Rhodes - Marmaris Ferry Guide 2026
The maritime route between Rhodes, the largest of Greece's Dodecanese islands, and Marmaris, one of Turkey's premier tourism hubs, is one of the most strategic connections linking the two shores of the Aegean Sea. The Rhodes - Marmaris ferry route is heavily used both by tourists entering Turkey via Europe and by Turkish citizens visiting the Greek islands with a Schengen or gate visa. Operated by Yeşil Marmaris and other regional operators using high-speed catamaran passenger ferries, these crossings reduce international border transit to the speed of a standard urban commute. As of 2026, updated customs infrastructure and port procedures have transformed this 24-kilometer sea voyage into a seamless transit corridor.
Journey Duration and Distance
The nautical distance between Rhodes (Akandia or Mandraki Port) and Marmaris Pier (Marmaris Cruise Port) is exactly 24.0 kilometers (approximately 13 nautical miles). Thanks to the passenger-only high-speed catamarans serving this route, the journey takes a net duration of 50 minutes. Since there is no land connection between the two points, sea travel is the sole and most efficient alternative. It is important to note that customs and passport control procedures are not included in this time calculation. Although the sailing time is 50 minutes, waiting times at the ports must be added to your total travel planning as international waters are crossed.
Schedules and Timetables
The frequency of crossings on the Rhodes - Marmaris route changes radically according to the dynamics of the tourism season. During the summer season (April - October), multiple daily reciprocal voyages are organized. Two main operators stand out, particularly on the Rhodes-Marmaris return route. In the summer months, there are regular departures from Mandraki Port by Yeşil Marmaris at 16:00 and by Sea Star Rhodes at 18:00. In the winter months (November - March), due to a drop in passenger demand, services are reduced to 3 days a week. Operators increase capacity by adding extra sailings during official holidays and festive periods. Before planning your trip, it is crucial to check the current ferry schedules here so you are not affected by potential timetable changes.
Tickets and Fares
Ticket pricing on this route is divided into two main categories: one-way and round-trip (open or dated). Round-trip tickets offer a more economical structure compared to purchasing two separate one-way tickets. Ticket prices include the port taxes applied by both countries. While only a nominal port tax is generally charged for infants aged 0-4, a discounted fare is applied for children aged 5-12. Student or over-65 discounts are generally not valid on international routes. Although you can purchase your tickets at the port ticket offices, buying them online will save you time, considering the high occupancy rates during the summer months. For price comparisons across all routes and current fares, you can review our Ferry Prices page.
About Rhodes (Akandia/Mandraki) Port Pier
Ferries heading to Turkey from Rhodes generally depart from two ports: Akandia and Mandraki. High-speed catamarans belonging to companies like Yeşil Marmaris and Sea Star Rhodes mainly depart from the outer quay of Mandraki Port, where the historic deer statues are located. The port is just a 10-15 minute walk from the center of Rhodes Old Town. Around the port, there are paid and free parking areas, waiting lounges, and duty-free shops. Passport control during exit procedures from Greece takes an average of 25 minutes. However, in July and August, this duration may extend as passengers from other routes, such as Fethiye - Rhodes, will also be at the port during the same time slot. To reach the port, you can use KTEL buses departing from within the island or take a taxi.
About Marmaris Pier
The docking point for ferries in Marmaris is the customs area of Marmaris Cruise Port (Marmaris Port Operations), located on the road to Günnücek National Park. Situated right next to Marmaris Marina, this pier is approximately 1.5 kilometers from the district center. After completing your passport and customs procedures and exiting the port, you can head to the city center using the taxis waiting right at the gate or the minibuses (dolmuş) accessible via a short walk. For passengers using airline connections, there is direct transportation available to Dalaman Airport (approx. 90 km) via MUTTAŞ or HAVAŞ buses departing from the Marmaris bus terminal. Inside the port, there is a cafeteria, a currency exchange office, and car rental agencies.
What to Do in Muğla?
Passengers crossing from Rhodes to Marmaris are at a perfect starting point to explore the unique geography of Muğla. For those wishing to spend time in the region after exiting Marmaris Pier, here are some route suggestions: The first stop is the historic Marmaris Castle, restored during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent, and the Hafsa Sultan Caravanserai, both just a walking distance from the port. The castle offers a magnificent bay view. Secondly, you can head to Akyaka, 45 minutes from Marmaris, to take a boat tour on the Kadın Azmağı Stream and experience the cold waters of the Gulf of Gökova. A third alternative is the Datça Peninsula, known for its winding but scenic roads; the stone streets of Old Datça and the Ancient City of Knidos are ideal for history and nature enthusiasts. Finally, by driving about 1.5 hours from Marmaris to the Ortaca district, you can visit Dalyan to see the Kaunos King Tombs and visit the habitat of Caretta Caretta sea turtles at the world-famous İztuzu Beach.
Vehicle vs. Passenger Travel
The passenger ferries (catamarans) belonging to Yeşil Marmaris and Sea Star Rhodes serving the Rhodes - Marmaris route operate on a "passenger-only" status. As of 2026, vehicle crossings are not possible on this route. The main reason the travel time is reduced to a short timeframe like 50 minutes is that the vessels do not have a vehicle transport deck and are lightweight, high-speed boats. Passengers arriving in Marmaris with their private vehicles must leave their cars at paid parking lots around Marmaris Cruise Port, Marmaris Municipality parking areas, or private garages. Passengers needing a vehicle in Greece can utilize the services of international car rental companies upon disembarking at the Rhodes port. If you absolutely wish to make a Greek island crossing with a vehicle, you will need to consider car ferry alternatives departing from different ports.
Cancellations, Refunds, and Weather Conditions
The southern Aegean Sea is exposed to lodos (southwesterly) winds, especially in winter, and meltemi winds that strengthen in the afternoons during summer. High-speed catamarans may not receive departure clearance from the port in stormy weather due to navigational safety procedures. In the event of a voyage cancellation due to adverse weather conditions, passengers are issued a full refund of their ticket fare or their tickets are transferred to the next available sailing free of charge. It will be beneficial to check the sea water and wind forecasts from the General Directorate of Meteorology 24 hours before your travel plan. For real-time updates such as potential voyage cancellations, additional sailings, or changes in port taxes, you can follow our Current Announcements page.
Travel Tips
- Arriving Early at the Port: Since this is an international voyage, you must be present at the port at least 60-90 minutes before departure due to ticket control, check-in, customs, and passport procedures (passport control upon exiting Rhodes takes about 25 minutes).
- Visa Procedures: Turkish citizens holding a burgundy passport (Ordinary) must have a valid Schengen visa or a "Gate Visa" obtained in advance through agencies. Green passport holders are exempt from the visa but must pay the international departure fee.
- Seasickness: Although it is a short 50-minute distance, catamaran-type vessels can be affected by waves on windy days. If you are sensitive, you can use preventive tablets available at pharmacies before the journey.
- Luggage Rules: Because it is a passenger-only vessel, luggage is left on shared racks at the ship's entrance. While there are no strict weight limits like on airplanes, suitcases of a size you can carry yourself should be preferred. Attention must be paid to alcohol and tobacco limits in accordance with customs regulations.
- Cafeteria and Needs: There is a small kiosk inside the ferry selling water, tea, coffee, and snacks. Payments can generally be made in cash in Euros or Turkish Lira; credit card connections may be lost at sea.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many minutes does the Rhodes - Marmaris ferry take?
The 24-kilometer nautical distance between Rhodes and Marmaris takes an average of 50 minutes with high-speed passenger catamarans. Waiting times for customs and passport procedures are not included in this duration.
How long does passport control take at Rhodes port?
The control process at the Greek passport police when exiting from Rhodes Mandraki or Akandia ports takes an average of 25 minutes, depending on passenger density. This duration may extend during the summer months.
How many crossings are there a day on the Rhodes - Marmaris route?
During the summer season (April-October), regular daily crossings are operated by Yeşil Marmaris and Sea Star Rhodes; departures from Mandraki are generally available at 16:00 and 18:00. In the winter months, sailings drop to 3 days a week.
Can vehicles board the Rhodes - Marmaris ferry?
No, the ferries of Yeşil Marmaris and other operators serving this route are catamarans with only passenger-carrying capacity. Vehicle crossings are not possible.
Are Rhodes - Marmaris sailings canceled in adverse weather?
Yes, sailings can be canceled in situations that endanger navigational safety, such as severe storms, lodos winds, or dense fog in the Aegean Sea. In case of cancellation, passengers are provided with a full refund of the ticket fare.
For ferry options to other Greek islands from Turkey, you can review the Turkey-Greek Islands Ferry Guide 2026. The Çanakkale-Lemnos, Datça-Symi, Bodrum-Kos/Patmos, Marmaris-Rhodes/Symi, Kuşadası-Samos, Çeşme-Chios, Ayvalık/Aliağa-Lesvos, and Turgutreis-Kos/Patmos routes are listed comparatively on a single page.