Çeşme to Chios (Sakız) Ferry: 2026 Travel Guide

For the 2026 season, three operators run on the Çeşme to Chios route, each with different vessels and departure points. Ertürk Lines operates traditional car ferries year-round from the central Çeşme Port (Çeşme İskelesi), taking about 45 minutes. Sun Lines offers a summer-only passenger catamaran from the same central port, completing the crossing in a brisk 30 minutes. Finally, the newly introduced İDO Sun Express runs a passenger-only service taking 60 minutes, departing from Çeşme Ulusoy Port, located about 3 kilometers north of the town center. Always verify exact times with the operator before travel by calling +90 232 712 67 68, as schedules change with the weather and season.

Because this route crosses an international maritime border, port procedures require careful timing. You must arrive at your designated Turkish departure port at least 60 minutes before your scheduled departure for ticketing and passport control. During the peak summer months of July and August, arriving 90 minutes early is highly recommended to avoid the rush. Pay close attention to your ticket: Ertürk and Sun Lines passengers must head to the central Çeşme Port, while İDO Sun Express passengers need to go to Çeşme Ulusoy Port. Once at the terminal, you will clear Turkish exit immigration before boarding. Luggage is generally handled by the passengers themselves, with storage racks available on the lower decks of the ferries. Upon arriving at Sakız (Chios) Limanı, you will disembark directly into the heart of Chios Town, with cafes, car rentals, and the customs building immediately in front of you.

International travelers holding EU, UK, or US passports can enter Greece visa-free for short tourist stays. However, border rules vary depending on your nationality and direction of travel:

• Entering Turkey: Many nationalities (including EU citizens) enter visa-free, while others require an e-visa. Always check evisa.gov.tr.
• Entering Greece (Turkish Citizens): A valid Schengen visa is required, or you can use the special on-arrival door visa for Chios.

The door visa requires pre-application through an authorized agency, costs roughly 60-85 EUR, and is extended until April 2027. It is valid for 7 days only on the island of entry and does not permit travel to the Greek mainland. If you visit islands not on the approved list, such as Tilos, a full Schengen visa is strictly required.

Sakız (Chios) Limanı drops you right at the edge of the island's bustling capital. For a perfect day trip, start by exploring the 11th-century Chios Castle and wandering through the narrow alleys of the historic Ottoman and Jewish quarters. Grab a coffee at the waterfront before renting a car or taking a local bus south to the famous mastic villages, such as Mesta and Pyrgi, known for their unique geometric facades. If you prefer the beach, Karfas offers golden sands just a short drive from the port. For those planning an extensive island-hopping adventure along the Aegean coast, you might journey further south. If your travels take you toward Samos, remember the Kuşadası-Samos special routes: two distinct services exist there. You can take Meander Travel to Pythagorion, which takes about 60 minutes, or opt for Tilos Travel (Sea Star) to Vathy, taking just 35-40 minutes.