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Balıkesir, Marmara — Marmara
Ekinlik Port is the pier of Ekinlik, the smallest of the Marmara Islands. Ideal for those seeking tranquility with its fishing village atmosphere and untouched nature.
Located in the southwest of the Sea of Marmara, off the Kapıdağ Peninsula, Ekinlik Island is the smallest and most untouched member of the Marmara Islands archipelago. Its only connection to the mainland is through Ekinlik Port. Belonging to the Marmara district of Balıkesir province, this charming island is known for its structure free from concrete, its traditional fishing village atmosphere, and as a sanctuary for those seeking silence. Ekinlik Port is the beating heart of the island, a critical transportation hub where the basic needs of the locals are met and visitors take their first steps onto the island.
Unlike massive ferry terminals, the port has an intimate and functional structure that reflects the island's modest spirit. Serviced by various maritime operators, primarily GESTAŞ, throughout the year, this spot comes alive with increased tourism activity, especially in the summer months. In winter, it serves as the island's sole lifeline to the outside world. Ferries docking at Ekinlik Port carry not only passengers but also the island's essential food, health, and logistical supplies. Therefore, the port means much more to the people of Ekinlik than just a transportation hub.
Within the framework of general ferry regulations in Turkey, tickets for travel from Ekinlik Port are issued personally. Passengers can purchase their tickets from the ticket windows at the pier, online platforms, or via phone. Due to the island's limited capacity and scheduled ferry times, it is crucial for travelers, especially during the summer season, to book their tickets in advance.
Ekinlik Port is located at coordinates 40.5489000° North and 27.5378000° East, within the borders of Balıkesir province in the Marmara Region. Geographically, the island is situated between Avşa Island and Marmara Island. The port is built in a relatively sheltered bay against prevailing winds on the southeastern coast of the island. This strategic location allows ferries to dock more safely during the harsh lodos (southwesterly) and poyraz (northeasterly) winds of the Sea of Marmara.
The port area is directly integrated into the village center, the island's only settlement. The moment you step off the ferry, you find yourself in the village square, under centuries-old plane trees and among the warm-hearted islanders. Far from the chaos of other large ports in the Sea of Marmara, Ekinlik Port offers its passengers a peaceful welcome rather than a stressful terminal experience. Among All Ports in Turkey, it is perhaps one of the quietest and most intertwined with nature.
In terms of physical features, the port has both ramps for foot passengers to board and disembark safely, and a concrete structure with suitable depth for car ferries (Ro-Ro) to lower their ramps. However, since the island's surface area is very small, coming to Ekinlik by car is generally not preferred or recommended. Transportation within the island is provided entirely on foot or by bicycle.
Ekinlik Port is an important stop for ring services between the Marmara Islands and mainland connections. The South Marmara lines, operated especially by GESTAŞ, connect the island to Erdek, Avşa, and Marmara Island. While the number of voyages is increased during the summer schedule (May-September), the winter schedule (October-April) operates on a reduced program proportional to the decrease in the island's population.
The main ferry routes departing from and arriving at Ekinlik Port are:
Apart from these routes, you can visit our All Ferry Lines page to review all other maritime connections across Turkey and create alternative routes.
Since Ekinlik Port is located on an island, the first stage of reaching here requires getting to the connection points on the mainland (especially the Erdek district of Balıkesir). Balıkesir is in a very fortunate position in terms of Turkey's transportation networks.
By Air: Passengers coming from distant cities who want to reach Ekinlik Island as quickly as possible can use Balıkesir Koca Seyit Airport (Edremit). You can transfer to Erdek Port by renting a car or using transfer services from the airport. From Erdek, you can reach Ekinlik by ferry.
By Bus: There are regular bus services from almost every province in Turkey to Balıkesir city center and directly to the Bandırma and Erdek districts. Since the Erdek Bus Terminal is within walking distance of the ferry port, traveling by bus is a very practical option for Ekinlik passengers.
By Train and Fast Ferry (İDO): For passengers coming from Istanbul, the İDO Bandırma fast ferries departing from Yenikapı are the most comfortable option. After reaching Bandırma in about 2.5 hours, you can take the minibuses departing right from the port exit to reach Erdek Port in half an hour, and board the Ekinlik ferry from there. Additionally, for those coming from the direction of Izmir, it is possible to take the Blue Train (Mavi Tren) to Balıkesir city center and transfer to Erdek.
By Private Car: If you are traveling with your own vehicle, you can reach Erdek via Bursa, Izmir, or Çanakkale. However, since vehicle usage on Ekinlik Island is almost zero and the roads are not suitable for vehicle traffic, it is highly recommended that you leave your vehicle in the secure parking lots in Erdek and cross over to the island on foot.
Ekinlik Port does not have large shopping areas or complex terminal buildings like the giant ports in metropolises; its charm lies in its simplicity. However, there are minimum facilities to meet a passenger's basic needs.
Waiting Area and Cafe: Right next to the pier, there are village coffeehouses and small tea gardens where you can catch your breath while waiting for the ferry or when you first set foot on the island. Here, you can sip your tea facing the sea and enjoy freshly brewed coffee.
Ticket Services: There are ticket sales points at the port entrance that open close to departure times. However, considering the crowds during the summer months, it is always safer to buy your tickets online.
Parking: There is no organized parking area around the port. Since bringing vehicles to the island is discouraged except for mandatory service vehicles, the port square is left entirely for the use of pedestrians and islanders.
Wheelchair Accessibility: The port ramp is suitable for wheelchair use. The ship's crew provides necessary assistance to passengers with disabilities during boarding and disembarking.
Wi-Fi and Communication: Free Wi-Fi service may be available in some cafes around the port. The signal strength of GSM operators is generally sufficient across the island, but the signal may weaken in some blind spots.
When your path leads to Ekinlik Port, you have the opportunity to explore not only this small island but also the beauties in the immediate vicinity. The Marmara Islands region stands out with its natural and historical riches.
For a smooth ferry journey to Ekinlik Island, you need to pay attention to some important details. Inter-island transportation has different dynamics than mainland transportation.
First of all, the weather is very critical. The Sea of Marmara experiences lodos and poyraz storms, especially in the winter months. It is common to experience cancellations or schedule changes in Ekinlik voyages due to adverse weather conditions. Therefore, before your trip, you should definitely check our Current Announcements page to get information about the status of the schedules.
Transportation to the island is more frequent during the summer schedule (May-September), but ferries can be completely full during public holidays and weekends. Booking your tickets online rather than leaving it to the ticket window prevents your travel plans from being disrupted. To find out current travel costs and vehicle/passenger tariffs, you can review our Ferry Prices page.
Don't forget to take cash with you when going to the island. There are no ATMs or bank branches on Ekinlik, and some small businesses may not accept credit cards. Also, since there is no pharmacy on the island, you must bring any regular medications with you.
Can I take my car to Ekinlik Port by ferry?
Technically, vehicle transportation is carried out with Ro-Ro ferries, but the island's roads are very narrow and short. Bringing a vehicle for tourist purposes is both discouraged by the islanders and illogical since there is no area to drive. It is recommended to leave your car in Erdek.
Can I buy ferry tickets at the port?
Yes, it is possible to buy tickets from the ticket windows at the port or on board the ship. However, since capacity can fill up quickly in the summer months, it is highly recommended to buy your tickets online.
Are there daily ferry services to Ekinlik Island in winter?
During the winter schedule (October-April), the number of voyages is reduced. Usually, voyages connected to Erdek and Marmara Island are organized on certain days of the week. Cancellations may occur depending on weather conditions.
Are there food and beverage facilities at the port?
There are tea gardens, grocery stores, and a small restaurant/cafe in the village square right next to the port. You can meet your basic food and beverage needs here.
No active ferry services from this port.