Advantages of Renting a Yacht to the Princes Islands in Istanbul

Princes' Islands: Istanbul's Hidden Paradise

Located in the Sea of Marmara, just a few nautical miles from the Istanbul coast, the Princes' Islands (Adalar in Turkish) offer a perfect refuge for those seeking to escape the chaotic pace of the city. These nine islands—four of which are inhabited—transport visitors to a different era, where time moves slower, traffic noise is replaced by birdsong, and the air is sweet with pine and sea salt.

The four main islands—Büyükada (Big Island), Heybeliada (Saddlebag Island), Burgazada (Fortress Island), and Kınalıada (Henna Island)—attract local and foreign visitors throughout the year, but experiencing them by private yacht transforms a simple island visit into an extraordinary adventure.

Why Choose a Yacht to Visit the Princes' Islands?

Freedom and Flexibility: Create Your Own Schedule

Going to the islands by yacht offers unique advantages compared to the regular ferries or sea buses that shuttle thousands of day-trippers:

• Create your own schedule: Stay as long as you want on any island without watching the clock for the last ferry
• Escape the crowds: Arrive before the ferries or visit when the day-trippers have left
• Discover hidden coves: Access beaches and swimming spots where public ferries never stop
• Private swimming breaks: Anchor in crystal-clear waters for a refreshing swim whenever you want
• Multi-island flexibility: Easily visit two or three islands in a single day
• Direct routes: No stopping at every pier; go straight to your destination

Comfort and Luxury: Travel in Style

Leave behind the discomforts of crowded public transport:

• Air-conditioned interiors: Spacious, climate-controlled salons for the journey
• Private facilities: Clean, private toilet and shower facilities
• Quiet and peaceful sailing: No announcements, no crowds, no stress
• Your choice of food and drinks: Bring your own or arrange catering
• Music and entertainment freedom: Play your playlist, not whatever's on the ferry TV
• Comfortable seating: Lounge on deck or relax inside—your choice
• Storage for belongings: Secure space for beach gear, cameras, and shopping

A More Impressive Arrival

There is something undeniably special about arriving at an island pier aboard a gleaming yacht. Whether for a special celebration or simply to treat yourself, arriving by private yacht sets the tone for an exceptional day.

Island by Island Discovery Guide

Büyükada - The Crown Jewel

The largest and most popular of the islands, Büyükada offers the most to see and do:

Top Attractions

• Aya Yorgi Church and Monastery: A hilltop pilgrimage site with stunning panoramic views. The climb through pine forests is rewarded with one of the best vistas in the entire Istanbul region
• Historic Victorian mansions: Grand wooden houses from the Ottoman era line the streets, many beautifully preserved. Look for the famous Splendid Palace Hotel
• Dilburnu Beach: The island's main swimming beach with clear waters and facilities
• Clock Tower Square: The charming center of island life, perfect for people-watching
• Horse-drawn carriages: The iconic phaeton rides (when available, as regulations change)

Yacht Advantage on Büyükada

By yacht, you can anchor at quieter spots around the island, avoiding the crowded main pier. We know several beautiful coves perfect for swimming before or after exploring on foot.

Heybeliada - The Green Island

The second-largest island stands out with its extensive green cover and calmer atmosphere:

Top Attractions

• Halki Theological School: The historic Greek Orthodox seminary perched dramatically on the island's highest point. Though closed since 1971, its magnificent building and gardens can be viewed from the road
• Değirmenburnu (Windmill Point): A beautiful peninsula ideal for swimming and picnics, with a small beach and clear waters
• Çam Limanı (Pine Harbor): A natural harbor and popular yacht anchorage surrounded by pine forests
• Turkish Naval Academy: Historic military school (exterior viewing only)

Why Yacht Visitors Love Heybeliada

The protected natural harbors make Heybeliada particularly appealing for yacht visitors. The island feels less commercial than Büyükada, with a more authentic local atmosphere.

Burgazada - The Peaceful Escape

Smaller and quieter than its neighbors, Burgazada offers an authentic island experience:

• Kalpazankaya Restaurant: A legendary waterfront spot for fresh fish
• Sait Faik Museum: The former home of Turkey's beloved short story writer
• Beautiful swimming spots: Less crowded beaches than the larger islands
• Charming village atmosphere: Narrow streets, local characters, genuine island life

Kınalıada - The Closest Island

The nearest island to Istanbul is also the smallest of the four inhabited islands:

• Armenian heritage: A significant Armenian community with beautiful churches
• Rocky coastline: Dramatic swimming spots for the adventurous
• Quick escape: Being closest to the city, it's perfect for shorter trips
• Local character: Fewer tourists mean a more genuine experience

Swimming and Beach Time

One of the greatest advantages of visiting by yacht is the swimming opportunities. The waters around the Princes' Islands are significantly cleaner than those closer to Istanbul, with visibility often exceeding 5-10 meters.

Best Swimming Spots

• Between islands: The waters between Büyükada and Heybeliada offer excellent swimming
• Çam Limanı: The pine-fringed bay on Heybeliada
• Dilburnu: Büyükada's main beach area
• Secret coves: Our captains know numerous hidden spots away from crowds

What We Provide for Swimming

SU Yachts can equip your island cruise with:

• Snorkeling equipment (masks, snorkels, fins)
• Swimming platform and ladder
• Floating toys and equipment
• Fresh water shower
• Towels (on request)

The Perfect Princes' Islands Day by Yacht

Here is a sample itinerary for an unforgettable island experience:

• 09:00 - Departure: Leave from your chosen embarkation point
• 10:00 - First swimming stop: Anchor in a secluded cove for morning swim
• 11:30 - Arrive Büyükada: Explore the island, visit Aya Yorgi, or stroll the streets
• 13:30 - Lunch on board or ashore: Fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant or catered lunch on the yacht
• 15:00 - Sail to Heybeliada: Second swimming stop en route
• 16:00 - Explore Heybeliada: Visit Çam Limanı or walk the island
• 17:30 - Return cruise: Leisurely sail back to Istanbul as the sun sets
• 19:00 - Arrival: Return to the city refreshed and happy

This itinerary can be customized based on your interests and preferences. We can focus more on swimming, add wine service for the return trip, or include a yacht breakfast for an earlier start.

SU Yachts Princes' Islands Packages

We offer comprehensive Princes' Islands tour packages including:

• Experienced captain and crew: Who know the islands intimately
• Swimming equipment: Snorkel sets, fins, and floating toys
• Optional catering service: From light snacks to full meals
• Photography guidance: Best spots and times for stunning photos
• Flexible schedule: Customize the itinerary to your preferences
• Combination options: Pair your island trip with a dinner cruise on return

Best Time to Visit

The Princes' Islands are beautiful year-round, but each season offers a different experience:

• Spring (April-May): Flowers blooming, pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
• Summer (June-August): Perfect swimming weather, vibrant atmosphere, book early
• Fall (September-October): Golden light, warm seas, peaceful ambiance
• Winter (November-March): Quiet and authentic, no swimming but uniquely atmospheric

Conclusion

Visiting the Princes' Islands by yacht transforms an ordinary ferry journey into an unforgettable luxury experience. The freedom to create your own schedule, the comfort of private facilities, the joy of swimming in secluded coves, and the pleasure of arriving in style—these advantages make yacht rental the superior choice for island exploration.

If you want to experience freedom, comfort, and a passion for discovery together, a private yacht to the Princes' Islands is the right choice. Let the SU Yachts team plan your perfect island adventure.

Check our island tour prices and book your Princes' Islands yacht experience for an escape you will never forget.