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The cheapest and fastest ferries from Athens to Crete (Island)
Showing times and prices for 27 Nov
Cheapest price
£34
Average price
£45
Fastest journey
9 h
Average duration
9 h 15 m
Ferries per day
3
Distance
320 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap ferry ticket from Athens to Crete (Island) is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Athens to Crete (Island) will cost around £45 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap ferry tickets today for only £34.
Fast ferries
Of the 3 ferries that leave Athens for Crete (Island) every day 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu 27 Nov the direct ferries cover the 320 km distance in an average of 9 h 15 m but if you time it right, some ferries will get you there in just 9 h .
The slowest ferries will take 9 h 30 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
ASTERION II21:009h15
Port of Piraeus06:15Heraklion Port
£341One-way
0 changes
KNOSSOS PALACE21:009h30
Port of Piraeus06:30Heraklion Port
£451One-way
0 changes
BLUE STAR 122:009h00
Port of Piraeus07:00Port of Souda
£541One-way
0 changes
BLUE STAR 122:009h00
Port of Piraeus07:00Port of Souda
£541One-way
0 changes
ASTERION II21:009h15
Port of Piraeus06:15Heraklion Port
£341One-way
0 changes
KNOSSOS PALACE21:009h30
Port of Piraeus06:30Heraklion Port
£451One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare ferry and flight for Athens to Crete (Island)
Omio recommends booking the ferry as it is the most popular option from Athens to Crete (Island) among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the ferry with prices starting from £21. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 58m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the ferry is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a ferry costs an average of £21, and a flight costs an average of £39.
Distance: 172 nautical miles (320 km)
Compare ferry with
Most popular Ferry | Flight |
|---|---|
£32 Average Price Cheapest | £74 Average Price |
10h 56m Average total duration 9h 56m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* | 3h 58m Average total duration Fastest 58m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.0 - 1.9kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular ferry company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Athens to Crete (Island) Ferry Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 22:00 | Arrival Time 07:00 | Duration 9h00 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun |
Operator Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) | Departure Time 21:00 | Arrival Time 06:30 | Duration 9h30 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 17:00 | Arrival Time 03:00 | Duration 10h00 | Sailing Days Wed |
Operator Seajets | Departure Time 10:00 | Arrival Time 20:15 | Duration 10h15 | Sailing Days Tue |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 21:00 | Arrival Time 06:15 | Duration 9h15 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun |
Live departures
Athens to Crete (Island) ferry times
The table below shows live departures for Athens to Crete (Island) ferries for tomorrow, Thursday 27 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
Last updated at 21:10
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KNOSSOS PALACE | 19:00 Port of Piraeus | 9h30 | 04:30 Heraklion Port | 0 changesdirect | |
| ASTERION II | 19:00 Port of Piraeus | 9h15 | 04:15 Heraklion Port | 0 changesdirect | |
| BLUE STAR 1 | 20:00 Port of Piraeus | 9h00 | 05:00 Port of Souda | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last ferry of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Athens to Crete (Island) by ferry or flight
Compare ferry and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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How far in advance should I book ferry tickets from Athens to Crete (Island)?
The best time to book your ferry from Athens to Crete (Island) is 56 days before departure. See how prices for ferries change on the Athens to Crete (Island) route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Athens to Crete (Island) per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your ferry from Athens to Crete (Island).
Ferries
from £39Flights
from £76Journey information
Overview: Ferry from Athens to Crete (Island)
GreeceGreece
Ferries from Athens to Crete (Island) run on average 5 times per day, taking around 9h 56m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at £21 if you book in advance.
There are 5 ferries per day. The earliest ferry runs at 00:15, the last at 23:45. The fastest ferry covers the 172 nautical miles (320 km) distance in 5h 45m. There are 31 sailings per week. Ferries from Athens to Crete (Island) are available to foot passengers.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Official Omio partners on this route
Distance 172 nautical miles (320 km) |
Average sailing duration 9h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price £21 |
Ferries per day 5 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 31 |
Fastest ferry 5h 45m |
First ferry 00:15 |
Last ferry 23:45 |
Cabins Available |
Vehicles Available |
Foot passengers Available |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Ferry operators: Blue Star Ferries, Anek - Superfast, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), Seajets, Fast Ferries, Aegeon Pelagos, Golden Star Ferries from Athens to Crete (Island)You can travel by ferry between Athens to Crete (Island) with Blue Star Ferries, Anek - Superfast, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), Seajets, Fast Ferries, Aegeon Pelagos, Golden Star Ferries for as low as £21. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey.
Aegeon Pelagos
About
Aegeon Pelagos is a Greek ferry company, established in 2010 as a subsidiary of Anek Lines. It primarily serves routes connecting Piraeus to the Cyclades, Dodecanese, and Crete, aiming to meet the transportation needs of these islands. The company operates vessels like the \Prevelis,\" which offers amenities such as cabins, restaurants, bars, shops, and garages for vehicles. Aegeon Pelagos provides various discounts for travelers, including students, large families, children, and individuals with disabilities. While some sources indicate it has a fleet of eight modern ferries, others suggest it operates with fewer vessels or is currently inactive."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
Passengers are entitled to carry free of charge luggage up to 50 kilos or 1m3.
Cancellation Policy
Up to 14 days prior to departure, tickets are canceled without charge; from 13 to 7 days prior, a 25% cancellation charge applies; from 6 days up to 2 hours prior, a 50% cancellation charge applies; 2 hours prior and up to departure, a 50% cancellation charge applies and tickets cannot be converted or changed; after departure, tickets cannot be canceled or converted.
Refund
If a departure is canceled due to extreme weather conditions or other reasons, tickets are not valid for embarkation and must be exchanged for the next scheduled departure, pending availability.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but it is always advisable to consult with a doctor before traveling.
Amenities on board the ferry
Wifi
Food sold onboard
The ship has restaurants, bars, and coffee shops, including self-service and a la carte options.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
On board, there are specially designed cabins with easy access and operation to accommodate passengers with special needs, which need to be reserved in advance due to limited availability.
Bikes
Bicycles travel for free on all routes.
Pets
Pets can travel in pet cabins or in specially designed kennels on the ship's deck, and they are not allowed in indoor public areas or vehicles unless camping on board is booked.
Cabin reservation
Cabins are available and can be reserved in advance.
Blue Star Ferries
About
Blue Star Ferries is a Greek ferry company that operates a fleet of ferries that provide transportation services for passengers and vehicles across the Aegean Sea and the Adriatic Sea. The company was founded in 1965 and is based in Piraeus, Greece. Blue Star Ferries operates ferry services between the Greek mainland and the Cyclades, Dodecanese, and Northern Aegean islands, as well as between the Greek mainland and Italy.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 15m
Cheapest Price
£28
Blue Star Ferries frequency
3 a day
Additional luggage
Additional luggage allowed for a fee
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations possible up to 24 hours before departure with varying refund rates
Amenities on board the ferry
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurants, cafes, and bars available serving meals and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible areas and facilities available on most vessels. Assistance available upon request.
Pets
Small pets allowed in designated areas. Must be in carriers or leashed. Not allowed in restaurants.
Cabin reservation
Economy cabins to luxury suites available. Must be booked in advance
Anek - Superfast
About
Anek Lines is a Greek-Italian ferry company that operates a fleet of ferries and high-speed vessels between Greece, Italy and Cyprus.Anek Lines operates a fleet of six ships, providing services on several routes such as: Patras - Ancona, Igoumenitsa - Ancona, Piraeus - Heraklion - Chania and Piraeus - Limassol - Larnaca.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 0m
Cheapest Price
£34
Anek - Superfast frequency
1 a day
Additional luggage
Additional luggage allowed for a fee
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations possible up to 24 hours before departure with varying fees depending on ticket type
Amenities on board the ferry
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurants, cafeterias, and bars available
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible areas and facilities available on most vessels. Assistance available upon request.
Pets
Small pets allowed in designated areas or carriers. Dogs must be leashed and muzzled.
Cabin reservation
Various cabin types available from standard to luxury suites
Minoan Lines (Greece domestic)
About
Minoan Lines, established in 1972 in Greece, is a prominent ferry operator known for connecting various Greek islands and mainland destinations. Their fleet comprises modern vessels, including the HSC Santorini Palace and the Cruise Europa, offering different classes such as Economy, Business, and VIP. Onboard amenities include restaurants, bars, shops, and comfortable lounges, ensuring a pleasant journey. Passengers can choose from various ticket types, including standard seats, private cabins, and vehicle transport options. Minoan Lines' top routes include Heraklion to Piraeus, Santorini to Heraklion, and Piraeus to Chania, making it a preferred choice for travelers exploring Greece's picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 15m
Cheapest Price
£29
Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) frequency
1 a day
Additional luggage
Additional luggage allowed for a fee
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations possible up to 14 days before departure for full refund, 7-13 days 75% refund, 4-6 days 50% refund, less than 4 days no refund
Amenities on board the ferry
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurants, cafeterias, and bars available
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible facilities available on most vessels. Assistance available upon request.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers, dogs must be leashed and muzzled. Not allowed in restaurants or indoor accommodation areas.
Cabin reservation
Cabins available in various categories (internal, external, luxury)
Seajets
About
Seajets is a Greek ferry company that operates a fleet of high-speed catamaran ferries that provide transportation services for passengers and vehicles across the Aegean Sea. The company was founded in 2000 and is based in Piraeus, Greece. Seajets operates ferry services between the Greek mainland and the Cyclades, Dodecanese, and Northern Aegean islands. They offer frequent daily departures and a wide range of routes, making it a convenient and efficient way to travel between the islands.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 45m
Cheapest Price
£21
Seajets frequency
2 a day
Additional luggage
Extra luggage allowed for a fee
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations allowed up to 24 hours before departure with fees
Amenities on board the ferry
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafeteria and bar available with snacks and beverages
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible areas available on most vessels. Assistance available upon request.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers, dogs must be leashed and muzzled
Cabin reservation
Basic cabins available on longer routes
Golden Star Ferries
About
Golden Star Ferries is a Greek ferry company that operates routes in the Aegean Sea. They offer services between the Greek mainland and several of the Greek islands, including the Cyclades, the Dodecanese and the Northeastern Aegean islands. Their ships are equipped with amenities such as seating areas, restaurants, and shops. Golden Star Ferries is considered one of the main ferry companies in Greece, with a good reputation for their reliable and efficient services.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Golden Star Ferries frequency
3 a day
Additional luggage
Extra luggage allowed for a fee
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations allowed up to 24 hours before departure with partial refund
Amenities on board the ferry
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant and bar serving meals and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible vessels with dedicated spaces and assistance available
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers, dogs must be leashed and muzzled
Cabin reservation
Available in various categories from standard to luxury
Fast Ferries
About
Fast Ferries is a Greek company that operates high-speed ferry services in the Aegean Sea. They offer regular services between the Greek mainland and the islands of the Cyclades, such as Mykonos and Santorini, as well as services between the islands of the northeastern Aegean, like Lesvos and Chios. The company's fleet is composed of modern and fast vessels, which can reduce travel time between islands and make the trip more comfortable for passengers. They offer amenities like seating areas, cafes, and shops on board.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 30m
Cheapest Price
£226
Fast Ferries frequency
2 a day
Additional luggage
There is no restriction on the number, size, or weight of luggage allowed onboard. The luggage storage area is alongside the car deck; passengers can also keep bags with them if manageable.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled, but cancellation may sometimes occur with refund yet poor communication to passengers.
Amenities on board the ferry
Wifi
Food sold onboard
There are four café-snack bars on board offering snacks and refreshments.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
All Fast Ferries vessels have specially designed areas and infrastructure for people with disabilities, including accessible facilities and seating.
Pets
Pets are allowed on board but not in internal areas; special on-board pet accommodation is available. Pets must be accompanied, on leash and muzzle (for dogs), or in appropriate carriers.
FAQs: Athens to Crete (Island) ferries
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Athens to Crete (Island) by ferry. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest ferry, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Crete (Island), this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap ferry tickets from Athens to Crete (Island) can start from as little as £21 when you book in advance. The average ferry ticket price for Athens to Crete (Island) is £31; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The ferry time between Athens and Crete (Island) is on average 8 h 30 min for the 198 mile long journey, but the time it takes to go to Crete (Island) from Athens by ferry can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first ferry from Athens to Crete (Island) leaves at 01: 00. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last ferry from Athens to Crete (Island) leaves at 23: 30.
Yes, there are 4 direct ferries a day from Athens to Crete (Island) with Anek - Superfast, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), Blue Star Ferries or Fast Ferries. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct ferries.
Yes, you can book a cabin on sailings from Athens to Crete (Island) with Anek - Superfast, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) or Blue Star Ferries
Yes, travelling with a vehicle from Athens to Crete (Island) is possible with Anek - Superfast, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), Blue Star Ferries, Seajets or Fast Ferries.
Yes, travelling as a foot passenger from Athens to Crete (Island) is possible with Anek - Superfast, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), Blue Star Ferries, Seajets or Fast Ferries. We recommend arriving at least one hour before the trip if you are travelling on foot but please check specific times for each route. If you need to book your travel to the departure port, check our trains, buses, and flight options on Omio.
For the trip from Athens to Crete (Island) you can take a ferry with Anek - Superfast, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), Blue Star Ferries, Seajets or Fast Ferries. Be sure to check out all possible ferry operators that offer services to Crete (Island) from Athens on Omio to compare what amenities they may have.
The cheapest month for a ferry from Athens to Crete (Island) is April.
You have options as you can travel from Athens to Crete (Island) 2 different ways: ferry or flight.
popular ferry ports
Important Stations and Airports in Athens and Crete (Island)
Athens
Crete
The major port for departures in Athens is Port of Piraeus. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Port of Piraeus for your trip from Athens to Crete.
Amenities at port
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
- Saturday-Sunday: 06:00-20:00
Car connection
Leoforos Posidonos, Exit to Akti MiaouliWifi
- Free WiFi
Dining
- Kebab & Curry Indian Restaurant (0.3km)
- To Steki tou Ilia (0.5km)
- Rouan Thai (0.7km)
Taxis
- Main companies are Piraeus Taxi and Athens Taxi.
WC
- Free
Public transport options for Port of Piraeus
- Metro Line 1, Piraeus Station
The major port for arrivals in Crete is Heraklion Port. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Heraklion Port for your trip to Crete from Athens.
Amenities at port
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00 Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
32 kmCar connection
E75, Exit towards Heraklion PortWifi
- Free WiFi
Dining
- Kouzina EPE (0.3km)
- Paralia Seaside Restaurant (0.5km)
- Ligo Krasi Ligo Thalassa (0.6km)
Taxis
- Main companies are Heraklion Taxi and Radio Taxi Knossos.
WC
- Free
Public transport options for Heraklion Port
- Bus Line 1, Stop: Heraklion Port
Amenities at port
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Saturday-Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Distance to city center
33 kmCar connection
EO90, Exit to Rethymno PortWifi
- Free WiFi
Dining
- Prima Plora (0.7km)
- Alana Restaurant (0.9km)
- Avli (0.9km)
Taxis
- Main companies are Rethymno Taxi and Crete Taxi Services.
WC
- Free
Public transport options for Port of Rethymno
- Bus Line 1, Rethymno Port Stop
Amenities at port
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 08:00-20:00
- Saturday-Sunday: 09:00-18:00
Distance to city center
3 kmCar connection
E65, Exit KissamosWifi
- Free WiFi
Dining
- Pixida (0.3km)
- The Cellar Tavern (0.4km)
- Aretousa (0.5km)
Taxis
- Main companies are Styl Taxi and Mert.
WC
- Free
Public transport options for Port of Kavonisi-Kissamos
- Bus Line 96, Kissamos Stop
Amenities at port
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 08:00-20:00 Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmCar connection
Epar.Od. Sitias-Palekastrou, Exit Sitia PortWifi
- Free WiFi
Dining
- Inodion (0.3km)
- Mitsakakis (0.4km)
- Ziafeti (0.5km)
Taxis
- Main companies are Sitia Taxi and Radio Taxi Sitia.
WC
- Free
Public transport options for Sitia
- Bus Line 3, Sitia Port Stop
More options for your journey from Athens to Crete (Island)
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular ferries to and from Crete (Island) and Athens
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