- Must visit
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Major archaeological museum presenting Minoan art, sculpture, jewellery and finds from Knossos and sites across Crete.
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The cheapest and fastest ferries from Athens to Crete (Island)
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 10 Oct
Cheapest price on 10 Oct
£29
Average ticket price on 10 Oct
£52
Fastest journey on 10 Oct
7 h 55 m
Average journey duration on 10 Oct
9 h 3 m
Ferries on 10 Oct
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 £52 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap ferry tickets today for only £29.
Fast ferries
On Sat 10 Oct, we found 3 ferries from Athens to Crete (Island), including 3 direct services.
On Sat 10 Oct the direct ferries cover the 320 km distance in an average of 9 h 3 m but if you time it right, some ferries will get you there in just 7 h 55 m .
The slowest ferries will take 9 h 50 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.
ARIADNE21:009h50Port of Piraeus6:50Heraklion Port£291One-way0 changes- ELYROS22:009h25Port of Piraeus7:25Port of Souda£471One-way0 changes
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE JET 19:307h55Port of Piraeus17:25Heraklion Port£801One-way0 changes
- CHAMPIONS LEAGUE JET 19:307h55Port of Piraeus17:25Heraklion Port£801One-way0 changes
- ELYROS22:009h25Port of Piraeus7:25Port of Souda£471One-way0 changes
- ARIADNE21:009h50Port of Piraeus6:50Heraklion Port£291One-way0 changes
Journey 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 36m. Cheap ferry tickets for this journey start at £20 but you can travel from only £17 by flight.
There are 5 ferries per day. The earliest ferry runs at 00:20, the last at 23:45. The fastest ferry covers the 172 nautical miles (320 km) distance in 5h 45m. There are 21 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from £17
Official Omio partners on this route
Distance 172 nautical miles (320 km) |
Average sailing duration 9h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price £20 |
Ferries per day 5 |
Direct ferries Available |
Average weekly sailings 21 |
Fastest ferry 5h 45m |
First ferry 0:20 |
Last ferry 23:45 |
Cabins Available |
Vehicles Available |
Foot passengers Available |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 77 days |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from £17
Athens to Crete (Island) Ferry Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 22:00 | Arrival Time 07:25 | Duration 9h25 | Sailing Days Everyday |
Operator Seajets | Departure Time 15:00 | Arrival Time 01:40 | Duration 10h40 | Sailing Days Fri |
Operator Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) | Departure Time 21:00 | Arrival Time 06:30 | Duration 9h30 | Sailing Days Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 17:00 | Arrival Time 04:20 | Duration 11h20 | Sailing Days Fri |
Operator Seajets | Departure Time 10:00 | Arrival Time 20:15 | Duration 10h15 | Sailing Days Tue |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 15:00 | Arrival Time 05:00 | Duration 14h00 | Sailing Days Wed |
Operator Seajets | Departure Time 09:30 | Arrival Time 17:25 | Duration 7h55 | Sailing Days Everyday |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 21:00 | Arrival Time 06:50 | Duration 9h50 | Sailing Days Everyday |
Live departures
Athens to Crete (Island) ferry times
The table below shows live departures for Athens to Crete (Island) ferries for today, Friday 9 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated ferry journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHAMPIONS LEAGUE JET 2 | 9:30 Port of Piraeus | 7h55 | 17:25 Heraklion Port | 0 changesdirect | |
| AQUA JEWEL | 15:00 Port of Piraeus | 10h40 | 1:40 Kissamos | 0 changesdirect | |
| BLUE STAR CHIOS | 17:00 Port of Piraeus | 11h20 | 4:20 Heraklion Port | 0 changesdirect | |
| BLUE STAR CHIOS | 17:00 Port of Piraeus | 14h45 | 7:45 Sitia | 0 changesdirect | |
| ASTERION II | 21:00 Port of Piraeus | 9h50 | 6:50 Heraklion Port | 0 changesdirect | |
 FESTOS PALACE | 21:00 Port of Piraeus | 9h30 | 6:30 Heraklion Port | 0 changesdirect | |
| KISSAMOS | 22:00 Port of Piraeus | 9h25 | 7:25 Port of Souda | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last ferry of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Athens to Crete (Island) ferries with Omio?
Blue Star Ferries as well as Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) or Seajets offer ferries services from Athens to Crete (Island).
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Athens to Crete (Island).
Why book with Omio vs Blue Star Ferries?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Blue Star Ferries, but also compare tickets for the likes of Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) or Seajets to find the best option for your trip from Athens to Crete (Island).
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Blue Star Ferries with all available travel options, which are ferry and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Athens to Crete (Island).
Why book with Omio over Ferryhopper, Directferries or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) or Seajets to find the best option for your trip from Athens to Crete (Island).
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including ferry and flight to find the ideal travel option from Athens to Crete (Island).
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 77 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 £20Flights
from £41Ferry operators: Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), Seajets from Athens to Crete (Island)You can travel by ferry between Athens to Crete (Island) with Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), Seajets for as low as £17. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey.
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 Blue Star Ferries Duration
8h 0m
Cheapest Blue Star Ferries Price
£27
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
Car on board
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 Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) Duration
9h 15m
Cheapest Minoan Lines (Greece domestic) Price
£28
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)
Car on board
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 Seajets Duration
5h 45m
Cheapest Seajets Price
£20
Seajets frequency
1 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
Car on board
Complete guide to Crete (Island)
Things to do in Crete (Island)
Discover the best of Crete (Island) — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Crete (Island) trip today.
- Recommended
Archaeological Museum of Chania
Modern museum in Chania tracing Cretan history from prehistory to modern times through ceramics, mosaics and carved objects.
- Recommended
Museum of Cretan Ethnology
Well-curated museum in Vori exploring traditional Cretan life, crafts and social history through strong displays and local detail.
- Must visit
Chania Old Town
Atmospheric old quarter with Venetian lanes, harbour walks, shops and historic buildings that reward slow exploration.
- Recommended
Heraklion Venetian Harbour
Lively waterfront promenade in Heraklion lined with sea views, harbour activity and access to the Koules fortress.
- Recommended
Rethymno Old Town
Elegant old harbour district in Rethymno with narrow streets, coloured facades and an easy route between the port and Fortezza.
- Vegetarian
Dakos
Dakos is a Cretan barley rusk topped with tomato, mizithra or feta, olive oil and oregano. It is a staple meze that showcases the island’s olive oil and produce.
- Gluten-free
Gamopilafo
Gamopilafo is a creamy rice dish cooked in rich meat stock, traditionally served at weddings. It is one of Crete’s signature celebratory foods.
- Gluten-free
Antikristo
Antikristo is lamb slow-roasted around an open fire with only salt. This ancient shepherds’ method is strongly associated with mountainous Crete.
Peskesi
Well-known Heraklion restaurant serving refined Cretan and Greek cooking in an elegant but relaxed setting near the historic centre.
Prima Plora
Established seafront fish taverna in Rethymno, popular for fresh seafood, classic meze and harbour views.
To Stachi
Casual local favourite in Chania for traditional Cretan plates, grilled meats and hearty portions in a simple setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for a Greek island. Rooms, tavernas and buses are fair value, but resort areas, car hire and peak summer stays cost more than mainland Greece.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for gyros, bakery food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a taverna or restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% at restaurants is appreciated. Round up taxi fares and leave small change in cafés if service is good.
Heraklion Urban Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.20
- Day pass
- €5.00
To the city centre
Heraklion Port -> Lions Square, Heraklion
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy urban bus tickets before boarding for the standard fare; the operator's official fare page shows a higher on-board fare.
- Use the operator app for e-tickets and live bus information. Contactless bank card acceptance is not clearly confirmed on the official source.
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 £20 when you book in advance. The average ferry ticket price for Athens to Crete (Island) is £46; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by ferry from Athens to Crete (Island) is 5h 45m to travel the 320 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest ferry from Athens to Crete (Island) leaves at 0:20. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest ferry from Athens to Crete (Island) leaves at 23:45.
Yes, there are 5 direct ferries a day from Athens to Crete (Island) with Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), Seajets. 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 Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic)
Yes, travelling with a vehicle from Athens to Crete (Island) is possible with Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), Seajets.
Yes, travelling as a foot passenger from Athens to Crete (Island) is possible with Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), Seajets. 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.
When taking a ferry from Athens to Crete (Island), you can count on Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines (Greece domestic), Seajets for the best way to get you to Crete (Island). You can also check all possible ferry operators who offer a service between Athens and Crete (Island) and compare the amenities they offer before buying a ferry ticket.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Athens and Crete (Island) including taking a ferry and flight.
popular ferry ports
Important Stations and Airports in Athens and Crete (Island)
Most Athens to Crete (Island) ferries use the Port of Piraeus to Heraklion Port port pair, with some services arriving at Port of Souda (Chania). Use this guide to compare Athens and Crete (Island) ports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like port facilities and services.
Departure ports in Athens
Arrival ports in Crete
Which Athens port do ferries to Crete (Island) leave from?
Ferries from Athens to Crete (Island) leave from Port of Piraeus. The port is from Athens city centre at 10, Akti Miaouli str, Pireas 185 38, Greece.
Port of Piraeus10, Akti Miaouli str, Pireas 185 38, Greece
City-centre transport
Getting to Port of Piraeus from Athens city centre
Metro Line 1, Piraeus Station
Port of Piraeus port facilities and services
Port of Piraeus has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Kebab & Curry Indian Restaurant (0.3km), To Steki tou Ilia (0.5km), Rouan Thai (0.7km)
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi. ATMs are available in passenger terminals.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Port of Piraeus.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Port of Piraeus: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Port of Piraeus.
Which Crete (Island) port do ferries from Athens arrive at?
Ferries from Athens to Crete (Island) most often arrive at Heraklion Port. Some services arrive at Port of Souda (Chania), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Crete (Island) arrival port.
Heraklion PortLeof. Nearchou, Iraklio 713 07, Greece
City-centre transport
Getting to Heraklion Port from Crete city centre
Heraklion Port is 32 km from Crete city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus10, 15, 31 · 10m · £0.89 · every ~10 min
Shuttle7m · £2
Heraklion Port port facilities and services
Heraklion Port has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Kouzina EPE (0.3km), Paralia Seaside Restaurant (0.5km), Ligo Krasi Ligo Thalassa (0.6km)
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi. ATMs are available inside the terminal.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Heraklion Port.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Heraklion Port: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Heraklion Port.
Port of Souda (Chania)Souda 732 00, Greece
City-centre transport
Getting to Port of Souda (Chania) from Crete city centre
Bus13 · 21m · every ~4 min
13 · 27m · every ~4 min
SitiaKazantzaki 3, Sitia 723 00, Greece
City-centre transport
Getting to Sitia from Crete city centre
Sitia is 1 km from Crete city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3h 0m · £15
Shuttle2h 50m
Sitia port facilities and services
Sitia has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Inodion (0.3km), Mitsakakis (0.4km), Ziafeti (0.5km)
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi. ATMs are available in the terminal.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sitia.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sitia: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sitia.
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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