Istanbul: Princess Island Swimming Tour and Aquapark

Istanbul: Princess Island Swimming Tour and Aquapark offers a delightful escape from the city’s hustle, combining scenic boat rides, refreshing swims, and fun water activities. For those craving a day to unwind amidst nature with a splash of adventure, this tour hits the right notes. With a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and playful water fun, it appeals to families, friends, and solo travelers alike.

What we love about this experience is the chance to view Istanbul from a different perspective—sailing across the Sea of Marmara, surrounded by shimmering waters and iconic cityscapes. The aquapark, with its water slides and pools, promises a lively, joyful atmosphere, especially for those traveling with children or seeking a bit of splashy fun. The live guide commentary and music onboard add a lively vibe, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination. Plus, the hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple, saving you time and hassle.

A possible consideration is the timing of the aquapark visit, which can be a bit short—around 4 hours according to reviews. If you’re expecting a full day of swimming and relaxation, that might feel a little constrained, especially if weather isn’t ideal. Still, for most, the overall experience offers excellent value, especially at just $71 per person.

This tour is perfect for anyone looking to combine scenic views, light adventure, and a taste of the famous Princes Islands—all in a single, well-organized day. It suits travelers of all ages, especially families or groups who want a fun, active day with minimal planning.

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Key Points

Scenic boat ride: Enjoy panoramic views of Istanbul from the water, with commentary and music onboard.
Relaxing beach and aquapark: Access to a well-maintained water park with slides, pools, sun loungers, and lockers.
Convenient logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off included for hassle-free planning.
Cost-effective: At $71, this experience offers a balanced mix of sightseeing and fun activities.
Limited time at the park: Around 4 hours of aquapark access, which some might find a bit short.
Great for families and groups: Plenty of water-based activities suitable for kids and adults alike.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Trip in Detail

Looking for more options in Istanbul? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Start: Pickup and Boarding

The day begins early with a hotel pickup, typically between 8:00 and 9:15 am. The comfortable transfer makes the start relaxed and stress-free. You’ll be driven to the Dentur Avrasya Pier in Kabatas, where a friendly team welcomes you, setting the tone for a smooth journey. The boat itself is described as comfortable and well-maintained, creating a pleasant environment for the hours ahead.

The Boat Ride: Views and Vibes

Departure around 9:45 am kicks off the cruise across the Sea of Marmara. Expect a lively atmosphere with live commentary and music, making the 1-hour trip pass quickly. Many travelers appreciate the chance to see Istanbul from the water—an angle often missed when exploring on land. The boat ride isn’t just transportation; it’s part of the experience, with the chance to snap photos of the Bosphorus skyline, distant minarets, and maybe even catching sight of passing ferries.

Arrival at Heybeliada & Aquapark

At approximately 10:45 am, you arrive at Heybeliada, one of the most popular Princes Islands. Here, the highlight for most is the aquapark, which boasts multiple water slides, pools, and a beach area. Reviewers like Cristina have described the beach as clean and well-maintained, with plenty of options for all ages. The water park offers sun loungers, umbrellas, lockers, and shower facilities, making it easy to relax and enjoy your time.

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The Aquapark Experience

Expect a fun-filled few hours with plenty of water-based activities. The slides are described as large portions, so you don’t need to worry about the little ones going hungry. The atmosphere is friendly, with staff attentive and professional—adding to the overall comfort. While the trip is praised for being relaxing and scenic, some reviews mention the short duration—around four hours for the aquapark—so plan your time accordingly.

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Return Journey and Sunset Views

After your aquapark adventure, the boat departs back around 4 pm. The return trip offers gorgeous views of Istanbul’s skyline bathed in the golden hues of sunset. Many reviews highlight the stunning scenery and the chance to enjoy the calm waters as the boat sails towards Ahirkapi Pier. The lively music and commentary continue, maintaining a festive environment until you arrive.

Hotel Drop-Off and Final Thoughts

Arriving back in Istanbul around 5 to 6 pm, the transfer takes you straight to your hotel. You’ll walk away with memories of a day filled with sun, sea, and smiles—whether from the water park, the scenic cruise, or the shared laughter onboard.

Practical Tips for Your Day

Bring swimwear and sunscreen — the sun can be intense, and you’ll want to enjoy the water comfortably.
The price doesn’t include food or drinks, so consider packing snacks or planning for a meal afterward.
The tour offers multilingual guides in English and Russian, making it accessible for many travelers.
Keep in mind the shorter time at the aquapark—if you’re eager for a full day of swimming, this might feel rushed.
For flexibility, you can reserve and pay later or cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Based on reviews, guides are praised for their knowledgeable assistance and friendly attitude. Cristina, who called it an “excellent choice,” appreciated the well-maintained boat and relaxing atmosphere. Others, like Jazemin, recommend the water park as a perfect change of pace, especially with children, noting the generous portions and fun environment.

One reviewer, Matute Soto, pointed out that weather can impact the experience, noting grey skies and a shortened visit, so weather planning might be wise. Still, even with such hiccups, most found the overall experience enjoyable and well-organized.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic sailing, lively water park fun, and relaxed beach time, all within a manageable timeframe. It’s ideal for travelers who want to experience the Princes Islands without the hassle of planning their own transport, and for those craving a mix of sightseeing and active play. The $71 price point provides excellent value, considering the included transfers, aquapark entry, and scenic cruise.

If you’re traveling with kids or in a group seeking a lively, outdoor outing, this tour fits the bill beautifully. Even those looking for a romantic escape or a quick city break will find the views and atmosphere captivating. Just remember, the aquapark’s time window is limited, so plan your expectations accordingly.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transfer from and to your hotel, making it a convenient option.

What is the duration of the trip?
From pickup to drop-off, expect a full day, roughly from 8 am to 6 pm, including boat rides, aquapark time, and transfers.

Do I need to bring my own water gear?
It’s recommended to bring swimwear and sunscreen for comfort and protection during the water park and beach time.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something at the aquapark.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Russian, providing helpful commentary and assistance throughout the tour.

Is the water park suitable for children?
Yes, Cristina mentioned it has plenty of slides and pools for all ages, making it family-friendly.

How long is the aquapark access?
Approximately four hours, which some might find a bit short, especially if weather conditions limit outdoor activities.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding flexibility to your plans.

What should I expect in terms of scenery?
Expect stunning views of Istanbul from the water, especially at sunset, along with a lively boat atmosphere and scenic island vistas.

Overall, the Istanbul Princess Island Swimming Tour and Aquapark offers a lively, scenic, and fun-filled escape perfect for making the most of a day in Turkey. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both, this experience delivers a satisfying slice of island life with the convenience of organized transport and guided commentary.