Bursa Metropolitan Municipality, continuing its efforts to highlight Bursa’s coastal city features and ensure it receives its deserved share from tourism, is taking necessary steps to enhance passenger comfort and urban transportation integration in sea transportation. In this context, a significant change has been made to BUDO’s Istanbul services, operated by BURULAŞ General Directorate. The Istanbul docking point for services operating on the Mudanya-Eminönü-Sirkeci line will be changed to Kabataş Transfer Center starting from January 1, 2026.
Enhanced Accessibility and Integration
With this change, BUDO passengers will be able to access Istanbul’s main transportation axes much faster and easier. Thanks to the Kabataş Transfer Center, which is at the intersection of metro, tram, funicular, and sea transportation lines, access to important centers such as Taksim, Karaköy, Eminönü, Sultanahmet, Beşiktaş, Üsküdar, and Kadıköy will be possible from a single point. Access to the city center will be provided within minutes via the Kabataş-Taksim Funicular Line, while uninterrupted transportation to the Historical Peninsula will be possible via the Bağcılar-Kabataş tram line. Additionally, connections to the Bosphorus line and the Anatolian Side will be facilitated with city lines and sea motor services.
Bursa Mayor Emphasizes Improved Travel Experience
Bursa Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Mustafa Bozbey stated that they aim to shorten travel time and increase comfort for passengers by integrating sea travel with land transportation. He emphasized that the Kabataş Transfer Center, one of Istanbul’s most important transportation hubs, will play a critical role for BUDO services in line with this goal. Mayor Mustafa Bozbey announced that all BUDO Istanbul services will be carried out from Kabataş Transfer Center starting from Thursday, January 1, 2026, and asked passengers to plan their future travels considering this change.
New Era for BUDO Services
The relocation of BUDO’s Istanbul services to the Kabataş Transfer Center signifies a new era for sea transportation in the region. This strategic move is expected to significantly improve the travel experience for thousands of commuters and tourists, offering seamless connections to various parts of Istanbul. The integration of sea and land transport at a central hub like Kabataş is a testament to Bursa Metropolitan Municipality’s commitment to modernizing urban infrastructure and promoting sustainable tourism.
Impact on Passengers and Urban Connectivity
Passengers will benefit from reduced travel times and increased convenience, as Kabataş offers direct access to key urban areas through multiple public transport options. This change is particularly beneficial for those traveling to and from the historical and cultural heart of Istanbul, as well as the bustling business districts. The improved connectivity is also anticipated to boost tourism in Bursa by making it more accessible to visitors from Istanbul and beyond.
Future Outlook
The Bursa Metropolitan Municipality continues to invest in infrastructure projects that support both local residents and the tourism sector. The shift to Kabataş is part of a broader vision to enhance inter-city connectivity and streamline public transportation services. This initiative is expected to set a new standard for maritime passenger transport, aligning with modern urban planning and environmental considerations.
Source: https://www.denizhaber.net/budo-istanbul-seferlerinde-yeni-donem-basliyor-haber-122801.htm
