Istanbul: Princes Island Guided Two-Way Trip by Private Boat
Exploring Istanbul’s Princes Islands by boat offers a fresh perspective on this vibrant city. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions reveal an experience packed with scenic views, flexible island explorations, and knowledgeable guides. If you’re dreaming of a day on the water, this trip hits the sweet spot between convenience and authentic discovery.
What we love about this experience are three key aspects: the private boat reservation, which guarantees comfort and exclusivity; the flexible free time on each island, allowing you to tailor your visit; and the live multilingual guides, making the journey informative and engaging. One thing to consider is the lack of included lunch or hotel transfers, so planning ahead is a smart move. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic cruising, want relaxed island exploration, and value small-group, guided experiences.
You can check if your dates are available here:Good To Know
- Private boat ensures a comfortable, exclusive experience for your group.
- Self-guided free time allows flexible exploration on Kinaliada and Büyükada.
- Live guides speak multiple languages, making the trip accessible for diverse travelers.
- Scenic water views of Istanbul’s landmarks from the boat add a memorable touch.
- Convenient departure from Cibali Port with easy public transportation access.
- No lunch included, so consider bringing snacks or planning a meal on the islands.
Introduction to the Princes Islands Tour
This tour captures the magic of Istanbul’s Princes Islands—especially Büyükada, the largest and most famed. The journey begins at Cibali Port, just a short tram ride from central Istanbul, making it easy to access without complicated transfers. The boat, named Milana, is reserved solely for your group, meaning you’ll enjoy a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere compared to larger tour boats.
The experience lasts about eight hours and includes visits to three islands—Kinaliada, Kinalada, and Büyükada—each offering unique sights and a chance for self-guided wandering. The trip’s flexibility is a highlight: you can explore each island at your own pace, with dedicated free time ranging from just an hour on Kinalada to a full three hours on Büyükada.
How the Tour Works: An In-Depth Look
Departure and Arrival
The tour departs from Cibali Port, which is conveniently reachable via the T5 Tram Line. The boat, called Milana, is parked right behind the Cibali Tram stop, streamlining your start. After a smooth boat ride, you’ll arrive at Ahrkap Port on the islands, from where you can easily walk to the main sights or take a leisurely stroll.
On the return, the boat drops you back at Ahrkap Port, and from there, Sultanahmet Square is about a 57-minute walk**, making it straightforward to continue your Istanbul adventures.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyThe Itinerary
- Start at Kadir Has Üniversitesi for a quick briefing before boarding.
- Sightseeing cruise (1.5 hours) offers a chance to see Istanbul’s skyline, including landmarks like the Bosphorus bridges and historic mosques, from the water. This part is ideal for panoramic photos and warming up for the island visits.
- Kinaliada: Known for its pine forests and relaxed vibe, you’ll have an hour for a self-guided tour. Reviewers mention the freedom to explore, with one noting that the “experience was amazing and very fun,” thanks to the laid-back atmosphere.
- Büyükada: The biggest draw, with three hours to walk, relax, or discover the island’s charming streets. According to feedback, Oktay, the guide, was especially helpful, ensuring everyone felt comfortable and informed.
- Return cruise (1 hour 40 minutes) completes the loop, offering more water views and a chance to unwind.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The ticket includes round-trip boat transportation and a professional licensed guide. The boat is reserved exclusively for your group, which means no overcrowding and a more personalized experience. However, lunch and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or planning to purchase on the islands is wise. Also, there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off, so travelers should organize transport to Cibali Port themselves.
The Experience on Board and on the Islands
The boat, Milana, offers more than just transportation—it’s a vantage point for stunning photos of Istanbul’s skyline. The water-based perspective lets you see the city’s historic silhouette against the Bosphorus, which many reviewers describe as “breathtaking.” The guides, available in English, Russian, and Arabic, are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, adding value especially for those unfamiliar with the area.
On the islands, the freedom to wander at your own pace is a major plus. One reviewer shared that Oktay was particularly helpful, checking everyone was onboard and making sure everyone felt comfortable exploring independently. The relaxed atmosphere allows visitors to enjoy cafe culture, stroll along seaside promenades, or simply soak in the views.
The Value of the Tour
At just $11 per person, this trip offers remarkable value. The private boat reservation ensures a comfortable, less crowded experience, and the guided commentary enhances your understanding without overwhelming you. With three hours on Büyükada, you have ample time to relax, explore, or grab a bite—though the tour itself doesn’t include food.
Compared to other options that might include lunch or group tours with larger crowds, this experience stands out for its intimacy and flexibility. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a blend of guided information and free exploration, with the bonus of stunning water vistas.
Authentic Insights from Reviews
Travelers consistently mention the knowledgeable guides and beautiful views as highlights. One traveler from Finland called it “excellent” and praised the smooth operation and helpfulness of the staff. Another from Saudi Arabia described the tour as “amazing,” emphasizing the fun atmosphere and overall happiness. A guest from the UAE appreciated the “vibes on the boat,” especially the attentive staff like Oktay, who checked everyone’s safety and contributed to a relaxing day.
A minor drawback noted was the absence of Arabic guides in one review, but overall, the multilingual guides made the experience accessible. Also, no lunch is included, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry or prefer specific meals.
Who Is This Tour Perfect For?
This tour appeals particularly to travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day away from busy city streets. It’s ideal if you enjoy water-based sightseeing, want flexibility on island exploration, and appreciate small-group intimacy. It suits those who value knowledgeable guides and want a cost-effective option without sacrificing comfort.
It’s less suited for travelers with mobility impairments, as some walking or self-guided exploration on uneven terrain may be involved. Plus, if you prefer guided tours with included meals, you might want to consider other options.
The Sum Up
This private Princes Islands trip offers a balanced mix of scenic water views, flexible island exploration, and insightful guiding—all at a budget-friendly price. The exclusivity of the private boat adds a layer of comfort that larger tours often lack, making it perfect for small groups or families looking for a personalized experience.
The freedom to spend as much time as you’d like on Büyükada, combined with the stunning cruise past Istanbul’s landmarks, creates an experience that feels both relaxing and enriching. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Istanbul explorer, this tour provides a wonderful way to see the islands without feeling rushed or crowded.
Overall, if your goal is to enjoy a scenic, flexible day with knowledgeable guides and gorgeous water views, this tour is a solid choice—especially if you value the intimacy of a private boat.
FAQ
Is the boat reservation exclusive for my group?
Yes, the boat is reserved solely for your group, giving you privacy and a more comfortable experience.
How do I get to Cibali Port?
You can reach Cibali Port directly using the T5 Tram Line, with the boat departing right behind the Cibali Tram stop.
What are the departure and return times?
The tour departs daily at 9:30 am (except May 1), and returns from Büyükada around 3:30 pm.
Is food included in the tour?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, so it’s a good idea to bring snacks or plan to buy on the islands.
Are guides available in languages other than English?
Yes, guides speak English, Russian, and Arabic to accommodate diverse travelers.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments due to walking and self-guided exploration.
How long is the entire tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, including cruising, island visits, and transfer time.
This Princes Islands tour combines scenic cruising, flexible exploration, and expert guidance at a price that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re after stunning views of Istanbul from the water or a relaxing day on charming islands, this experience has a lot to offer.
You can check if your dates are available here: