Ferries to Crete: A Complete Guide to the Greek Ferries
Tourists can get to Crete via ferry from mainland Greece and several nearby islands. The main routes connect Piraeus to the Port of Heraklion and the Port of Souda Bay. Seasonal ferries link Crete with Santorini, Paros, Naxos, Mykonos, Milos, Rhodes, Karpathos, Kythira, Kos, and other destinations. Ferry routes to Crete sail at least once daily to several times weekly, depending on the season and operator. The travel time ranges from 1 hour and 45 minutes to 16 hours and 30 minutes. Distances vary from 63 nautical miles (117 kilometers, 73 miles) to 210 nautical miles (389 kilometers, 242 miles). The cost of ferry tickets to Crete typically ranges from €20–€100 (£17–£85), depending on the route, vessel type, and travel season. Major routes operate year-round, though some island connections run seasonally.
Ferry schedules are generally reliable, though weather and demand may affect service. Ferry companies prioritize safety, with strict measures in place for passenger health and operational readiness. Tourists can book and compare Crete ferry tickets, operators, timetables, and prices using ferryhopper.com, directferries.com, letsferry.com or the operators’ own websites like hellenicseaways.gr , seajets.com and minoan.gr . Options include ferries with car transport, overnight cabins, and various onboard amenities. Ferry travel offers a convenient and enjoyable way to reach Crete.
What are the popular ferry routes to Crete?
The popular ferry routes to Crete link the island with mainland Greece and the surrounding islands. The Port of Heraklion receives regular boats from Piraeus, Athens’ primary port. This is the busiest and most frequent route to Crete. The port of Souda Bay, in Chania, has daily services to Piraeus. The port of Rethymno provides seasonal ferry services to Cycladic islands, according to operator schedules. Kissamos port, located in western Crete, connects to Kythira, Antikythira, and ports in the Peloponnese. The ports of Agios Nikolaos and Sitia, in eastern Crete, handle ferries to Piraeus and the Dodecanese islands, on a varied schedule. Smaller ferries run between southern Crete and nearby coastal towns in addition to these main routes. Ferries link Sougia, Sfakia, and Gavdos, serving local passengers and visitors along the southern coast and to the island of Gavdos. Crete Ports serve thousands of tourists and locals daily.
1. Athens to Crete
Ferries from Athens to Crete run year-round. Ferries depart from Piraeus, Athens’ principal port, toward Crete via two primary routes: Heraklion and Souda Bay near Chania. Each route sails generally once every day, with increased frequency during the summer. A typical passenger ticket costs between €36 and €70 (£31 to £60), depending on the vessel type and seating class. The ferry ride from Athens to Crete takes about 145 nautical miles (269 kilometers). The crossing lasts 8 to 10 hours, depending on the vessel. Travelers can view the real-time schedule and departure time on ferry booking platforms. Overnight boats between Athens and Crete are popular, with cabins available. Car ferries from Athens to Crete operate daily, allowing vehicles onboard.
2. Santorini to Crete
Seasonal boats from Santorini to Crete operate from April to October. The route connects Santorini’s port of Athinios to Crete via ferry, with arrivals at Heraklion. Ferries on this route run between once to three times every day during peak season, with both conventional and high-speed vessels operating. The price ranges from €45 to €85 (£38 to £72), depending on the vessel type and class. The distance between Santorini and Crete by ferry is 63 nautical miles (117 kilometers). Travel time ranges from 2 to 6 hours, depending on whether the ferry is conventional or high-speed. Passengers should check the real-time schedule for exact departure times, as services are provided every day. Car ferries from Santorini to Crete are available, but not all vessels provide vehicle transportation. There are no overnight ferries from Santorini to Crete on this short route.
3. Paros to Crete
Seasonal ferries from Paros to Crete operate between May and October. The route connects Paros’ principal port, Parikia, to Crete via ferry, with arrivals at Heraklion. This route is normally sailed twice to three times each week, using high-speed boats. The cost of this travel varies from €55 to €95 (£46 to £81), depending on the vessel and seating class. The distance to Crete from Paros by ferry is about 100 nautical miles, which equals 185 kilometers (115 miles). The crossing duration is 4 to 6 hours. Travelers should constantly check the real-time schedule for updated departure timings, as service days change. Some vehicle ferries from Paros to Crete run on this route, however, availability varies by operator. There are no overnight ferries from Paros to Crete due to the relatively short crossing time.
4. Milos to Crete
Ferries from Milos to Crete run regularly from late spring to early autumn. Ferries depart Adamas port in Milos for Crete, arriving at the Port of Heraklion. The route sails around once to twice a week, with more sailings during peak season. The ferry costs €50-€85 (£42-£72) depending on the vessel and ticket type. The distance between Milos and Crete by ferry is approximately 105 nautical miles (195 kilometers). The travel time is usually 5 to 7 hours. Passengers should refer to the real-time itinerary for the precise departure time and day of sailing. Selected services provide vehicle ferries from Milos to Crete. There are no overnight ferries from Milos to Crete, as crossings occur during daytime hours.
5. Mykonos to Crete
Ferries from Mykonos to Crete run seasonally from April through October. Boats set sail from Mykonos’ port of Tourlos toward Crete, arriving at the port of Heraklion. The route sails 2 to 4 times per week, which varies depending on the season and operator. A regular ticket costs between €60 and €100 (£50 to £85), depending on the vessel type and class. The distance to Crete from Mykonos by ferry is about 130 nautical miles (241 kilometers). The crossing takes 5 to 7 hours. Passengers should check the real-time schedule for up-to-date departure times. Some car ferries from Mykonos to Crete operate, though not all vessels offer vehicle transport. Overnight ferry trips from Mykonos to Crete are not available, as crossings run during the day.
6. Naxos to Crete
Seasonal ferries from Naxos to Crete run from late spring to early October. Ferries depart Naxos Town port for Crete, arriving at the Port of Heraklion. The route sails two to three times every week, depending on the operator and the month. The cost per person ranges from €50 to €90 (£42 to £76), depending on vessel type and seating. Crete is around 105 nautical miles or 194 kilometers (120 miles) away from Naxos by ferry. The trip lasts 4.5 to 6.5 hours. Travelers should check the real-time itinerary to confirm their exact departure time. Select vessels serve as vehicle ferries between Naxos and Crete. There are no overnight ferries from Naxos to Crete, since crossings are scheduled during daylight hours.
7. Rhodes to Crete
Regular ferries from Rhodes to Crete run all year, with extra sailings during the summer. Ferries depart from Rhodes to Crete, arriving at either Heraklion or Sitia. Depending on the season and operator, the route sails between one and two times every week. A regular ticket costs between €65 and €100 (£55 to £85), depending on the vessel and seating class. The boat ride from Rhodes to Crete is approximately 210 nautical miles (389 kilometers or 242 miles). The voyage usually takes 12 to 16 hours. Passengers should refer to the real-time schedule for an accurate departure time, as timings fluctuate by day. Car ferries from Rhodes to Crete operate on this route, and cabins are available. Some services function as overnight ferries from Rhodes to Crete, which often come with cabin accommodation.
8. Karpathos to Crete
Regular ferries from Karpathos to Crete are available throughout most of the year. Ferries depart from the main port of Pigadia in Karpathos to Crete by ferry, with arrivals at the port of Sitia and sometimes at the Port of Heraklion. The route sails approximately 1 to 2 times weekly, depending on the season. The cost for a passenger ticket is €50–€80 (£42–£68), varying by vessel and ticket class. The distance to Crete from Karpathos by ferry measures about 110 nautical miles, equal to 204 kilometers (127 miles). The crossing takes approximately 6 to 8 hours. Travelers should check the real-time schedule to confirm departure time and day of sailing. Car ferries from Karpathos to Crete are available. Some crossings operate as overnight ferries from Karpathos to Crete, depending on the schedule.
9. Kythira to Crete
Year-round ferries run from Kythira to Crete. Ferries depart from the port of Diakofti in Kythira for Crete, arriving at Kissamos. The route is normally sailed once or twice a week by conventional ferries. A passenger ticket costs €20-€35 (£17-£30), depending on the vessel and seating class. The distance to Crete from Kythira by ferry is about 75 nautical miles, or 139 kilometers (86 miles). The crossing takes 4 to 6 hours. Passengers should check real-time schedule to confirm the current departure time. Car ferries from Kythira to Crete operate regularly on this route. There are no overnight ferries from Kythira to Crete, as the trip duration does not require overnight travel.
10. Kos to Crete
Regular ferries operate from Kos to Crete, mainly during the tourist season from late spring to early autumn. Ferries depart from the main port of Kos Town to Crete by ferry, typically arriving at the port of Sitia or sometimes at the Port of Heraklion. The route sails approximately 1 to 2 times weekly, depending on season and operator. The cost for a standard ticket is €55–€90 (£46–£76), depending on vessel type and class. The distance to Crete from Kos by ferry is roughly 170 nautical miles, equal to 315 kilometers (196 miles). The crossing duration is 9 to 13 hours. Travelers should check real-time schedule to verify departure time and exact sailing days. Car ferries from Kos to Crete are available on this route. Some sailings operate as overnight ferries from Kos to Crete, with cabins for passengers.
How long does the ferry to Crete take?
A ferry trip to Crete takes between 1 hour and 45 minutes to 16 hours and 30 minutes. The actual time depends on a number of factors, including the route, ferry operator, and weather conditions. Shorter journeys, such as those from Santorini to Crete, range from 1 hour and 45 minutes to 6 hours. Longer journeys, like as those from Athens to Crete, take 8 to 10 hours, whereas ships from Rhodes to Crete can take up to 16 hours and 30 minutes. Travelers should always refer to the real-time itinerary for the exact departure time and anticipated journey duration on their preferred day.
How to get from Crete to Santorini?
Tourists can get from Crete to Santorini via ferry or airplane. Ferries are the most popular mode of transportation, originating from Heraklion and arriving at Santorini’s port of Athinios. During peak season, the route sails between one and three times a day. The voyage takes anywhere from 1 hour and 45 minutes to 6 hours, depending on the vessel type. Travelers can select between traditional ferries and high-speed vessels. Car ferries are available on select sailings, thus, travelers should check the real-time schedule to ensure the most recent departure time. The second option is to fly from Crete to Santorini. Direct flights depart from Heraklion International Airport and arrive at Santorini (Thira) International Airport. Flight duration is approximately 45 minutes. Flights are less frequent than ferries and may not operate daily. Travelers should compare both options based on schedule, cost, and personal preference.
You cannot take a rental car from Crete to Santorini without written permission from the rental company. Most Crete Car Rental contracts restrict ferry use and prohibit inter-island transport due to insurance limitations and liability concerns. Unauthorized ferrying voids coverage and breaches the rental agreement.
What are the costs of a ferry to Crete?
The costs of a ferry to Crete range from €20–€100 (£17–£85) for a standard passenger ticket. Several factors influence the ticket prices, like the route, ferry operator, vessel type and number of stops along the trip. The boat ticket cost is not necessarily determined by the length of the route. The speed of the vessel has a significant impact too, while high-speed boats are typically more expensive than traditional ferries.
Ferries with frequent stops may cost extra. For example, the ferry from Piraeus to Heraklion typically costs between €28 and €68 (£24–£58) for an economy deck ticket. Premium seating is available for an extra charge. Adding a cabin will further increase the fare. A two-bunk cabin without a window, but with a shower, may cost an additional €65 (£55) per person. Travelers should also consider seasonal pricing, as ticket costs are generally higher in summer. It is always best to check the real-time schedule and booking platforms for up-to-date pricing.
Do ferries to Crete run in the winter?
Yes, ferries to Crete run in the winter. Year-round services operate between Piraeus and Crete, with ferries sailing to the Port of Heraklion and the Port of Souda Bay near Chania. These routes sail approximately once daily, even in the off-season. Ferry travel remains essential for the island. The vehicle decks often carry commercial goods such as produce, olive oil, wine, and other products bound for the mainland, while supplies such as newspapers, milk, and clothing arrive in Crete.
Many residents, students, and business travelers rely on these ferries throughout the year in addition to freight. Routes from other islands near Crete, such as Santorini, Paros, Mykonos, Naxos, and Kos, generally do not operate in winter. Some mainland routes, such as Kythira to the port of Kissamos, run with reduced frequency. Ferry frequency and availability depend on the route, the ferry operator, and weather conditions. Winter weather may cause occasional delays or cancellations, and rougher seas may require passengers to be prepared for less stable crossings.
Are Crete boat trips fun for tourists?
Yes, Crete boat trips are absolutely fun for many travelers. These excursions promise a variety of experiences, depending on the chosen route and operator. Day cruises from Crete stop at nearby destinations such as Santorini, Gavdos, or the smaller islands along the southern coast. Short Crete boat trips from ports such as Sougia or Sfakia connect to beaches and coastal villages that are quite challenging to reach by land. Some operators offer glass-bottom boat tours, fishing trips, or sunset cruises from popular ports. The level of enjoyment depends on personal preferences, the season, and weather conditions.
How reliable is the ferry schedule to Crete?
The ferry schedule to Crete is quite reliable, especially on the major routes from Piraeus to the Port of Heraklion and the Port of Souda Bay. Major ferry operators maintain regular daily services on these routes year-round, although ferry schedules are subject to change due to several factors. These considerations include seasonal demand, maintenance needs, and unforeseen circumstances such as adverse weather conditions. Winter storms, in particular, may cause delays or cancellations. Inter-island routes and seasonal services from places like Santorini, Mykonos, and Naxos follow more variable schedules. Travelers should always check real-time schedules and the current departure time close to their travel date to ensure accurate planning.
Ferry travel to Crete is definitely safe. All ferry companies operating routes to Crete follow strict safety regulations at all times. Safety at sea is a top priority for Greek ferry operators, and crews maintain constant readiness for any emergency. The nation’s long maritime tradition places strong emphasis on the importance of operational safety. In addition, ferry companies have responded with professionalism to modern health concerns. Measures are enforced to protect passenger health, including the availability of ample hand sanitizer on board and the use of appropriate distancing measures when necessary. Travelers can expect both a safe and comfortable journey when taking the ferry to Crete.
Do rental companies in Crete allow ferry transport of their vehicles?
Most rental companies in Crete, including Rental Center Crete, prohibit ferry transport of their vehicles without prior written approval. Rental agreements typically include clauses restricting ferry use due to increased risk of damage, lack of insurance coverage on ferries, and difficulty in providing assistance on islands or remote ports. Unauthorized ferry transport may void insurance and breach the rental contract.
Insurance rules for ferrying rental cars in Greece require prior written permission from the rental company. Standard insurance policies exclude ferry transport unless explicitly authorized. Unauthorized ferry use voids coverage for damage, loss, or theft during transit or while on islands.
Greek rental insurance policies restrict ferry use to control liability, exclude marine risks, and limit service areas. Comprehensive or CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) coverage does not apply off mainland without specific consent. Additional fees or insurance extensions may be required for inter-island travel. Customers must confirm ferry permissions in advance.
Can I rent a car in Crete and drop it off on another island?
No, you cannot rent a car in Crete and drop it off on another island. Most rental companies prohibit inter-island drop-offs due to insurance restrictions, logistical challenges, and contract violations. Rental contracts typically require vehicle return to the original location or an approved site on the same island.
Rental policies enforce same-island returns to manage inventory, prevent vehicle loss, and ensure service availability. Cross-island drop-offs complicate tracking, recovery, and maintenance logistics. Insurance coverage usually does not extend beyond the designated rental area, and unauthorized drop-offs may incur penalties or void coverage.
There is usually a significant surcharge for taking a rental car on a ferry. Rental companies require prior approval and may charge additional fees to cover extended insurance, increased risk and ferry-related wear. The surcharge varies by provider and route, and unauthorized ferry use can void coverage entirely.
Renters cannot get full insurance coverage for ferry transport in Crete. Standard rental insurance policies exclude ferry travel. Even with permission, coverage may remain limited during transit or on other islands.
You need to show a valid ferry ticket, government-issued photo ID and vehicle registration documents at the ferry terminal. If driving a Crete car rental, you must also present the rental agreement and written authorization for ferry transport from the rental company.
Ferry terminal staff verify vehicle eligibility and passenger identity before boarding. For rental vehicles, missing authorization may result in boarding denial. Car ferry bookings must include the license plate number. Always carry physical or digital copies of all documents and confirm entry rules with both the ferry operator and rental company.
Where to buy ferry tickets to Crete?
Tourists can buy ferry tickets to Crete through several convenient options. The best way is to book and compare Crete ferry tickets online. Travelers can view operators, timetables, and prices by using platforms such as ferryhopper.com, directferries.com, or letsferry.com. Passengers can visit the operator’s websites directly for specific routes. Tickets and schedules for ferries from Sfakia to Loutro, Agia Roumeli, Sougia, Paleochora, Gavdos, Agia Galini, and Plakias are available at https://anendyk.gr.
Travelers can check https://www.minoan.gr, https://www.anek.gr/en, and https://www.superfast.com for Heraklion to Piraeus and Chania to Piraeus routes.
Routes and fares are listed on https://www.minoan.gr/ and https://www.seajets.com for ferries from Crete to Santorini, Paros, Naxos, Ios, Mykonos, and Milos. Tickets can also be purchased at local travel agencies or ferry offices located at ports such as the Port of Heraklion and the Port of Souda Bay. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
Published on June 7, 2025
