Gökçeada Port → Kabatepe PortFerry Schedule 2026 — Current Departure Times and Prices

Gökçeada Port to Kabatepe Port Ferry Guide

Connecting Turkey's largest island, Gökçeada (Imbros), to the mainland, the Gökçeada - Kabatepe ferry route is vital for both tourism and the daily life of locals. Experiencing a heavy influx of domestic and international tourists, especially during the summer months, public holidays, and weekends, this line is the island's only vehicle transport channel. Frequently chosen by nature enthusiasts, surfers, campers, and travelers eager to experience the island's unique atmosphere, this route also forms the backbone of the island's commercial supply chain. This journey through the cool waters of the North Aegean is more than just a means of transportation; it serves as a delightful beginning or a peaceful conclusion to your holiday.

Journey Duration and Distance

The nautical distance between Gökçeada (Kuzu Port) and Kabatepe Port on the Gallipoli Peninsula is approximately 30.0 kilometers. Operated by GESTAŞ Deniz Ulaşım with modern car ferries, this pleasant journey takes an average of 75 minutes under normal weather and sea conditions. Although the characteristically windy nature of the North Aegean Sea occasionally causes a choppy ride, the spacious and well-equipped ferries ensure a highly safe and comfortable trip. Stepping out onto the ferry's open deck during the voyage to watch the deep blue waters of the Gulf of Saros, the seagulls accompanying the ship, and the historic silhouette of the Gallipoli Peninsula slowly appearing on the horizon is one of the best parts of this route.

Ferry Schedules

Ferry schedules on the Gökçeada - Kabatepe route are dynamically adjusted according to seasonal density and passenger demand. During the winter months, crossings are scheduled less frequently, just enough to meet the island's basic transportation and logistical needs; however, they are increased with the opening of the summer season. Particularly during the high season and official holidays, continuous shuttle services or additional trips can be added from early morning until midnight. Morning departures are generally heavily used by those crossing from the island to the mainland for daily errands or travelers returning from their holidays, while evening departures are packed with locals returning to the island and newly arriving tourists. It is crucial to check the current timetable before planning your trip.

Ticket Prices and Reservation

This mixed route serves both foot passengers and those traveling with vehicles. Ticket pricing is categorized based on passenger type (adult, student, over 65) and vehicle class (motorcycle, car, SUV, caravan, bus). Citizens residing on the island can benefit from discounted crossings thanks to the Gestcard (Ada Kart) system offered by GESTAŞ. Tickets can be purchased with cash or credit card at the toll booths located at the Kabatepe and Gökçeada ports, or they can be obtained online via GESTAŞ's official website and mobile application. Considering the extreme congestion experienced especially during the summer months, making an online reservation and securing your ticket in advance is the most guaranteed way to avoid ticket queues that can last for hours.

Getting to the Ports

The departure point, Gökçeada Port, commonly known as Kuzu Port, is located approximately 7 kilometers from the island center. You can use regularly operating minibuses, municipal buses, or commercial taxis to reach the port from the island center. The arrival point, Kabatepe Port, is situated within the borders of the Eceabat district of Çanakkale, on the historic Gallipoli Peninsula. Passengers wishing to cross from Kabatepe Port to the Çanakkale provincial center can take a ferry from Eceabat to central Çanakkale or cross over using the Kilitbahir motorboats. Kabatepe Port features a large parking area, waiting lounges, cafeterias, and facilities to meet your hygiene needs. For passengers without private vehicles, there are minibus services from Kabatepe to the Eceabat center.

Traveling by Vehicle

Passengers traveling by vehicle on the Gökçeada route must be extra careful due to boarding procedures and heavy traffic. Arriving at the port at least 45-60 minutes before the ferry departure time is a standard rule to ensure your vehicle is safely loaded onto the ship. It is beneficial to extend this timeframe even further during the summer months and holidays. Vehicles with online reservations are generally granted a separate lane or priority boarding; therefore, it is important to follow the signs for reserved vehicles as you approach the toll booths. Vehicle stowage is carried out under the guidance of the ship's crew; obeying the crew's hand signals, checking your mirrors, and maintaining distance between vehicles while boarding and disembarking the ferry is essential for your safety.

Travel Tips

• Check the Weather Forecast: Since lodos (southwesterly) and poyraz (northeasterly) storms in the North Aegean can lead to voyage cancellations, be sure to check GESTAŞ announcements before setting off.
• Book Online: Purchase your ticket online days in advance to avoid waiting in long vehicle queues, especially during the summer season.
• Arrive Early: Even if you have a ticket, be at the port at least 1 hour before departure for boarding and vehicle loading procedures.
• Bring a Windbreaker: If you wish to get some sea air on the deck during the 75-minute journey, keep a light jacket with you for the Aegean Sea, which can be breezy even in summer.
• Prevent Seasickness: If you suffer from nausea in choppy weather, avoid heavy meals before the trip and take medication with a doctor's recommendation if necessary.
• The Gestcard Advantage: If you reside on the island or travel frequently, do not forget to apply for a Gestcard for discounted crossings.

Nearby Attractions

The moment you step foot at Kabatepe Port, you will be in the heart of the Gallipoli Historic National Park, one of Turkey's most important historical regions. Right after disembarking from the ferry, you can visit the Kabatepe Forest Camp and explore the Kabatepe Promotion Center and Museum, which reflects the epic history of the Gallipoli Campaign. Additionally, historical stops such as Anzac Cove, the 57th Infantry Regiment Memorial, and the Çanakkale Martyrs' Memorial are just a short drive away. Where history and nature intertwine, this region is a unique heritage waiting to be discovered after your ferry journey.