Fethiye To Marmaris Ferry: Seabus Guide

The Fethiye to Marmaris seabus is a fast, scenic alternative to the long coastal road journey between two of Turkey’s most popular summer resorts. Launched for the 2024 season and operated by IDO in partnership with local providers, this high-speed sea bus typically covers the route in around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on sea conditions.

For travelers visiting Turkey during peak summer months, it can be one of the most comfortable and time-efficient ways to combine both destinations in a single trip—whether as a day trip or part of a longer itinerary (when the route is operating).

Service Status Update: This route has not operated continuously since launch and has been paused in past seasons. Always check live availability on the IDO booking page before planning your day or transferring hotels.

For a long time, it was only possible to travel between Marmaris and Fethiye (or vice versa), two of Turkey’s most popular summer resorts, via road. And that road is long and not that interesting. It takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic, and buses can often get very busy indeed.

Put simply, it’s not the most appealing way to travel in the height of summer.

But there is another option worth knowing about!

Let’s dig deeper and find out the details.

Route	Operator	Typical Duration	Season	Departure Points
Fethiye – Marmaris	IDO Seabus	2.5–3 hours	Seasonal (When Operating)	Karagözler Marina / Marmaris Marina

Fethiye To Marmaris Seabus: Routes, Operator, And What To Expect

The services are run by IDO, a company that frequently provides ferry and sea bus services in the north of the country, especially around Istanbul. The service began on 2 July 2024, and schedules vary by date and season—so it’s a good idea to check before you plan your day.

Tickets are sold through the IDO website, and same-day availability depends on capacity. It’s best to book as far ahead as you can, so you can get a window seat and check out the amazing views.

Seabuses are large, multi-deck passenger vessels with airline-style seating. The ferries are very spacious and air-conditioned, with toilets and a small snack bar on the lower floor. As it’s a high-speed service, you can’t go outside, and obviously, it’s all non-smoking.

Depending on sea conditions, the journey typically takes between 2.5 and 3 hours. When you consider that it can take longer than that in a bus or car due to traffic and less comfortable conditions, it’s easy to see why the route attracted interest during peak season.

Schedules and operating dates can change during the season based on demand and weather conditions, so travelers should always confirm times close to departure.

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Fethiye To Marmaris Ferry Prices And Booking Rules

Ticket prices vary by date and demand and are displayed at booking on the IDO website. You can book your tickets on the IDO website and also book a return ticket. Return ticket rules vary by fare type and date and are confirmed during booking on the IDO website.

It’s a good idea to book ahead of time, as some services sell out pretty quickly, especially during the peak summer months.

Where To Catch The Fethiye–Marmaris Seabus

If you’re catching the ferry from Marmaris, you’ll need to go to the marina first. You can take a bus or a taxi, and then you’ll need to walk around 2 minutes to the port area. It’s well sign-posted, so you can’t go wrong. Just pass the ‘O-Yes’ restaurant and keep going just around the corner. It’s directly across from the castle.

If you’re leaving from Fethiye, you catch the ferry from Karagözler marina at the end of the jetty. This is the main marina in Fethiye, so you can’t go wrong.

Both services arrive and depart from these points only.

Fethiye To Marmaris Ferry Timetable And Day Trip Feasibility

It can be possible to do a day trip between both of these resorts when the sailing times line up. Timetables change by season and may not operate every year, so always verify live times on the IDO booking page before planning a day trip.

Marmaris To Fethiye

• Check live departure times on the IDO booking page (times vary by season and may not be operating).

** On certain days, there may be only one service, so always double-check. **

Fethiye To Marmaris

• Check live departure times on the IDO booking page (times vary by season and may not be operating).

Things To See & Do For The Day In Fethiye

If you’ve only got a few hours to explore Fethiye town itself, what should you do?

1. Explore The Old Town (Paspatur)

Start your visit in the vibrant Old Town known as Paspatur. Wander through the narrow streets lined with quaint shops, artisan boutiques, and lively cafes. This area is perfect for picking up unique souvenirs, from handmade jewelry to local handicrafts.

Don’t forget to bargain at the bazaars for some fun!

2. Visit The Fethiye Museum

Immerse yourself in the region’s rich history at the Fethiye Museum. It features an intriguing collection of artifacts from ancient Lycian civilization, Roman ruins, and Byzantine remains. It’s a great way to gain insight into the area’s cultural heritage in just a short visit.

3. Climb To The Lycian Rock Tombs

For a touch of adventure and stunning views, take a short hike up to the Lycian Rock Tombs that overlook the town. These ancient burial sites carved into the cliffs are not only fascinating to explore but also offer fantastic photo opportunities. The panoramic views of Fethiye and the sea are truly breathtaking.

4. Relax At The Marina

Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, watch the boats bobbing in the harbor, and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can grab a light bite or sip on a refreshing drink while enjoying the scenic views. Occasionally, marine life can be spotted along the waterfront.

5. Lunch At A Local Restaurant

Treat yourself to a delectable lunch at a local restaurant. Fethiye is known for its fresh seafood and traditional Turkish cuisine. Opt for a delicious meze platter, grilled fish, or döners paired with a glass of Yeni Rakı or some refreshing ayran to fully enjoy the local flavors.

Best Things To Do In Marmaris On A Day Trip

There’s a lot to see and do in Marmaris, but if you’ve only got a few hours, add these sights to your list.

1. Stroll On Marmaris Marina

Start your visit with a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Marmaris Marina. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and take in the sight of luxury yachts bobbing in the water. The marina is lined with charming cafés and restaurants where you can sip on a refreshing Turkish tea or coffee while soaking up the views.

2. Visit The Marmaris Museum

Head to the Marmaris Museum located inside Marmaris Castle. The museum showcases the region’s rich history, with exhibits ranging from ancient artifacts to traditional costumes. It’s a small but informative stop that gives insight into the local culture.

3. Explore The Old Town

Make your way to the Old Town (Eski Marmaris). Wander through the narrow, cobbled streets and soak in the quaint atmosphere. Here, you can discover local shops selling handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Be sure to visit the iconic Marmaris Castle, where you’ll find the ancient stone walls and views of the harbor.

4. Last-Minute Shopping

Before heading back, make sure to squeeze in a bit of shopping. Visit the local bazaars where you can find everything from spices and textiles to unique souvenirs. The vibrant colors and aromas are a feast for the senses!

5. Indulge In Local Delicacies

With your appetite growing, treat yourself to a delicious lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants. Don’t miss trying local specialties such as fresh seafood, gozleme (Turkish pancake), or a traditional meze platter.

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Perhaps An Overnight Stay?

If you choose to stay overnight (or perhaps even longer), avoid booking a return ticket until you’ve confirmed the fare rules during checkout. Some return options may be limited by date or fare type.

However, there is plenty to see and do in both of these areas and if you have extra time, you can relax a little more. Beautiful Oludeniz and Calis Beach are a short taxi drive away from Fethiye. The Blue Lagoon in Oludeniz is otherworldly, and you can also take a boat to Butterfly Valley.

In Marmaris, you can visit Icmeler Beach, which is around 10-15 minutes away by taxi. Turunc is another small resort just around the mountains from Icmeler, and you can enjoy the vibrant Marmaris nightlife with more comfort.

In either place, you won’t struggle to find somewhere to stay. There is plentiful accommodation during the summer months, and even in the winter months, a smaller selection of hotels and apartments remains open year-round.