Princes' Islands Boat Tour: Büyükada and Heybeliada with Lunch

Princes' Islands Boat Tour from Istanbul with Lunch on Deck

Some days in Istanbul call for less traffic and more horizon. This full-day Princes' Islands boat tour trades the city's busy avenues for the calm of the Sea of Marmara and two car-free islands where horse-drawn days have given way to bicycles and quiet electric shuttles. You visit Heybeliada and Büyükada with a guide and enjoy a buffet lunch served on board while the boat glides between them.

Saying Goodbye to the Old City from the Water

After your hotel pickup in central Istanbul you board the boat on the Golden Horn and set off at 09:45. As the shoreline slips behind you the skyline offers a moving postcard of Topkapı Palace and the Maiden's Tower before open water takes over.

Pine Shade and Sea Breeze on Heybeliada

The first landing brings you to the greenest of the islands. Wander lanes lined with wooden houses and bougainvillea and look up to the hills where the red-brick Naval High School and the historic Halki Seminary stand among the pines.

A Table Set Between Two Islands

Back on deck a buffet lunch is served as the boat crosses towards Büyükada. Expect classic Turkish dishes such as grilled chicken with rice and fresh salad. Soft drinks and tea can be bought on board and vegetarian requests are best shared when you book.

Büyükada at Your Own Rhythm

On the largest island your guide shares a short introduction and then the afternoon is yours for about two hours. Stroll past grand Ottoman-era mansions and the clock tower square or rent a bicycle or electric vehicle to climb towards the Aya Yorgi hill. In summer you can also slip into the sea at one of the small beaches.

A Slow Sail Back to the City

At the agreed time the group gathers at the pier for the return cruise. The ride home is the perfect moment to rest your feet and watch the islands fade into the blue before the boat reaches the city around 16:00 and the transfer takes you back to your hotel.

When the Season Turns Cooler

From mid-November to mid-March the programme visits Büyükada only. On stormy winter days lunch may be served in a restaurant on the island instead of on the boat.

How the Day Flows Hour by Hour

09:45 the boat departs from the Golden Horn. 11:15 arrival on Heybeliada. 12:00 buffet lunch on board. 12:30 arrival on Büyükada with free time. 14:30 return cruise begins. 16:00 the activity ends and your transfer to the hotel follows.