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A ferry crossing on the Dalyan Canal in Mugla has become one of Türkiye's shortest routes, reducing a road journey that can stretch to up to two hours to as little as 50 seconds.
Operating since 2016, the small-scale ferry line connects Koycegiz and Ortaca across the world-famous Dalyan Canal, a narrow waterway known for its natural setting. Thanks to the short distance between the two banks, one line completes the trip in around 50 seconds, while the other takes about 1.5 minutes.
The service was first introduced to make it easier for residents of Candir, a neighborhood in Koycegiz, to get around, especially for farmers who needed a faster way to move between the two sides of the canal. Over time, the route also began to draw in visitors, turning into a transport option used by both locals and tourists.
Today, ferries run between the Dalyan neighborhood and Candir from early morning until midnight, offering a quick alternative to the much longer trip by road.
Run by the Dalyan Boat Cooperative, the ferries can carry up to four vehicles at a time. Cars, motorcycles, tractors and minibuses can all board, while pedestrians are also able to cross.
The route has helped ease transport pressure in the area, particularly during the busy summer season when tourist traffic picks up. With the system expanded over time and a second ferry line added, capacity has increased and emergency vehicles such as ambulances and fire trucks can now reach the opposite bank more quickly.
The ferry lines operate within a special environmental protection area, where environmental sensitivity remains a priority. Along the canal, reed beds, reflections on the water, bird sounds and the region's rich ecosystem turn the brief ride into more than a simple crossing.
The surrounding area is also home to ancient cities as well as lake and sea ecosystems, placing the ferry route within one of southwestern Türkiye's most distinctive natural and cultural landscapes.
Drivers using the service say it saves significant time compared with the road route and offers a fast and pleasant way to get across. For local residents, the line has become an essential part of daily life while also giving visitors a direct glimpse of Dalyan's natural character.
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