Istanbul: Princess Island Swimming Tour and Aquapark

Planning a day escape from Istanbul’s busy streets? This Princess Island Swimming Tour and Aquapark offers a refreshing mix of cruising, sunbathing, and water-based fun. For just $70 per person, you get a full 8-hour experience that combines scenic boat rides with playful water activities on Heybeliada, one of the charming Princes’ Islands. It’s a popular choice for families, friends, or anyone craving a break that still captures the spirit of Istanbul’s beautiful surroundings.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love the stunning water views of Istanbul from the boat, providing a different perspective of the city’s skyline. Second, the well-organized transfer and onboard atmosphere make the day smooth and enjoyable. Lastly, the aquapark experience offers fun for all ages, with plenty of slides and lounging spots. A minor consideration might be the timing constraints—some reviews mention feeling rushed or encountering weather that impacts the experience. Still, it’s ideal for those wanting an active, fun-filled day with a focus on relaxation and scenic beauty.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic views, and water-based fun without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Families with children, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a lively day trip will find this experience hits the right balance of adventure and leisure.

Good To Know

• Stunning Istanbul Views: The boat ride offers picturesque vistas of Istanbul’s skyline from the water.
• All-Inclusive Transfers: Hotel pickup and drop-off make for a seamless experience.
• Aquapark Fun: Water slides, sun loungers, and lockers ensure hours of entertainment.
• Flexible Schedule: The tour runs approximately 8 hours, with timings that suit most schedules.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Live commentary and music create a lively onboard vibe.
• Good Value for Money: For $70, you get boat rides, water park access, and transportation, making it a worthwhile option.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Detailed Review of the Tour Experience

Ease of Booking and Pricing

Starting at $70 per person, this tour strikes a balanced chord between affordability and value. When considering the included services—round-trip hotel transfers, aquapark entry, sun loungers, lockers, and access to showers and toilets—it’s clear that most of your needs are covered without hidden costs. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off is a significant plus, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area or prefer to avoid public transportation hassles.

The Journey to Heybeliada

The tour begins early, with pickup usually between 8:00 and 9:15 am, depending on your hotel’s location. The comfortable transfer to Dentur Avrasya Pier in Kabatas sets a relaxed tone. From there, you’ll board a boat that’s described as comfortable and well-maintained, with live guides providing commentary along with music, creating a lively, social atmosphere.

Travelers have noted that the boat ride itself is a highlight—offering spectacular views of Istanbul from the water. The chance to see the city’s skyline, minarets, and Bosphorus bridges from a different vantage point is quite special. Several reviews mention that the guides are knowledgeable, sharing insights about the islands and the surrounding waters, which enhances the overall experience.

Arrival at Heybeliada and Aquapark Delights

Arriving at Heybeliada around 10:45 am, you’re greeted with a scenic view of the Princes’ Islands—a cluster of peaceful, car-free retreats. The aquapark is the main attraction here, with water slides, pools, and plenty of space for sunbathing. Reviewers have described the water slides as “great for both kids and adults,” with large portions at the aquapark ensuring you don’t need to over-order food or drinks.

Facilities are well-maintained, including lockers for valuables, showers, and toilets. The atmosphere is relaxed, with sun loungers and parasols available for those wanting to unwind. You might find that the day is a perfect mix of active fun and leisurely downtime, especially if you enjoy splashing around or soaking up the sun.

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The Return Journey and Sunset Views

By 4:00 pm, the group begins its return voyage across the Marmara Sea. This part of the trip is equally scenic, with live commentary and music continuing onboard. Many travelers have enjoyed the transition from the lively waterpark to the calm, reflective cruise back to Istanbul. The sunset views as you approach the city are described as “breathtaking,” making it a memorable end to the trip.

Overall Value and Experience

The 8-hour experience is well-paced, balancing boat rides, water park activities, and scenic cruising. The reviews consistently praise the friendly staff, mention the cleanliness of the facilities, and highlight the beautiful scenery. Several travelers emphasize how well-organized everything was, describing it as “stress-free” and “easy” from start to finish.

However, some reviewers note that the time at the aquapark can feel short—around 4 hours—especially if the weather is less than ideal or if you arrive later. Still, many find that this balance of relaxation and activity offers a delightful escape from Istanbul’s urban buzz.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for families with children, as the aquapark is suitable for all ages and offers plenty of fun. It’s also ideal for groups of friends seeking a lively, social day out with scenic views. Solo travelers wanting a relaxed yet engaging experience will find the boat cruise particularly enjoyable. Finally, if you appreciate a well-organized, all-in-one day trip that combines sightseeing, water activities, and easy logistics, this tour fits the bill.

It’s worth noting that if you’re looking for a full day solely focused on beaches or more extensive island exploration, this tour might feel a bit concentrated on the water park. But if your goal is a balanced combination of scenic cruising and playful water time with comfort and convenience in mind, this experience delivers.

The Sum Up

The Princess Island Swimming Tour and Aquapark offers a lively, scenic, and family-friendly way to break away from Istanbul’s busy city life. The combination of a boat cruise with views of the skyline, the fun-filled aquapark, and the ease of hotel transfers make it a compelling option for many travelers. The tour’s well-reviewed guides, comfortable facilities, and stunning vistas create a memorable day that’s both relaxing and active.

While the short time at the aquapark might not suit those wanting extensive island exploration, its focus on fun and scenic cruising makes it an excellent choice for a quick, enjoyable escape. This experience provides good value, loads of authentic fun, and a taste of Istanbul’s beautiful surroundings—perfect for families, friends, or solo travelers craving a lively, scenic day on the water.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, from hotel pickup in the morning to hotel drop-off in the late afternoon.

What is included in the price?
You get round-trip hotel transfers, access to the aquapark, lockers, sun loungers, umbrellas, and facilities such as showers and toilets.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring some snacks or money for purchases at the aquapark.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and possibly a towel. It’s also good to have some cash or cards for optional purchases.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the aquapark is suitable for all ages, and many reviews highlight its family-friendly atmosphere.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

This tour balances scenic beauty, fun activities, and ease of access, making it a standout option for anyone wanting a taste of Istanbul’s island life without the hassle of extensive planning. Whether you’re after a lively day with friends or a family-friendly escape, it’s a trip that offers both relaxation and excitement.

You can check if your dates are available here: