The inaugural sailing on the Akçay – Lesvos route took place on July 19, 2026. The vessel Sinan Paşa, departing from the renovated Akçayport, initiated a direct sea link from the Gulf of Edremit to the Greek island. The route is operated by BADO – Balıkesir Deniz Otobüsleri, a subsidiary of Balıkesir Metropolitan Municipality.
Reopened as a Customs Gate After 27 Years
The true significance of this service lies with the port: Akçay Pier has reopened as a customs-controlled passenger gate after a comprehensive renovation and a 27-year hiatus. Until now, those wishing to travel from the Gulf of Edremit to Lesvos had to go via Ayvalık; with the opening of Akçayport, direct passage from the northern part of the gulf is now possible.
The Vessel Sinan Paşa
- Year built: 1996 (Class A passenger vessel)
- Passenger capacity: 449
- Dimensions: 40.1 meters long, 10.8 meters wide
- Maximum speed: 33.5 nautical miles
- Inspection: Received a full score in the 2024 Paris MoU port state control inspection
Sailing Times and Tickets
- Departure from Akçay: 07:30
- Return from Lesvos: 17:00
- Season: Until September 27, 2026
- Tickets: one-way 35 €, round-trip 45 €
- Port fees: not charged separately
- Route type: passenger-only (no vehicles carried)
Passengers presenting their tickets receive special rates at Balpark car parks, operated by Balıkesir Metropolitan Municipality.
Opening Delayed by Two Days
The route was initially scheduled to open on July 17, 2026; however, due to delays in permit and licensing procedures, the announced first-day sailing could not take place, inconveniencing ticket holders. The management of Balıkesir Public Transport Inc. described the situation as a "systemic issue". Services effectively commenced two days later, on July 19.
For current schedules and prices, please check our Akçay – Lesvos ferry services page, and for the return journey, consult the Lesvos – Akçay services. For other options in the gulf, you may also consider the Ayvalık – Lesvos route.