Tekirdağ - Avşa Island Ferry Route
Operating between Tekirdağ Ceyport Port and Avşa Island in both directions, this route is the fastest way to reach Avşa directly from the Thrace region. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes (210 minutes). The operator is Marmara RoRo Kooperatifi.
Avşa Island is the Sea of Marmara's most renowned holiday and nightlife destination. With its viticulture, vineyards, Avşa wines, blue waters, and lively seaside restaurants, it is a favorite among summer vacationers, especially those departing from Istanbul, Bursa, and Thrace. The Tekirdağ-Avşa route is strategic for Thracians looking to bypass Istanbul's heavy traffic.
Journey Duration and Distance
- Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes (210 minutes)
- Type: Mixed (passenger + vehicle + RO-RO cargo)
- Operator: Marmara RoRo Kooperatifi
- Season: Daily in summer, 2-3 times a week during winter months
Which Vehicles Are Suitable?
The route can accommodate all vehicle types. Although Avşa is a small island, having a vehicle during the holiday season allows you to freely explore between Yiğitler village, Türkeli, Mavi Koy, and Altın Kum beaches. Avşa is also a popular destination for caravans and motorcycles.
Estimated Ticket Price Range
- Passenger: 290-450 TL
- Car: 1,400-2,200 TL
- Motorcycle: 480-750 TL
- Caravan: 2,900-5,000 TL
- AdaKart Discount: 10-25%
About Avşa Island
Avşa is a small but vibrant island (approximately 20.5 km²). The island's highlights include:
- Türkeli (Avşa) center: Pier area, seaside restaurants, nightclubs
- Yiğitler village: Quiet seafood restaurants, authentic fishing town
- Altın Kum beach: The island's widest sandy beach, blue-flagged
- Mavi Koy: Shallow and crystal-clear water, ideal for families
- Avşa vineyards: Small-scale wineries of local producers
- Monastery ruins: Stone structures from the Byzantine era
- Windmill and iconic photo spots
AdaKart System
For those who own a summer house or pension on Avşa, or who visit the island regularly, the AdaKart provides significant advantages. It offers a 10-25% discount on passenger and vehicle tickets, quota priority, and fast access for online reservations during the summer months. Card applications are made at the cooperative ticket offices in Erdek or Tekirdağ.
Seasonal Considerations
Summer Peak (June-August): Avşa is the busiest island in the Marmara due to its nightlife and beaches. For Friday evening departures from Tekirdağ, book at least 14 days in advance. Public holiday periods sell out 4-5 weeks ahead.
Off-Season (October-May): The route remains active, but the frequency drops to 2-3 days a week. The number of open hotels and restaurants on Avşa decreases significantly in winter; only a limited number of businesses used by locals remain open.
Alternative Routes
- Avşa - Erdek (60 min) — Fast connection via the South Marmara
- Tekirdağ - Marmara (195 min) — Marmara Island alternative
- Fast ferries departing from Istanbul Yenikapı (direct to Avşa, summer season only)
Onboard Comfort
During the 3-hour and 30-minute crossing, the passenger lounge is air-conditioned, the open observation deck is spacious, and the buffet offers hot food and beverages. On summer Friday evening departures, the ship is fully booked; boarding 30 minutes early for a seat is recommended. The evening ferry results in a night arrival on Avşa; plan your hotel transfer accordingly.
Practical RO-RO Information
- Queue number: Obtained at the port entrance.
- Caravan parking: There is a large parking area around the pier on Avşa, and marked camping areas along the coast.
- Fuel: There are 1-2 gas stations on the island; petrol and diesel are available, but there is no LPG.
- Ticket refunds: 100% refund for cancellations made 24 hours in advance, 50% thereafter.