The original SS Bandırma was built in 1878 in Paisley, Scotland, under the name SS Torocadell.
The ship was used for various transport roles before its historic 1919 voyage, including a period as a livestock carrier.
The replica was commissioned by the Samsun Metropolitan Municipality and opened to the public in 2003.
The ferry features a map room displaying the original navigation route taken through the Black Sea.
The ship is officially registered as a naval museum and maintained by the Samsun Municipality.
Exhibits inside include personal effects and clothing replicas belonging to the crew that accompanied Atatürk.
The Bandırma Ferry Museum is a full-scale replica of the steamer that transported Mustafa Kemal Atatürk from Istanbul to Samsun on May 19, 1919, marking the start of the Turkish War of Independence. Located within the Doğu Park recreation area, the vessel serves as a floating museum documenting this pivotal historical journey. The ship's interior showcases wax figures of Atatürk and his comrades, historical documents, and period-appropriate nautical equipment. Visitors walk through the original cargo hold and captain's quarters, which have been restored to reflect their 1919 state. Outside the ship, the surrounding park grounds feature monuments and displays dedicated to national liberation history. The ferry sits permanently anchored in a concrete berth, surrounded by landscaped gardens. It is the most significant historical site in Samsun, directly linked to the genesis of modern Turkey.
The bow of the ship from the park pier provides a clear view of the entire hull and its historical markings.
Allocate time to explore the surrounding Doğu Park, which offers walking paths along the Black Sea coast.
Visit on a weekday to avoid peak crowds from school groups and local tourists.
Read the historical placards near the entrance before boarding to better contextualize the ship's layout.
Attempting to climb onto the exterior deck railings or touching the fragile, glass-cased historical displays.
Open daily throughout the year; occasionally closed for maintenance on specific national holidays.
Maintain a respectful tone; avoid loud conversation while inside the cabin areas.
