Fethiye sits at the head of a deep inlet sheltered by pine-covered mountains — a beautiful base for the Turkish Riviera. While Marmaris, 1.5 hours west, has the better-known and more frequent ferry to Rhodes, Fethiye does have a direct seasonal crossing that avoids the detour. The route is less frequent and the journey is longer, but for travellers who are firmly based in the Fethiye area, it is a straightforward way to add a Greek island to an Aegean itinerary.
Important note on frequency: The Fethiye–Rhodes crossing runs a few times per week in summer, not daily. This is in contrast to Marmaris–Rhodes (daily in season) and should factor into planning. Always confirm current sailings before committing to plans.
The Route
Departure port: Fethiye harbour (central Fethiye, the main gulet and ferry harbour) Arrival port: Rhodes Town harbour (Mandraki Harbour) Crossing time: approximately 2.5–3 hours Season: June to September (limited; not daily) Operators: Fethiye Lines, occasional seasonal operators
Schedules and Timetable
The Fethiye–Rhodes route operates on a restricted schedule compared to other Turkey–Greece crossings:
- June–September: Typically 2–4 sailings per week; early morning departure from Fethiye, late morning or early afternoon arrival in Rhodes
- October–May: No scheduled service
Because the schedule is limited, booking in advance is essential — you cannot rely on same-week availability in mid-summer. Check Fethiye Lines directly for the current sailing calendar each season.
Compared to Marmaris–Rhodes: If your plans allow a day trip to Marmaris (1.5 hours by bus from Fethiye, approximately ₺80–120), the Marmaris crossing is daily, 50 minutes, and usually less expensive. The Fethiye direct route makes most sense when you want to avoid an extra transit leg or are on a multi-day stay in Rhodes.
Ticket Prices
Approximate prices as of 2026:
| Ticket type | Approximate price |
|---|---|
| Return (adult) | ₺1,800–2,800 |
| One-way (adult) | ₺1,100–1,700 |
| Port taxes (if charged separately) | ₺50–150 (Turkish side); €5–10 (Greek side) |
The Fethiye–Rhodes crossing is more expensive than shorter routes, reflecting the longer sailing time and limited competition. Book as early as possible for summer travel.
Where to Buy Tickets
- Fethiye harbour: Fethiye Lines office on the waterfront
- Tour agents: Fethiye travel agencies sell tickets; some offer day trip packages with optional guided tours
- GetYourGuide: Browse Fethiye–Rhodes ferry and day trip options on GetYourGuide
Given the limited schedule, booking ahead is strongly recommended rather than attempting walk-up purchase.
What to Bring
- Passport — Rhodes is Greek territory in the Schengen Area
- Euros — Greece uses the euro; ATMs throughout Rhodes Town
- Travel snacks/water for the 2.5–3-hour crossing
- Sea sickness prevention if you are susceptible — the open water section of this crossing is longer than shorter routes
Departure Process
Arrive at Fethiye harbour at least 40 minutes before departure. Turkish exit formalities are handled at the terminal. On arrival at Mandraki Harbour in Rhodes, Greek border officials process arrivals at the port building.
Rhodes: What to Do
Rhodes rewards time — the medieval old city alone is a full day. For day-trippers arriving on the Fethiye morning ferry:
Rhodes Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site):
- Palace of the Grand Masters: The centrepiece of the Crusader fortifications. Entry approximately €8.
- Street of the Knights (Ippoton): The main medieval street leading down from the palace — one of the most intact medieval streetscapes in Europe.
- Archaeological Museum: In the Knights’ hospital building; contains excellent Dodecanese collections. Entry approximately €8.
- Old Town labyrinth: The residential streets behind the main tourist axis are quieter and have better-value restaurants.
Near Mandraki Harbour:
- The Colossus site: The entrance harbour piers topped with deer statues are where ancient tradition placed the Colossus of Rhodes (one of the Seven Wonders).
- Elli Beach: 10 minutes on foot; good swimming.
Given the 2.5–3-hour crossing each way, day-trippers arriving mid-morning have roughly 4–5 hours before needing to return to the harbour. Focusing on the old town — palace, main street, lunch — is the most practical approach.
For a fuller picture of what to do and where to stay on Rhodes, see The Greece Guides.
Is the Fethiye–Rhodes Ferry Right for You?
Choose Fethiye–Rhodes if:
- You are based in Fethiye for several days and do not plan to visit Marmaris
- You want a multi-night Rhodes stay and flexibility on the return leg
- You are combining with the blue cruise (gulet) network and the ferry fits logistically
Consider Marmaris–Rhodes instead if:
- You are making a day trip and want maximum time on Rhodes
- Schedule flexibility matters (daily vs. a few times per week)
- You are on a budget (Marmaris–Rhodes is typically cheaper)
See the full Turkey to Greek islands ferry overview for all five crossings. For tours in Fethiye and the surrounding area — boat trips, canyon hikes, paragliding at Ölüdeniz — browse Fethiye tours on GetYourGuide.