Gökçeada (Imbros) Ferry Guide: Schedules, Prices & Tips

The only way to set foot on Gökçeada (Imbros) is by sea. There's an airport, but no scheduled flights; no bridge, no tunnel. That's partly what makes this island an island — the moment you board the ferry at Kabatepe, the mainland's hustle starts to melt away. I feel it every time: as the engine hums and the ship pulls away from the dock, the tension in my shoulders dissolves. Those 75 minutes are part of the arrival.

Last winter, a strong northeasterly wind hit, and sailings were canceled for three days straight. Bread ran low at the market, and everyone waited for the next announcement. That's the reality of island life: the ferry isn't just transport — it's a lifeline. So when writing this guide, I focused less on touristy tips and more on practical info that will actually help you.

Kabatepe–Gökçeada Ferry Line: Basics

Operated by Gestaş (Gemi Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş.), the line runs between Kabatepe Port in Eceabat, Çanakkale, and Kuzu Port on Gökçeada. The distance is about 15 nautical miles, and under normal conditions the crossing takes between 1 hour 15 minutes and 1 hour 50 minutes. Times vary depending on sea conditions, wind direction, and the type of vessel — which happens often in winter.

Gestaş has 17 ships serving the Çanakkale Strait, Bozcaada, and Gökçeada routes. Large car ferries are usually assigned to the Gökçeada line. The ships have a cafeteria, indoor seating, and an open deck. Once, on an early morning sailing, I saw dolphins while drinking tea on deck — it doesn't happen every time, but when it does, the journey becomes something special.

Ferry Schedules: Winter vs. Summer

Winter Season (October–April)

In winter, the number of sailings drops significantly. There are 2 daily departures from Kabatepe at 09:00 and 21:00. From Gökçeada, departures are at 07:00 and 19:00. This means if you miss the morning sailing, you'll have to wait until 21:00. Islanders are used to this rhythm, but first-time visitors may find it surprising.

Summer Season (May–September)

In summer, the schedule changes completely. Sailings run every 2 hours — typically at 09:00, 11:00, 13:00, 15:00, 17:00, 19:00, and 21:00. Extra sailings may be added during holidays and peak season. But finding a ticket on summer weekends and holidays is genuinely difficult. The stories on Tripadvisor and social media about waiting in line for up to 10 hours are not exaggerated.

For up-to-date schedule info, check our Gökçeada ferry schedule page.

2026 Current Ferry Prices

Here's a critical detail that many people get wrong: Foot passenger tickets are round-trip, while vehicle tickets are one-way. So as a foot passenger, you can go and return with a single ticket, but if you're taking a vehicle, you need separate tickets for each direction.

You can see current prices, GestCard and Adakart discounted rates on our ferry schedule and prices page. Prices are updated periodically by Gestaş.

How to Buy Tickets

To buy tickets online, go to online.gdu.com.tr. Online purchases can be made up to 2 hours before departure; after that, only the ticket office sells them. Gestaş also has a mobile app. For frequent travelers, the GestCard contactless card system makes things easier. You can also buy tickets at the port with cash or credit card, but in summer, there are long lines at the ticket office.

A word of caution: be careful when making changes to online tickets. There are complaints about a 50% deduction for tickets mistakenly canceled. Double-check every step on the change screen.

How to Get to Kabatepe Port

Kabatepe, where the ferry departs, is a small port at the tip of the Gallipoli Peninsula, about 35 minutes from Eceabat. Getting there depends on where you're coming from:

• From Istanbul: Route via Tekirdağ – Keşan – Gelibolu – Eceabat – Kabatepe, about 350 km and 4-5 hours. Alternatively, in summer, Çanakkale Truva Turizm offers direct bus service including the ferry (7 hr 40 min, 1,100-1,400 TL).
• From Çanakkale: First take the Çanakkale–Eceabat ferry (25 min), then drive 35 min to Kabatepe. For those without a car, there are direct sea bus services from Çanakkale Port (foot passengers only).
• From İzmir: İzmir–Çanakkale is about 330 km, 5 hours. Then via Eceabat to Kabatepe.

Arrive at Kabatepe Port at least 30 minutes early. In summer and during holidays, I recommend making it 1 hour — the vehicle queue at the checkpoint can get long.

What to Do When You Arrive at Kuzu Port

Gökçeada's ferry port, Kuzu Port, is 7 km from the town center. Minibuses and taxis are waiting as you get off the ferry — they operate according to the sailings. The trip to the center takes 10-15 minutes. If you want to rent a car, there are a few options in the center, but I strongly recommend booking in advance in summer, as cars run out quickly.

For those coming without a car and wanting to explore the island, let me say this: Gökçeada is not flat, distances between villages are significant, and public transport is limited. It's worth considering at least a day's rental of a car or motorcycle. You can plan your route in advance using the island map.

Pet and Bicycle Rules

Attention travelers with dogs: dogs must be on a leash and muzzled, and can stay on deck or in designated open areas. Small pets like cats and birds can be carried in a carrier or cage in the passenger lounge. Leaving your pet alone in the vehicle is prohibited.

Regular bicycles can be carried with a foot passenger ticket at no extra charge. However, electric bicycles fall under the small motor vehicle category and incur a fee of 205 TL. The island is a great place to explore by bike on days when the weather is suitable — if you don't mind the hills. Also, if you're curious about Gökçeada's flora, check out Gökçeada's agriculture and organic products.

What to Do If the Ferry Is Canceled

In winter, when the northeasterly or southwesterly wind picks up, sailings can be canceled. This happens frequently in winter — 20-30 days a year when sailings are partially or fully disrupted. For cancellation info, there are three channels: Gestaş announcements page (gdu.com.tr/duyurular), social media accounts, and the call center at 444 0 752.

Remember that there is no alternative way to reach Gökçeada other than by sea. If canceled, you have no choice but to wait. So for winter trips, add a day of flexibility to your schedule. I've been stuck an extra day a few times when my return sailing was canceled — some fellow travelers were frustrated, but honestly, an extra day on the island isn't so bad.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Gökçeada ferry ride?

The Kabatepe–Kuzu Port crossing takes between 1 hour 15 minutes and 1 hour 50 minutes, depending on sea conditions, wind, and the vessel.

Is the ferry ticket round-trip or one-way?

Foot passenger tickets are round-trip; vehicle tickets are one-way. Prices are updated periodically — see the latest Normal, GestCard, and Adakart rates on our ferry schedule page.

When does online booking close?

You can buy tickets online at online.gdu.com.tr up to 2 hours before departure. After that, tickets are only sold at the port ticket office.

Is there a ferry from Bozcaada to Gökçeada?

No, there is no direct ferry between Bozcaada and Gökçeada. To travel between the two islands, you need to transfer via Çanakkale.

Does the ferry run in winter?

Yes, sailings run year-round. However, in winter, the frequency drops to 2 daily (Kabatepe at 09:00 and 21:00). Due to adverse weather, cancellations may occur 8-10 times a year, so I recommend flexible planning for winter travel.

If you need health services on Gökçeada, you can visit Gökçeada State Hospital. Also, if you're traveling without a car, it's helpful to check Gökçeada minibus schedules and transport. If your route takes you to Yenibademli, you can stay at Ali Baba Apart Pension.