Şehir HatlarıA social media post by an Istanbul City Lines executive, themed "everyone should experience a ferry ride," sparked an outcry from citizens who use the Princes' Islands line daily due to overcrowding. Especially during summer months and on weekends, the extreme congestion on services like the Paşabahçe ferry once again brought to the forefront the transportation ordeal of Princes' Islands residents, met with reactions of "there's no standing room!"
"Ferry Romance" Call from a City Lines Executive
This situation stems from a comment made by Istanbul City Lines executive Güçlü Şeneler regarding Istanbul ferries. Şeneler's romantic and touristic call, stating, "No one in Istanbul should miss taking a City Lines ferry," did not align with the realities faced by local residents who rely on the Princes' Islands line for daily life.
"No Standing Room" Reaction from Princes' Islands Residents
A resident of the Princes' Islands, overwhelmed by the extreme congestion on the Princes' Islands line during summer months and on weekends, did not remain silent regarding the executive's comment. Sharing crowded images that pushed the legendary Paşabahçe ferry to its capacity limits, they responded to the official with the following words:
- "Friends, don't believe them. If that's the case, let them take a ride themselves, and we'll see."
- "Let them record it with their phone and share it; I'm curious to see that too."
- "Forget the phone or video, there's no standing room!"
In the photos and videos shared by the citizen, it was clearly visible that even in the early hours, the decks and interior spaces of the Paşabahçe ferry were completely covered by a flood of people, with passengers struggling to find space to step.
The Chronic Overcrowding Problem on the Princes' Islands Line
The Princes' Islands line is one of Istanbul's most popular routes, attracting an influx of local and foreign tourists, especially during the summer season. This intense interest has long turned into an ordeal for local residents who live on the islands and must use these ferries to get to work, school, or home. This reciprocal dialogue, which became a trending topic on social media, once again highlighted the chasm between Istanbul's "ferry romance" and the harsh realities of daily life.
Practical Guidance and Expectations for Passengers
Passengers planning to use the Princes' Islands line should be prepared to encounter extreme crowds, especially during peak periods like summer months and weekends. It should be remembered that ferries can reach full capacity even in the early hours. Checking Istanbul City Lines' official announcements and up-to-date schedule information before travel will be beneficial to prevent potential inconveniences.
Calls for Solutions
Other social media users who watched the footage also sided with the Princes' Islands resident, stating that instead of making invitations on social media, authorities should find an urgent solution to this congestion by increasing the number of services.