Autumn Brings New Ferry Timetable to Lake Balaton, Offering Peaceful, Scenic Boat Rides Through October

As summer comes to a close, Lake Balaton experiences a shift in both the number of visitors and the demand for ferry services. To reflect this seasonal change, the Balaton Shipping Company (BAHART) has announced adjustments to its ferry timetable. The reduced frequency of boat services during the autumn period will accommodate fewer travelers, while still offering an excellent opportunity to explore the tranquil beauty of Hungary’s largest lake.

The new timetable, which will be in effect from September 8 through October 26, 2025, will see significant reductions in ferry departures. The decision reflects the lower demand for ferry services as the high tourist season winds down. Though the changes may affect service availability, the fall season on Lake Balaton offers a unique and peaceful opportunity to experience the region’s natural beauty.

Reduced Frequency on Major Routes

The two busiest ferry routes—Fonyód-Badacsony and Siófok-Tihany-Balatonfüred—will continue to operate daily until September 28. After that date, these services will be available only on weekends. However, during the long weekend from October 23 to October 26, ferries will operate as usual, ensuring that visitors during this period can still enjoy convenient travel options.

Apart from these two primary routes, ferry services will also be available on weekends from several other popular ports, including:

• Balatonföldvár
• Balatonlelle
• Balatonboglár
• Balatonmáriafürdő
• Balatongyörök
• Szigliget
• Révfülöp

For travelers hoping to explore the quieter corners of Lake Balaton, these additional services offer great opportunities for scenic trips. The ferries will run every 30 minutes between 7:00 AM and 9:00 PM from Szántód and between 7:15 AM and 9:15 PM from Tihany, maintaining accessibility for those eager to experience the serene beauty of the lake in the fall.

Why Visit Lake Balaton in Autumn?

While summer remains the peak season for tourism at Lake Balaton, autumn has its own charm that many travelers find even more appealing. The area is less crowded, allowing visitors to enjoy a more relaxed experience without the hustle and bustle of the summer months. The vibrant colors of autumn foliage along the shores create a picturesque backdrop, making boat trips across the lake especially memorable during this season.

For nature lovers and those seeking tranquility, autumn offers the perfect time to visit. The area’s famous vineyards, orchards, and forests are particularly stunning as they transform with the changing seasons. Whether you’re looking to explore the quieter towns around the lake or simply enjoy the scenic beauty from a ferry, autumn provides a refreshing contrast to the busy summer period.

Passenger Growth and Fleet Upgrades

Despite the expected dip in demand during the autumn months, BAHART has reported impressive growth in passenger numbers over the past year. In 2024, over 2.3 million people traveled on the company’s ferry routes, surpassing the previous year’s record by 178,000 passengers. Among the various routes, the Fonyód-Badacsony line was the most popular, carrying over 250,000 passengers. Interestingly, the Balatonboglár-Révfülöp route saw the highest growth, with an increase of nearly 40% compared to the previous year.

The growing demand for ferry services at Lake Balaton is largely attributed to the continued development and modernization of BAHART’s fleet. Thanks to a government investment of HUF 6 billion (around EUR 15 million), the company was able to enhance its fleet in 2024. Two new ferries and two new catamarans were introduced, significantly improving service quality and capacity. Additionally, two refurbished cruise ships were inaugurated in May 2024, further upgrading the overall ferry experience for passengers.

Investing in Sustainable and Reliable Services

The fleet upgrades are part of BAHART’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality, sustainable, and reliable ferry services for both local residents and tourists. By investing in new vessels, the company is able to offer a more eco-friendly travel option across the lake. The new and refurbished vessels are designed to be more energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable, aligning with the global push for greener transportation alternatives.

BAHART’s efforts to modernize its fleet not only improve the passenger experience but also contribute to the long-term sustainability of transport across Lake Balaton. As part of Hungary’s broader commitment to environmental preservation and sustainable tourism, the company is investing in both infrastructure and technology that will support the region’s growth while minimizing its environmental footprint.

Plan Your Trip: Timetable and Ticket Information

For more information about the updated ferry timetable, including specific departure times and ticket prices, travelers are encouraged to visit the official BAHART website. Whether you are planning a short weekend getaway or a longer stay to enjoy the autumn landscape, the company’s website provides all the details necessary to plan your journey across Lake Balaton.

Even though the autumn months bring fewer travelers, the quieter period offers its own unique set of rewards. With fewer crowds and more affordable rates, now is the perfect time to explore Lake Balaton by boat and experience the beauty of Hungary’s most iconic lake in a whole new light.