Istanbul 3 Island Cruise with Lunch & Free Time

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to experience Istanbul beyond the bustling city streets, a 3 Island Cruise could be just what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a pretty clear picture of what to expect. This cruise offers an affordable escape into nature, history, and sea views—all in one day.

What we love about this experience is the combination of scenic boat rides, the opportunity to explore three different islands at your own pace, and the included onboard lunch with a view. It’s a great option for travelers who want an easy, well-organized day with minimal hassle.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the short amount of free time on each island—some visitors found the hours a bit rushed, especially if they wanted to dig deeper into each location. Still, if you’re after a taste of the islands without spending hours at each stop, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for families, first-timers, or anyone eager to enjoy Istanbul’s sea-based scenery without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Affordable Price Point: At $28 per person, this cruise offers good value for a full-day experience.
• Scenic Views & Photos: Enjoy sweeping views of Istanbul’s skyline, the Sea of Marmara, and the lush islands.
• Flexible Island Exploration: Free time on each island allows for independent discovery—rent a bike, stroll, or relax on the beaches.
• Onboard Lunch & Comfort: A delicious lunch served with sea views makes the trip more enjoyable.
• Limited Guided Tours: Announcements are only in Turkish and English, with no local guides on the islands, so solo or group exploration is on you.
• Timing & Punctuality: Meeting times and departure schedules are strict; arriving on time is crucial to enjoy the full experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point & Departure

The tour begins at Cibaliport Pier at 10:00 AM, with guests either meeting there or opting for hotel pickup if available. The departure is from Ask Boat, and it’s essential to arrive early—reviews mention a late departure can be a downer, so punctuality is key. The boat ride itself is comfortably air-conditioned, and you’ll enjoy the views of Istanbul’s skyline and the Bosphorus on the way out.

The Islands: Büyükada, Heybeliada, and Burgazada

Büyükada: The Largest & Most Touristy

Büyükada is the most developed of the three, often considered the main highlight. Visitors can rent bikes or stroll through charming streets lined with cafes and shops. One reviewer mentioned that it’s a “tourist-made” island, so you can see most of it quickly. If you’re keen on a bike ride, this is the place to do it. The island’s architecture and vibe make for pleasant wandering, but the limited free time (about an hour) can feel rushed if you want to explore extensively.

Heybeliada: Pine Forest & Quiet Charm

This island offers a more relaxed atmosphere with pine forests and fewer crowds. Some travelers enjoy simply walking along the trails or relaxing on the beaches. However, as noted from reviews, the short stop might limit your ability to truly unwind or explore in depth. Still, the scenery is lovely and perfect for a quick nature fix.

Burgazada: The Quiet Escape

Burgazada is the smallest of the three, known for its peaceful beaches and quaint streets. It’s a good spot for a quick swim or a leisurely walk. Visitors who prefer serenity over crowds enjoy this stop, though once again, the brief amount of free time can be a limiting factor for those wanting to linger.

Lunch & On-Board Experience

A notable highlight is the lunch served on the boat, which includes Turkish dishes and offers a chance to relax while taking in the sea views. Several reviews praised the quality and taste, with comments like “lunch was delicious,” adding value to the tour. The lunch service is timed to coincide with the scenic ride, making the meal an integral part of the experience.

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Return & End of Tour

The cruise wraps up around 5:00 PM back at the starting point, leaving you with a full day of scenic views and island exploration. While some reviews suggest the day felt a bit rushed—especially if you wanted more time on each island—the overall experience is considered enjoyable, especially for first-timers.

What the Experience Means for You

Transportation & Punctuality

All inter-island ferry rides are included, and the boat ride itself is described as comfortable with good views. If you choose the hotel transfer option, it simplifies logistics. However, arriving on time at the pier is crucial; missing the boat could mean missing out on the day’s highlights, as reviews highlight the importance of punctuality.

Guided Tours & Independent Exploration

While live guiding is only available via announcements and no local guides are on the islands, the scenery and layout of the islands make self-guided exploration easy. Some travelers, especially those who speak English, found the lack of guided tours manageable since they could explore independently or get help from fellow travelers.

Value for Money

At just $28 per person, this tour easily fits into a budget-friendly category. When you factor in the boat rides, island visits, and lunch, the price offers a solid value for a full day of sightseeing. It’s especially appealing for those who want a hassle-free way to see the islands without organizing transport or activities separately.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise suits first-time visitors to Istanbul, families with kids, or budget travelers keen to see the Princes Islands without hefty costs. It’s perfect for those wanting scenic views, relaxed exploration, and a taste of local life on the islands, all in a single day.

Final Thoughts

This Istanbul 3 Island Cruise offers a neat blend of sea views, island wanderings, and a tasty onboard meal. While the limited free time on each island might frustrate those wanting a deeper dive into each spot, the overall experience provides a good introduction to the Princes Islands at a very reasonable price.

The lack of guided tours on the islands means you’ll need to be comfortable exploring independently, but the scenic boat rides and relaxing atmosphere more than compensate. For travelers seeking a simple, scenic, and affordable day out from Istanbul, this cruise is a solid choice.

It’s especially well-suited for those new to Istanbul or looking for a low-stress way to enjoy the sea and islands without spending a fortune. If you value comfort, scenic views, and a taste of island life, this cruise wins as a dependable, straightforward option.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes. Ferry tickets for all island transfers are included. If you select the hotel pickup option, transportation in air-conditioned vehicles is also provided.

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 10:00 AM at Cibaliport Pier and concludes around 5:00 PM back at the starting point.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and comfortable clothes. Since you will be outdoors and near water, these items are essential.

Is there a guide on the islands?
No, there are no guides on the islands. Announcements are made on the boat in Turkish and English, but exploration on the islands is self-directed.

How much free time do I get on each island?
Expect about an hour per island, which is enough for a quick walk or bike ride but may feel rushed for those wanting a longer stay.

Can I rent bikes or electric cars?
Bike rentals are available on Büyükada, and electric car rentals cost about 2 euros per person, but these are not included in the tour price.

Is the lunch provided good?
Yes, reviews mention the onboard lunch as tasty and filling, adding considerable value to the overall experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, but keep in mind the short island stops and walking involved. Pacing may be a consideration for very young children or elderly travelers.

This boat trip offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural exposure, and relaxation—all at an accessible price point. If you’re after a fun, straightforward way to enjoy Istanbul’s sea and islands, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: