Boating on Lake Balaton: choose ferry, excursion boat, and harbour

The ferry between Szántód and Tihany is a crossing, not a circular cruise.

Excursion boats run differently depending on the season, route and weather.

For a relaxed day, harbour location and the last return trip matter more than a long ride.

BAHART publishes current departures, fares and operating information.

The BAHART ferry is the right choice for crossing between Szántód and Tihany. An excursion boat is the better option when the harbour and the journey itself are part of the day. Current routes and departures are listed by BAHART; outside the main season or during weather warnings, check especially carefully.

Start, if possible, from the town where you are staying. The town pages for Siófok, Balatonfüred and Keszthely help you find accommodation with short walks to the harbour and back. If you still want to go into town, to the beach or to the station afterwards, plan that leg before you set off.

Check the departure point, ticket rules, weather and the last return trip on the same day. If you are combining your trip with the train, MÁV can help with onward travel; for an outing with a clear time buffer, day trips on Lake Balaton are a good fit.

For matching the activity with the right place, route and return journey, the Balaton cycle route guide and the Getting to Balaton guide offer useful planning details.

Is there a ferry from Siófok to Balatonfüred?

The regular ferry crossing runs between Szántód and Tihany. Other boat services need to be checked in the current BAHART timetable.

Can I take a car on the ferry?

BAHART sets the current conditions and fares. These should be checked directly with the operator before departure.

When do excursion boats run?

That depends on the season, route and weather. The current timetable for the specific travel day is authoritative.