Akçay–Lesvos Ferry Services Start on July 19, 2026
The start date for the long-awaited direct sea route between Akçay, a popular resort in the Gulf of Edremit, and Lesvos (Mytilini), Greece's largest island in the North Aegean, has been announced. The first voyage will take place on July 19, 2026; the route will be operated by BADO – Balıkesir Deniz Otobüsleri. For reservations and information, you can call 0850 307 8010.
The route carries passengers only and will operate with a special summer season schedule. With ministry approvals completed (Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure and Ministry of Trade/Customs), the route opens a new direct gateway to the Greek islands for Gulf of Edremit tourism.
Schedule and Departure Days
The first voyage is on July 19, 2026. Exact sailing days and departure times will be updated on this page as they are announced by the operator (BADO). You can confirm the current schedule by calling 0850 307 8010. For detailed information and updates, follow our Akçay–Lesvos ferry guide.
Services Offered on the Route
- Fast and safe sea transport (passengers)
- Gate visa opportunity — Lesvos is included in the gate visa program for Turkish citizens
- Car rental support
- Travel health insurance
- e-SIM (international internet) service
Visa and Passport
Lesvos is part of Greece and the Schengen Area. A gate visa is available for Turkish citizens for short tourist visits to the island; since the crossing is an international maritime border, a valid passport (at least 6 months from arrival) is mandatory. For details, you can check the Greek Islands gate visa guide.
Akçay Port and Lesvos
Akçay is a popular holiday resort on the northern coast of the gulf, affiliated with the Edremit district of Balıkesir; it is easily accessible by road from İzmir, Çanakkale, and Balıkesir. On the opposite shore, Lesvos is an authentic destination known for its olive oil, ouzo, the town of Molyvos, and its petrified forest. For a current alternative from the Gulf of Edremit to Lesvos, you can also consider the Ayvalık–Lesvos route.
Duration and distance values are estimated; they will be updated with the actual schedule when the route opens.