Taşucu - Kyrenia Ferry Journey Overview
Taşucu Port, located in Silifke district of Mersin, is the busiest and most popular sea route between Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). Promising a pleasant sea journey across the blue waters of the Mediterranean, the Taşucu-Kyrenia ferry route remains the most preferred alternative for both foot passengers and those traveling with vehicles in 2026. Especially during the summer months, increased tourism activity, student exchanges, and commercial operations further enhance the importance of this route. If you plan to travel to Cyprus by ferry instead of plane, you can experience this unique journey by purchasing a Taşucu - Kyrenia ferry ticket.
If you need a broader perspective on Cyprus ferry services, we highly recommend checking out our Cyprus (TRNC) Ferry Guide 2026, where we evaluate all alternatives.
Akgünler Denizcilik: Express vs. Classic Ferry Difference
Sea transportation between Taşucu and Kyrenia has been provided for many years by Akgünler Denizcilik, one of the region's most established companies. There are two different vessel types you can choose from, depending on your needs and travel plans:
- Fast Ferry (Sea Bus): These sea buses, carrying only foot passengers, are ideal for those who want to minimize travel time. The journey from Taşucu to Kyrenia by fast ferry takes an average of 150 minutes (2.5 hours). Travel is in comfortable seats within enclosed passenger lounges.
- Classic Car Ferry (Ro-Ro / Night Ferry): This is the type of vessel passengers should use if they wish to travel to Cyprus with their own car, motorcycle, or caravan. With these slower ferries, the journey takes an average of 6 hours. It is also known as the "night ferry" as departures typically occur at night. Passengers can spend time in the onboard cafeteria and lounge areas. For general tips on traveling with a vehicle, you can review our Car Ferry 2026 Guide page.
2026 Schedule and Time Information
Services on the Taşucu-Kyrenia route continue uninterrupted throughout all 12 months of the year. However, frequency of departures varies depending on the season and passenger demand. Akgünler Denizcilik operates reciprocal services 4 days a week during standard periods, increasing to daily departures during the summer season.
Current departure times may change instantly due to adverse weather conditions or operational reasons. As exact and definitive departure times are not available in our database, it is critically important to confirm with the operator's official channels before finalizing your travel plans.
| Route | Operator | Duration (Fast / Car Ferry) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taşucu - Kyrenia | Akgünler Denizcilik | 2.5 Hours / 6 Hours | 4 days a week in Winter, Daily in Summer |
| Kyrenia - Taşucu | Akgünler Denizcilik | 2.5 Hours / 6 Hours | 4 days a week in Winter, Daily in Summer |
Note: For definitive departure times and real-time updates as of June 7, 2026, please contact Akgünler Denizcilik's official call center at +90 392 444 4364 or visit their official website for information.
Information on Ticket Prices
Ferry ticket prices vary according to the chosen vessel type (fast or car ferry), passenger category (adult, student, child), vehicle class (car, motorcycle, caravan), and the period of ticket purchase. As definitive and current ticket price data for 2026 is not available, to obtain the most accurate and transparent pricing information, you should check the ticketing screens or contact Akgünler Denizcilik directly (+90 392 444 4364).
To avoid missing out on early booking opportunities and discounts applied to round-trip ticket purchases, we recommend reserving your ticket as soon as your travel date is confirmed.
ID, Passport, and TRNC Entry Rules
For citizens of the Republic of Turkey, traveling to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is quite straightforward. There is no passport or visa requirement. However, there are some fundamental rules to be aware of:
- New Type Chip ID Card: Turkish citizens can enter the TRNC using only new type photo-bearing and chip-enabled ID cards. Old-style ID cards, driver's licenses, or institutional IDs are not valid.
- Infant and Child Passengers: Regardless of age (including infants), it is mandatory for children's ID cards to have a photograph. Children without photo IDs will not be permitted to depart. For more details on traveling with children, you can refer to our Ferry Travel with Children Guide.
- International Departure Fee: As the TRNC is considered an international destination, an international departure fee must be paid at the port or via digital channels beforehand.
- Entry with Passport: Citizens who wish to may also depart with their passports. However, having a TRNC entry stamp in your passport may lead to issues such as visa rejection or denial of entry during future potential travels to Greece or Southern Cyprus. Therefore, traveling with a chip-enabled ID card is the safest method.
Traveling to Cyprus by Car: Required Documents and Conditions
Exploring Cyprus with your own vehicle is the most liberating way to reach the island's hidden beaches and historical sites. Here are the documents you need to prepare when crossing from Taşucu by car ferry:
- Vehicle Registration Document: The vehicle's registration document must be presented at the border gate.
- Vehicle Ownership Status: If the vehicle is registered in your name, there is no issue. However, if the vehicle is registered in someone else's name, a notarized power of attorney from the owner is mandatory. For company vehicles, a circular of signature and power of attorney from company officials are required.
- TRNC Traffic Insurance: Standard Compulsory Traffic Insurance or Comprehensive Insurance obtained in Turkey is not valid within TRNC borders. Upon arrival at Kyrenia Port, you must obtain temporary traffic insurance valid in the TRNC from the insurance agencies at the customs gate (this process is quite quick).
- Customs Procedures: Passengers traveling with vehicles must be present at Taşucu Port at least 2-3 hours before the departure time to complete customs and passport procedures.
Return from Kyrenia: Kyrenia - Taşucu Ferry Services
At the end of your Cyprus holiday or business trip, you can use the same route to return to Turkey. By purchasing a Kyrenia - Taşucu ferry ticket, you can return with Akgünler Denizcilik vessels. For the return journey, both fast ferry (2.5 hours) and car ferry (6 hours) options are available. The service schedule is planned for 4 days a week in winter and daily during the summer months.
As Kyrenia Port can experience high traffic, especially in the evenings during summer, arriving early at the port for check-in and customs procedures will reduce your return stress.
Alternative Route: Mersin - Famagusta
For those seeking an alternative to the Taşucu-Kyrenia route or wishing to reach the eastern coasts of Cyprus directly, ferries departing from Mersin city center can be considered. The Mersin - Famagusta route is a strategic alternative, especially for commercial vehicles and passengers staying in the Famagusta region. Travel durations and service frequencies on this route may also differ compared to the Taşucu route.
Practical Tips for Your Ferry Journey
As the Taşucu-Kyrenia route crosses the open waters of the Mediterranean, weather conditions directly affect travel comfort. Fast ferries may experience more turbulence in windy weather. If you are prone to seasickness, it would be beneficial to consume light food before your journey and take any precautions your doctor might recommend. Additionally, on the 6-hour night ferries, bringing a light cardigan or shawl will prevent you from getting cold in air-conditioned environments.
