- Must visit
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Major archaeological museum presenting Minoan art, sculpture, jewellery and finds from Knossos and sites across Crete.
Cheapest price on 23 Oct
£103
Average ticket price on 23 Oct
£103
Fastest journey on 23 Oct
10 h 55 m
Average journey duration on 23 Oct
10 h 55 m
Ferries on 23 Oct
1
Distance
170 km
The best way to find a cheap ferry ticket from Ios 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 Ios to Crete (Island) will cost around £103 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap ferry tickets today for only £103.
To travel from Ios to Crete (Island) you need to make at least one change.


Take a ferry from Ios to Crete (Island) and enjoy the approximately 91 nautical miles (170 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest ferry runs at 07:30, the last at 15:05. Ferries from Ios to Crete (Island) are available to foot passengers.


Distance 91 nautical miles (170 km) |
First ferry 7:30 |
Last ferry 15:05 |
Cabins Available |
Vehicles Available |
Foot passengers Available |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 49 days |
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Ios to Crete (Island).
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Sailing Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Hellenic Seaways | Departure Time 19:35 | Arrival Time 06:30 | Duration 10h55 | Sailing Days Fri, Sat, Sun |
Operator Blue Star Ferries | Departure Time 14:20 | Arrival Time 03:00 | Duration 36h40 | Sailing Days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu |
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Discover the best of Crete (Island) — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Crete (Island) trip today.
Major archaeological museum presenting Minoan art, sculpture, jewellery and finds from Knossos and sites across Crete.
Modern museum in Chania tracing Cretan history from prehistory to modern times through ceramics, mosaics and carved objects.
Well-curated museum in Vori exploring traditional Cretan life, crafts and social history through strong displays and local detail.
Atmospheric old quarter with Venetian lanes, harbour walks, shops and historic buildings that reward slow exploration.
Lively waterfront promenade in Heraklion lined with sea views, harbour activity and access to the Koules fortress.
Elegant old harbour district in Rethymno with narrow streets, coloured facades and an easy route between the port and Fortezza.
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.
Gamopilafo is a creamy rice dish cooked in rich meat stock, traditionally served at weddings. It is one of Crete’s signature celebratory foods.
Antikristo is lamb slow-roasted around an open fire with only salt. This ancient shepherds’ method is strongly associated with mountainous Crete.
Well-known Heraklion restaurant serving refined Cretan and Greek cooking in an elegant but relaxed setting near the historic centre.
Established seafront fish taverna in Rethymno, popular for fresh seafood, classic meze and harbour views.
Casual local favourite in Chania for traditional Cretan plates, grilled meats and hearty portions in a simple setting.
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.
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.
Official public transport app
Heraklion Port -> Lions Square, Heraklion
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ios 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.

Most Ios to Crete (Island) ferries use the to Heraklion Port port pair. Use this guide to compare Ios and Crete (Island) ports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like port facilities and services.
Heraklion Port is 32 km from Crete city centre. Public transport options include:
Heraklion Port has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Kouzina EPE (0.3km), Paralia Seaside Restaurant (0.5km), Ligo Krasi Ligo Thalassa (0.6km)
Free WiFi. ATMs are available inside the terminal.
Ticket office support is available at Heraklion Port.
Available at Heraklion Port: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Heraklion Port.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need