Kabatas Pier → Büyükada PierFerry Schedule 2026 — Current Departure Times and Prices

Kabataş Pier - Büyükada Pier Ferry Guide

For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Istanbul's European Side and transition into the peaceful atmosphere of the Sea of Marmara, the Kabataş - Büyükada ferry route is one of the city's most important and nostalgic maritime transport lines. Attracting intense interest from both local and foreign tourists, especially in spring and summer, this route is flooded by day-trippers on weekends. Operated by Şehir Hatları, this line offers the opportunity to view Istanbul's historical texture from the sea while safely transporting passengers to Büyükada, the largest of the Princes' Islands. Students, nature enthusiasts, photographers, and Istanbulites wanting to escape the city's stress are among the main regulars of this route.

Journey Time and Distance

Reaching Büyükada Pier with the Şehir Hatları ferry departing from Kabataş Pier takes an average of 90 minutes. This 20.0 km long sea voyage is not just a means of transportation, but also a unique Bosphorus and Sea of Marmara tour. After leaving Kabataş, the ferry usually stops at Kadıköy, then Kınalıada, Burgazada, and Heybeliada respectively, before arriving at its final destination, Büyükada. During the journey, you have the chance to watch Istanbul's iconic landmarks such as the Historical Peninsula, Maiden's Tower, and Haydarpaşa Railway Station from the sea. Although sea conditions are generally calm, a slightly choppy ride may be experienced in winter months due to lodos (southwesterly) winds.

Ferry Schedules

Ferry schedules on the Kabataş - Büyükada line vary significantly according to summer and winter timetables. To meet the increasing passenger demand in the summer months, the frequency of voyages is quite high. There is a great density on weekends, towards the islands in the morning hours, and returning from the islands in the late afternoon and evening. In the winter months, the schedules are mostly arranged according to the commuting hours of the local population residing on the island, and the intervals are less frequent. Before planning your trip, it is highly recommended to check the current Şehir Hatları timetable and especially note down the return ferry time as soon as you arrive at the island.

Ticket Prices and Reservation

Since this route is operated by Şehir Hatları under the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, it is priced according to the standard urban maritime transport tariff. You do not need to buy a ticket in advance or make a reservation for the journey; you can easily pass through the turnstiles at the piers by scanning your Istanbulkart. Different price tariffs are applied for full, student, and discounted Istanbulkart holders. Because the Princes' Islands line covers a longer distance than normal inner-city ferry lines, the fare deducted from the Istanbulkart is slightly higher. It is also possible to buy a single-pass ticket (QR ticket) from the ticket machines located at the pier entrances.

Getting to the Piers

Kabataş Pier is one of Istanbul's most central transfer hubs. Being the last stop of the Bağcılar-Kabataş (T1) tram line, having a direct connection with the Funicular (F1) line departing from Taksim, and being on the route of many buses coming from the Beşiktaş direction makes access extremely easy. For those arriving by private vehicle, İSPARK or private parking options are available in and around Kabataş. Our destination, Büyükada Pier, is located right in the heart of the island. As soon as you step off the pier, you are greeted by the historical clock tower, bicycle rental shops, and cafes stretching along the coast. Since the use of motor vehicles is prohibited on the island, transportation after the pier is provided on foot, by bicycle, or by electric island buses.

Traveling with a Vehicle

As with all of the Princes' Islands, motor vehicle traffic is prohibited on Büyükada (except for official government vehicles). For this reason, the Şehir Hatları ferries serving the Kabataş - Büyükada route carry passengers only; there is no car ferry service. If you are coming with your private vehicle from a different part of Istanbul, you need to leave your car in the parking lots around Kabataş, Fındıklı, or Taksim. Since it can be difficult to find a parking spot on weekends, it is crucial to arrive at the pier at least an hour before the ferry time and sort out your parking.

Travel Tips

• Arrive Early: Especially on weekends and public holidays, be at the pier at least 30-40 minutes before the ferry time to be able to sit where you want (for example, on the open deck).
• Mind the Weather: During the 90-minute journey, the wind can get strong in the middle of the sea; even if you are traveling in summer, it will be useful to take a light cardigan with you.
• Feed the Seagulls: Keeping a simit or two with you to throw to the seagulls following the ferry is one of the most enjoyable rituals of this nostalgic journey.
• Return Plan: When you reach the island, the first thing to do is confirm the evening return ferry times from the board at the pier and set an alarm so you don't miss the last ferry.
• Comfortable Shoes: Büyükada is a place to be explored on foot or by bicycle; therefore, make sure to choose comfortable and orthopedic walking shoes.

Nearby Attractions

A rich historical and natural beauty awaits you when you land at Büyükada Pier. Aya Yorgi Church, located on the highest hill of the island and boasting a magnificent view, is one of the top must-see places. The Prinkipo Greek Orphanage, which is the largest wooden building in Europe, the Splendid Palace Hotel drawing attention with its magnificent architecture, the House of Reşat Nuri Güntekin, and the streets full of historical mansions are the main stops that will make your Büyükada trip unforgettable.