# BADO and a New Era in the Northern Aegean
Akçay, located on the coast of the Edremit Gulf in Balıkesir, is one of the region’s most important tourism centers. With its long coastline, the clean air of the Kaz Mountains, olive groves, and summer lifestyle, the area welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors every year, and in the summer of 2026 it is coming into the spotlight with an important transportation investment. The Akçay–Lesbos ferry services, planned to be operated by BADO (Balıkesir Sea Buses), aim to bring a fresh new dynamic to tourism in the Northern Aegean.
According to the announcements made, the services are planned to begin on 17 July 2026. Infrastructure suitable for international passenger transport, including customs, passport control, and port security, has been prepared at Akçay Port. In this way, Akçay is moving forward not only as a holiday resort, but also as a new maritime gateway to the island of Lesbos.
One of Akçay’s most important advantages is its location. Visitors staying in Edremit, Güre, Burhaniye, Altınoluk, Küçükkuyu, and the surrounding areas will now have an alternative to reach Lesbos without going to Ayvalık. This will both make transportation easier and bring vitality to the Gulf economy.
## Places to Visit in Akçay
### Akçay Beach
It is the symbol of the region with its palm trees, walking paths, and sunset views.
### Altınkum Beach
It is one of the beaches preferred by families with its fine sand and shallow sea.
### Zeytinli
It stands out with its festival culture, beach, and restaurants.
### Kızılkeçili
It is known for nature walks and cool spring waters at the foothills of the Kaz Mountains.
### Hasan Boğuldu and Sutüven Waterfall
These are among the most popular natural sightseeing spots in the region.
### Güre
It is known for its thermal facilities and olive oil culture.
### Altınoluk
It is worth seeing with its cobblestone streets and historical atmosphere.
## The BADO Akçay–Lesbos Line
The new line planned by BADO will directly connect the Edremit Gulf with Lesbos Island. Official timetables and ticket sales systems will be updated as they are announced by the operator. Passengers are advised to follow the latest schedules before making their travel plans.
## Visa on Arrival and Travel
The visa-on-arrival application for the Greek islands may be implemented periodically in accordance with the decisions of the relevant authorities. Passengers holding a Schengen visa can use the standard entry procedures. If the visa-on-arrival application is in effect, the required documents, application deadlines, and quotas should be followed through official announcements.
## What Awaits You in Lesbos?
Lesbos is an Aegean island famous for its historical and natural beauties such as Mytilene, Molyvos, Petra, and Plomari. With its stone architecture, seafood, ouzo culture, beaches, and peaceful lifestyle, it is an ideal destination for both day trips and longer stays.
## Conclusion
With the launch of the Akçay–Lesbos line, a new era of transportation will begin in the Northern Aegean. This project will not only connect two shores, but also strengthen tourism, trade, and cultural interaction. For up-to-date ferry information, ticket options, Lesbos tours, and travel planning, it will be useful to follow the latest developments through GuvenTravel.