Eceabat Ferry Terminal → Çanakkale PierFerry Schedule 2026 — Current Departure Times and Prices

Eceabat Pier to Çanakkale Pier Ferry Guide

Connecting the Asian and European continents across the cool waters of the Dardanelles, the ferry route between Eceabat Pier and Çanakkale Pier is one of Turkey's most critical and historic maritime transport networks. Operated by GESTAŞ Deniz Ulaşım, this line is heavily used by holidaymakers traveling down to the Aegean and Mediterranean via Thrace, as well as tourists visiting the historic Gallipoli Peninsula. It also serves as an indispensable bridge for locals crossing continents daily for work or education. Experiencing heavy traffic especially during the summer months, public holidays, and weekends, this route facilitates the travel experience by offering a safe, comfortable, and fast crossing.

Journey Time and Distance

The sea journey between Eceabat and the center of Çanakkale takes approximately 25 minutes. The distance between the two piers averages 3.5 kilometers (about 1.9 nautical miles). Although the unique currents and wind conditions of the Dardanelles can sometimes cause slight variations of a few minutes, crossings are highly stable and comfortable thanks to modern ferries. This short trip goes beyond being a mere means of transport; it is almost a mini Dardanelles tour. When you step onto the ferry deck, you have the opportunity to photograph the historic Kilitbahir Castle on the European side, the famous 'Dur Yolcu' (Stop, Wayfarer) memorial carved into the hills, and the unique skyline of Çanakkale. The cries of seagulls accompany your journey alongside the stunning sea views.

Departure Schedules

As one of the region's main arteries, the Eceabat-Çanakkale line operated by GESTAŞ generally runs on a principle of 24-hour uninterrupted service. While daytime departures are scheduled at very frequent intervals, the frequency decreases slightly from midnight until the early hours of the morning. Particularly during morning commutes and evening rush hours, ferries operate on a fill-and-go (ring) basis, minimizing waiting times. To clear the increased vehicle traffic during the summer season and public holidays, additional trips are added, and vessels cross the strait in continuous circulation without adhering strictly to the timetable. When planning your trip, it is helpful to keep in mind that adverse weather conditions (especially strong southwesterly winds, known as lodos) may disrupt services.

Ticket Prices and Reservation

Ticket pricing on this route is divided into different categories: foot passengers, motorcycles, cars, caravans, buses, and heavy goods vehicles. Extra fees are generally not charged for passengers inside the vehicles (excluding the driver); the vehicle ticket price covers the crossing. Foot passengers can pass through the turnstiles using tokens, tickets, or contactless credit cards. For frequently traveling locals, the 'Gestcard', a discounted payment card offered by GESTAŞ, provides a significant advantage. Tickets are usually purchased at the pier toll booths before departure using cash or a credit card. An advance online reservation system is not standardly applied for vehicle crossings on this line; a first-come, first-served rule applies.

Getting to the Piers

The departure point, Eceabat Pier, is located in the district center in the south of the Gallipoli Peninsula. For drivers arriving from the direction of Istanbul or Edirne via the D550 highway, signs direct you straight to the pier. Reaching the pier on foot within Eceabat is extremely easy; additionally, minibuses departing from surrounding villages and the battlefields bring passengers directly to the pier square. The arrival point, Çanakkale Pier, is situated right in the heart of the city at Cumhuriyet Square. The moment you step off the ferry, you enter the city's most vibrant streets, restaurants, and hotels. Çanakkale city buses (such as Ç8, Ç11) and taxi stands wait right at the exit of the pier. If you are not traveling with your vehicle, you can also choose to leave your car in the parking lots around the pier and cross as a foot passenger.

Traveling by Vehicle

Passengers traveling by vehicle are advised to arrive at the pier much earlier than their planned crossing time, especially on weekends, during summer months, and public holidays. Eceabat Pier has a large vehicle staging area (holding yard). After purchasing your ticket from the toll booths, you park your vehicle in the designated lane under the guidance of the staff and wait for your turn. During boarding, paying attention to the ramp incline and following the staff's hand signals is important for your safety. Once parked on the ferry, you must turn off your engine, engage the handbrake, and switch off your headlights for safety purposes. To prevent exhaust gas accumulation on the vehicle deck, running the engine during the journey is strictly prohibited.

Travel Tips

• Check the Weather: The Dardanelles is famous for its winds. Check if there is a lodos (southwesterly wind) warning before setting off.
• Bring a Windbreaker: Even in the summer months, the wind on the ferry's open deck will feel cool. Do not forget to bring a cardigan or windbreaker.
• Arrive Early: To avoid getting caught in vehicle queues that can stretch for kilometers during holiday periods, opt for early morning or late night hours.
• Feed the Seagulls: As a ritual of the strait crossing, you can feed the seagulls following the ferry with a simit (Turkish bagel) purchased from the pier.
• Use Contactless Payment: Use the contactless feature of your credit card to save time at foot passenger turnstiles and vehicle toll booths.
• Enjoy the View: Head to the upper deck to photograph the 'Dur Yolcu' memorial and Kilitbahir Castle from the best angle throughout the journey.

Nearby Attractions

When you set foot on Çanakkale Pier, the city's historical and cultural riches immediately welcome you. Located just a few minutes' walk from the pier, the famous Trojan Horse used in the Hollywood movie Troy is a highly photographed spot. The historic Çanakkale Clock Tower, one of the city's symbols, is located right behind the pier. If you want to buy local souvenirs and the famous cheese halva, the Aynalı Çarşı (Mirrored Bazaar), the subject of folk songs, is a short walk away. Furthermore, if you are interested in maritime history, Çimenlik Castle and the Naval Museum, located south of the pier, are among the must-see places at your destination.