The Cesme Chios ferry route operates year-round with three major ferry companies providing up to 24 crossings per week during peak summer season (June-September), connecting Turkey and Greece across a distance of 9 nautical miles (16 km). Journey times range from 17 minutes to 40 minutes, with ticket prices starting from €40.
This highly efficient international route offers the shortest crossing between Turkey and the Greek islands, with the fastest vessels completing the journey in just 17 minutes. Operated by Erturk Lines, Turyol and Sunrise Lines using modern high-speed catamarans and conventional ferries, the service accommodates both passengers and vehicles.
Both Cesme and Chios ports are located within walking distance of their respective town centers, making this route exceptionally convenient for day trips to explore Chios's unique attractions including UNESCO World Heritage sites and the world's only natural mastic gum production. Valid passports are required for all travelers, with Turkish citizens eligible for a simplified 7-day visa express program.
Primary Operators: The route is served by three main ferry companies: Turyol, Erturk Lines, and Sunrise Lines, each operating both high-speed catamarans and conventional ferries.
From June to September, there are about 24-39 weekly crossings, while from October to May, the route operates with around 3-4 sailings per week.
Services operate using both catamarans and conventional ferries with open decks, with catamarans offering faster journey times.
Nea Moni Monastery, Nea Moni Monastery (11th century UNESCO World Heritage Site), Pyrgi Village with Byzantine walls, Medieval Castle of Chios, Nea Moni monastery with fine mosaics, Chios Byzantine Museum.
Ferry services may be suspended during adverse weather conditions in the Aegean Sea, particularly during winter months, making schedule flexibility important for travelers.
| One Way | Daily Return | Round Trip | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | 40€ | 50€ | 50€ |
| Child | 30€ | 35€ | 35€ |
| Infant | 25€ | 25€ | 25€ |
Note: Infant age: 0-5, Child age: 6-12
| One Way | Daily Return | Round Trip | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | 40€ | 50€ | 50€ |
| Child | 30€ | 35€ | 35€ |
| Infant | 25€ | 25€ | 25€ |
Note: Infant age: 0-5, Child age: 6-12
| One Way | Daily Return | Round Trip | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | 30€ | 40€ | 50€ |
| Child | 25€ | 30€ | 35€ |
| Infant | 20€ | 20€ | 25€ |
Note: Infant age: 0-5, Child age: 6-12
| One Way | Daily Return | Round Trip | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | 40€ | 50€ | 50€ |
| Child | 30€ | 35€ | 35€ |
| Infant | 20€ | 20€ | 25€ |
Note: Infant age: 0-5, Child age: 6-12
Based on current ferry schedules, Chios has extensive ferry connections to numerous Greek islands. The island has two ports: the main port at Chios Town (on the eastern side) and the smaller Mesta port (on the western side).
Chios serves as an excellent hub for island hopping in the Eastern Aegean, with particularly good connections to nearby islands and less touristy destinations like Psara and Oinousses.
Ferries between Cesme and Chios run frequently throughout the year, with seasonal variations. During summer months (June-September), there are about 24 weekly crossings, while from October to May, the route operates with around 3 sailings per week.
The journey takes between 20 and 40 min, with high-speed options available. The fastest crossing is remarkably quick - The fastest ferry takes 17min, while on average, ferry trips last around 33min.
Cesme Chios ferry sailings typycally depart from Cesme at around 08:45. The last ferry leaves at 18:00. During summer season, there are typically daily departures at 08:30, 10:00, and 18:00 from 1 June 2025.
| One Way | Daily Return | Round Trip | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | 40€ | 50€ | 50€ |
| Child | 30€ | 35€ | 35€ |
| Infant | 20€ | 20€ | 25€ |
Note: Infant age: 0-5, Child age: 6-12
The ferry companies serving the route are Erturk Lines, Turyol and Sunrise Lines.
In order to travel from Cesme to Chios, you are advised to carry with you an ID or a valid passport. EU citizens can typically travel with just an ID card.
For Turkish citizens; Turkish citizens need Shengen visa to visit Chios, but they can now obtain a simplified, short-term visa specifically for visiting certain Greek islands, including Lesvos, Chios, Samos, Kos and Rhodes. This "visa express" program is available as a fast-track visa service, allows stays of up to 7 days.
Citizens from other countries should check specific visa requirements for Greece/Schengen area.
You are advised to arrive at least 1 hour before departure, which should be sufficient for passport control and boarding.
Once you’ve wandered through the mastic villages and medieval castles of Chios, the rest of the Aegean is waiting. We offer seamless connections to nearby islands, allowing you to easily extend your holiday. From the emerald landscapes of Samos to the vibrant streets of Kos, find your next destination below.
Birthplace of the mathematician Pythagoras, Samos is a lush, green island renowned for its sweet Muscat wine and impressive ancient ruins.
Discover the Heraion temple and the Tunnel of Eupalinos. Just a short, scenic ferry ride from the port of Kusadasi.
Known as the island of Hippocrates, Kos features a beautiful blend of ancient Greek ruins, crusader castles, and long, sandy beaches perfect for cycling.
Visit the Asklepion and the medieval Neratzia Castle. Easily accessible via regular ferry services from Bodrum and Turgutreis.
The largest Dodecanese island, home to a UNESCO medieval Old Town, Lindos Acropolis, and beautiful coastline reached from Marmaris.
Step into the Palace of the Grand Master and explore the ancient Acropolis of Lindos. Fast ferry connections from Marmaris.
Greece's most remote island gem, known for its colorful harbor, the spectacular Blue Grotto, and a peaceful, unspoiled atmosphere from Kas.
A peaceful 20-minute crossing from Kas. Perfect for swimming in turquoise waters and enjoying a car-free island escape.
Third-largest Greek island, celebrated for its olive groves, petrified forest, thermal springs, and rich literary heritage from Ayvalik.
Explore Molyvos Castle and the vibrant streets of Mytilene. Frequent departures from Ayvalik to Greece’s third-largest island.
The island of mastic, featuring UNESCO-protected medieval villages, striking geometric facades, and authentic Aegean charm from Cesme.
Visit UNESCO-protected mastic groves, the black pebble beach of Mavra Volia, and the historic Nea Moni Monastery. Daily ferries from Cesme.
