
• Helpful tips from past travelers: Guides are accessible via WhatsApp to assist with directions; bringing a digital map may enhance your experience.

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This Princes’ Islands cruise is a straightforward way to see some of Istanbul’s most charming spots from the water. The trip begins with a short ride across the Marmara Sea on a comfortable boat, typically lasting around an hour. Once you arrive at Buyukada, the biggest and most famous of the islands, you’re given 1.5 hours to explore. That’s enough time to visit the Byzantine-era Aya Yorgi Church, walk through fragrant pine forests, and enjoy the colorful gardens that make the island feel like a peaceful retreat.

The highlight on Buyukada is the panoramic view from Aya Yorgi Church, perched atop a hill. According to one traveler, the guides are very helpful—they were reachable via WhatsApp, which helped when first finding the departure point. After the free exploration, everyone reconvenes for a tasty onboard lunch, which is included in the price. The food is simple but satisfying, giving you enough energy to continue your journey comfortably.

Next, you cruise to Kinaliada, the smallest of the Princes’ Islands. Here, you’ll find a tranquil atmosphere, with quiet beaches and historic sites like Surp Krikor Lusavoric Armenian Church and Hristos Monastery. The reddish hills set a dramatic backdrop against the deep blue waters of the Marmara. The views are especially good for photography or just soaking in the peaceful scenery.

Finally, after some more sightseeing and relaxation, you sail back to Istanbul, enjoying the stunning sea vistas the whole way. The experience lasts around six hours, including the boat ride, exploration time, and lunch, making it a compact but fulfilling day out.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The natural surroundings are the main draw—pine forests, flowers, and quiet beaches that stand in stark contrast to Istanbul’s busy streets. Many travelers comment on the stunning views from higher points like Aya Yorgi Church, which offers sweeping panoramas of the islands and the sea beyond.

The combination of guided commentary and free time is another major plus. You’ll get expert insights from your guide, who makes the history and scenery come alive, but also enough opportunity to wander on your own. The 1.5 hours on each island is enough to visit key sights without feeling rushed, giving you a sense of independence.

The value for money is undeniable. For about $33, you get the cruise, a guide, a hearty lunch, and free time on two islands. Past travelers have found the lunch quite enjoyable, with one mentioning it as a highlight, and the overall price seems very reasonable given the experience.

The Logistics and Practicalities

Departure is from a port across from Kadir Has University, while the return is at Ahirkapi Skelesi Port, which means you’ll want to plan your transport to the initial meeting point accordingly. The boat, named the “Deluxe,” is wheelchair accessible, making it an inclusive option for many travelers.

Interestingly, some reviewers pointed out logistical hurdles—such as finding the departure point initially being tricky—but guides were available via WhatsApp to assist. Bringing a digital map or directions could smooth out your start. Also, drinks are not included with the onboard lunch, so consider bringing your own or purchasing drinks separately.

The tour runs for about six hours, with flexible start times depending on availability. It’s a relaxed pace, perfect for those who prefer scenic touring without rushing from site to site.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for nature lovers and anyone seeking a peaceful break from the city. If you enjoy boat rides, panoramic views, and a touch of local culture, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also a good choice for travelers on a budget who want an authentic, relaxed experience without the crowds. Families, couples, or solo travelers will all appreciate the mix of guided info and free exploration time.

However, if you’re expecting a detailed, historical tour of the islands or full-day sightseeing, this trip may feel a bit limited in scope. It’s more about soaking in the scenery and enjoying a leisurely cruise than in-depth historical exploration.

The Authentic Touch: Past Travelers’ Insights

One traveler shared that, “It was initially hard to find but the guides were available by WhatsApp and helped us get to the boat. The trip and lunch were great.” This highlights how helpful the guides can be, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Istanbul’s ports. Another expressed a desire for a digital brochure or map, as “a small digital brochure with a map could be useful to mark the most characteristic points.” This suggests that, while the experience is enjoyable, a little extra info could enhance the visit.

The comments reflect a generally positive vibe, emphasizing stunning views and friendly guidance as key strengths. The included lunch was well-received, providing a satisfying meal after a morning of exploration.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to see Istanbul’s Princes’ Islands without spending a fortune, this cruise ticks many boxes. It offers stunning scenery, a mix of guided and free time, and the chance to breathe some fresh air away from the city’s noise. It’s particularly suited for nature lovers, families, or travelers seeking a laid-back day with beautiful views and authentic island charm.

While logistical details like finding the departure port require a bit of planning, the overall experience is straightforward, enjoyable, and good value for money. It’s a perfect way to add a peaceful, scenic touch to your Istanbul visit.

How long does the cruise last?
The entire experience lasts about six hours, including boat time, exploration, and lunch.

Where does the tour start and end?
The cruise departs from a port across from Kadir Has University and returns to Ahirkapi Skelesi Port in Istanbul.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the boat, named “Deluxe,” is wheelchair accessible.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the cruise, guide, onboard lunch, and free time on two Princes’ Islands.

Are drinks included with lunch?
No, drinks are not included and must be purchased separately.

How much free time do I get on each island?
You get approximately 1.5 hours on each island for independent exploration.

Can I get help finding the departure point?
Yes, guides are available via WhatsApp and helpful in guiding you to the departure location.

Do I need a map or brochure?
While not provided, bringing a digital map or researching main points of interest can enhance your visit, as one traveler suggested.

This Princes’ Islands cruise offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, scenic vistas, and relaxed exploration—perfect for anyone wanting a peaceful break and a taste of island life near Istanbul.