Ferries · Getting There
The Princes' Islands from Istanbul's Cruise Port
Docking at Galataport? The Princes' Islands make a doable independent day out — here's how to reach the ferry from the cruise terminal.
Key facts
- Cruise terminal
- Galataport (Karaköy)
- Nearest island ferry
- Kabataş or Eminönü
- To Büyükada
- ~75–100 min
- Fare
- ~₺135 İstanbulkart, per crossing
- Tip
- Watch the clock for all-aboard
From Galataport to the ferry
Istanbul's main cruise terminal, Galataport, sits in Karaköy. From there it's a short taxi or tram hop to a Princes' Islands ferry — easiest from Kabataş (a couple of T1 tram stops away) or Eminönü. Some private ferries also run from the Karaköy area.
Is it doable on a port day?
Only with a long call. The round-trip crossing alone is 2.5–3+ hours, plus your time on the island — so it suits ships in port for a full day, not a short stop. If your window is tight or you want zero risk of missing all-aboard, a guided tour that guarantees timing is the safer choice. See island tours →
On the ferry
Pay per crossing with an İstanbulkart, and give yourself a big buffer for the return. Full ferry guide →
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Yes, if your ship is in port for a full day — the round-trip ferry alone is 2.5–3+ hours. For a short call, or to guarantee timing, book a guided tour instead.
Galataport is in Karaköy; take the T1 tram or a short taxi to Kabataş or Eminönü, where the island ferries depart.
About 75–100 minutes each way to Büyükada from the European piers — factor that into your all-aboard time.
If your port day is long and relaxed, independent is fine and cheap. If timing is tight, a tour that guarantees your return to the ship is the safe option.
Ready for the islands?
Book a guided day trip with a boat cruise, free time on Büyükada and lunch.