Taşucu - Kyrenia Ferry Route 2026 Overview

As the most important and frequently used maritime route from Turkey to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), the Taşucu - Kyrenia ferry crossings offer a pleasant journey across the Mediterranean, starting from the Silifke district of Mersin. As of 2026, Akgünler Denizcilik serves as the main operator on this strategic route. Operating continuously 12 months a year, these ferries host thousands of passengers and vehicles traveling for both tourism and commercial purposes.

Choosing the sea route over flying to Cyprus has many advantages. The Taşucu - Kyrenia route is an unrivaled alternative, especially for those who want to cross to the island with their own vehicle, travel with plenty of luggage without baggage restrictions, or simply experience a nostalgic sea voyage on the vast blue Mediterranean. For comprehensive planning, you can also review our Cyprus (TRNC) Ferry Guide 2026 page.

Fast Ferry or Classic Night Ferry?

To meet the diverse needs of passengers, Akgünler Denizcilik operates two different types of vessels on this route. You can choose either option based on your travel plans, budget, and vehicle status.

Express Travel with Fast Ferries (Sea Buses)

Accepting only foot passengers, fast ferries (catamaran-type sea buses) cover the distance between Taşucu and Kyrenia in a short time of around 150 minutes (2.5 hours). This option is ideal for passengers who want to reach the island quickly, do not have a vehicle, and have limited time. The journey on sea buses takes place in a closed lounge with numbered seats, offering comfort similar to an airplane. For safety reasons, passengers are generally not allowed on the open deck during the voyage.

Traditional Travel with Overnight Car Ferries

If you want to cross to the TRNC with your own car, motorcycle, or caravan, the classic car ferries are the option you should choose. Because these ships are larger and heavier, the journey takes an average of 6 hours. Usually scheduled at night (e.g., departing at midnight and arriving early in the morning), these crossings offer passengers the chance to breathe in the Mediterranean air on the ship's open decks and enjoy cafeteria services. For more information on the dynamics of traveling with a vehicle, check out our guide: 10 Practical Tips for Car Ferry Travel.

2026 Taşucu - Kyrenia Ferry Schedules and Timetables

The frequency of crossings on the Taşucu - Kyrenia route varies by season. During the standard winter and spring months, ferries operate 4 days a week, while in the summer season (June to September), crossings are made every day (daily) to meet the increased demand from tourists and expatriates.

Important Notice: In maritime operations, departure times and pricing can change instantly due to adverse weather conditions, port congestion, and seasonal strategies. Since there may be omissions or last-minute changes in the data, always check the operator's official channels for exact departure times, current ticket prices, and reservations. You can reach the Akgünler Denizcilik call center at +90 392 444 4364.

ID and Document Rules for Cyprus Ferry Travel

Traveling to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is highly practical for Turkish citizens, as no passport is required. However, there are vital rules to keep in mind:

• New Chip ID Card: Crossings can only be made with new-style, photo, and chip-enabled Turkish ID cards. Exiting with old-style ID cards or driver's licenses is strictly prohibited.
• Infant and Child Passengers: Regardless of age (including infants), all children must have a photo on their ID cards.
• Letter of Consent: Passengers under 18 who are not traveling with both parents (e.g., traveling only with their mother) must obtain a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent.

Customs and Insurance Details for Vehicle Crossings

If you are crossing to the TRNC with your own vehicle, you will need to go through customs at Taşucu Port. Having the vehicle registration in your name is the smoothest scenario. If the vehicle belongs to someone else, a company, or a bank (on credit), you must obtain a notarized international travel power of attorney from the vehicle owner.

Standard Traffic Insurance and Casco policies issued in Turkey are not valid within the borders of the TRNC. Therefore, upon arriving at Kyrenia Port, you must purchase mandatory traffic insurance valid in the TRNC for your vehicle at the customs gate. This process can be easily handled with cash or a credit card at the insurance booths located in the port. Additionally, if you are curious about onboard services while traveling with your vehicle, you can review our WiFi, Phone Charging, and Other Services on Board guide.

Check-in and Port Procedures

Since the Taşucu - Kyrenia route is an international maritime border crossing, a different procedure applies compared to domestic ferries. Passengers must be present at the port at least 2 hours before the departure time. This timeframe is critical for passengers with vehicles, as customs inspections, document checks, and vehicle boarding processes can take time.

Upon arriving at the port, you must first exchange your ticket for a boarding pass at the Akgünler Denizcilik check-in counter, then pay the international departure fee and pass through passport/ID control. Port taxes are usually included in the ticket price, but in some cases, an extra port landing fee may be requested at the counter, so it is best to be prepared.

Getting to Taşucu Port and Kyrenia City Center

Getting to Taşucu Port: You can easily reach Taşucu, located about 95 km from Mersin city center, via Silifke/Taşucu minibuses departing from the Mersin bus terminal. For passengers arriving by air from out of town, the nearest airport is Adana Şakirpaşa Airport. From the airport, you can take HAVAŞ shuttles to Mersin and then transfer to Taşucu.

From Kyrenia Port to the City Center: Ferries dock at the Kyrenia Tourism Port (New Port). The port is approximately 1.5 - 2 km from the Kyrenia bazaar and the historical Kyrenia Castle. You can easily reach the city center, Nicosia, or Famagusta by taking taxis waiting at the port exit or by walking to the main road to catch minibuses. For your return journey, don't forget to plan your Kyrenia - Taşucu crossings in advance and take advantage of benefits by buying a round-trip ticket.