Ferries in Greece and to Crete: Essential Travel Routes for Island Hopping.
Greece’s islands are a top holiday spot. Many people visit them by ferry. Crete is the biggest Greek island and a popular place to go.
Ferries to Crete leave from Athens and other Greek islands like Santorini and Mykonos. The trip from Athens to Crete can take 6 to 10 hours. Shorter trips are possible from nearby islands.
Ferry tickets to Crete can be booked online. Prices vary based on the type of seat or cabin. Some ferries have pools, shops, and restaurants on board. It’s a fun way to travel and see the Greek islands.
Understanding Ferry Travel in Greece
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Greek ferry travel offers various options for island hopping and coastal journeys. Travellers can choose from different vessel types, operators, and speed classes to suit their needs and preferences.
Types of Ferries
Greece boasts a diverse fleet of ferries. Passenger ferries are common for short trips between nearby islands. These smaller vessels carry people but not vehicles. Larger car ferries accommodate both passengers and vehicles, ideal for longer journeys or those bringing their own transport.
Some routes use catamarans, which are faster but more affected by rough seas. For longer trips, especially overnight, many opt for ferry-boats. These larger vessels offer cabins and more amenities.
Major Ferry Operators
Several companies operate ferry services in Greece. Blue Star Ferries is a popular choice, running routes to the Cyclades and Dodecanese islands. They’re known for reliable, comfortable ships.
Minoan Lines specialises in routes to Crete, offering modern vessels with good facilities. Seajets operates high-speed catamarans, ideal for quick island hops. ANEK Lines serves various routes, including connections to Italy.
Each company has its strengths, so it’s worth comparing options for your specific journey.
Conventional vs Fast Ferries
Travellers can choose between conventional and fast ferries. Conventional ferries are slower but often more comfortable. They’re less affected by weather and can carry more passengers and vehicles.
Fast ferries, including high-speed catamarans, cut travel times significantly. For example, a trip that might take 5 hours on a conventional ferry could be reduced to 2-3 hours. However, they’re more expensive and can be cancelled in rough weather.
The choice often depends on budget, time constraints, and personal preference. Some prefer the leisurely pace of conventional ferries, while others prioritise speed.
Planning Your Trip to Crete
When planning a trip to Crete, booking ferry tickets is essential. Several companies offer ferry connections to Crete from mainland Greece and other islands.
To find the best ferry options, use a reliable booking engine. These tools allow you to compare ticket prices, schedules, and routes easily.
Ferry routes to Crete include:
Ticket prices vary depending on the route, season, and ferry type. Economy tickets from Rhodes to Heraklion cost around €26.
Ferry schedules change seasonally. During peak summer months, there are 5-8 daily crossings from Athens to Crete. The first morning ferry typically departs at 9:00 and arrives at 18:50.
When choosing a ferry, consider the journey time. The trip from Piraeus to Heraklion takes about 9-10 hours. Overnight ferries are available, usually departing around 22:30.
Five ferry companies offer direct lines to Crete:
- Minoan Lines
- Anek Lines
- Blue Star Ferries
- Seajets
- Fast Ferries
Book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred travel dates and accommodations.
Information about ferry connections
Minoan Lines
Minoan Lines has been providing a large European ferry company with a well-equipped fleet in the Aegean and Italy for over 35 years.
Minoan Lines currently mainly use the ferry services
- Ancona (Italy) to Patras (Greece),
- Piraeus (Athens) to Heraklion (Crete),
- Venice (Italy) to Patras (Greece).
It is also possible to leave the ships on Corfu or Igoumenitsa.
ANEK Lines
ANEK Lines currently mainly handles the ferry services
- Ancona (Italy) to Patras (Greece),
- Bari (Italy) to Patras (Greece),
- Venice (Italy) to Patras (Greece),
- Piraeus (Athens) to Chania (Crete),
- Pireus (Athens) to Heraklion (Crete).
Here, too, the ship can alternatively be left on Corfu or at Igoumenitsa. There are also connections to the Cyclades (e.g. Santorini) and Dodecanese Islands (e.g. Rhodes), but also Sitia in Crete.
Ports of Embarkation and Arrival
Greece’s ferry system connects mainland ports to Crete through various key departure and arrival points. These ports serve as vital links for passengers and cargo moving between the mainland and Crete.
Mainland Departure Points
The Port of Piraeus is the main hub for ferries to Crete. Located near Athens, it’s the busiest passenger port in Europe. Ferries to Crete leave daily from Piraeus, with increased frequency during summer months.
Passengers must check in at least 1 hour before departure for Greek routes. The port has modern facilities, including cafes, shops, and waiting areas.
Other mainland ports with services to Crete include:
- Rafina: A smaller port east of Athens
- Thessaloniki: Offers some seasonal routes to Crete
- Kavala: Connects northern Greece to Crete in summer
Key Ports in Crete
Crete has several major ports for arriving ferries:
Heraklion Port is the island’s busiest, handling most ferries from Piraeus. It’s well-equipped with passenger amenities and close to the city centre.
Chania Port, in western Crete, is the second-largest. It receives ferries from Piraeus and some Cycladic islands.
Rethymno Port serves central Crete, while Agios Nikolaos and Sitia ports cater to eastern Crete. These smaller ports offer more limited services but can be convenient for reaching specific areas of the island.
All Cretan ports provide basic facilities for arrivals, including taxis and bus connections to nearby towns.
Travelling to and from Crete by Ferry
Crete is well-connected to mainland Greece and other islands by ferry. The main routes are from Piraeus to Heraklion and Chania, the two largest ports on Crete.
Ferries from Athens to Crete run daily throughout the year. The journey takes 6-9 hours, depending on the type of vessel. Overnight ferries are popular, allowing travellers to save on accommodation costs.
Several ferry operators serve these routes:
- Blue Star Ferries
- Minoan Lines
- ANEK Lines
- Seajets
- Fast Ferries
During peak season, there are also ferries from Rafina port near Athens. For western Crete, some ferries arrive at Kissamos port, though less frequently.
Crete is also linked to other Greek islands. Common routes include:
- Santorini to Crete: 2-2.5 hours
- Mykonos to Crete: 5-5.5 hours
- Naxos to Crete: 3.5 hours
- Paros to Crete: 4 hours
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during summer months. Prices vary based on season, vessel type, and accommodation class.
When planning your journey, consider factors like:
- Travel time
- Departure/arrival times
- On-board facilities
- Luggage allowance
Ferry schedules can change, so it’s wise to check the latest information before travelling.
Accommodations
Greek ferries offer various lodging choices for travellers. From basic seating to luxurious cabins, passengers can select the option that best suits their needs and budget.
Booking Your Stay
Ferry tickets to Crete and other Greek islands can be booked online. Many booking engines allow passengers to reserve their preferred accommodation at the same time. It’s wise to book early, especially during peak season, to secure the best options.
Accommodation types include:
- Economy seats
- Airline-style seats
- Shared cabins
- Private cabins
Prices vary based on the type of accommodation and route. Private cabins tend to be pricier but offer more comfort for longer journeys.
Onboard Accommodations
Sleeper cabins are available on many overnight ferries. These cabins typically include beds and private bathrooms, providing a comfortable space for longer trips.
Economy seating is the most budget-friendly option. These seats are similar to those found in cinemas or on coaches. Airline-style seats offer more comfort and are often found in reserved seating areas.
Some ferries boast luxury amenities, including:
- Restaurants
- Bars
- Shops
- Swimming pools (on larger vessels)
Minoan Lines is known for its luxurious ferries, offering top-notch accommodations and facilities for passengers travelling to the Greek islands.
Practical Information for Ferry Travellers
Ferry travel in Greece offers a scenic way to reach Crete and other islands. Prices vary based on the route and season. A ferry ticket from Athens to Crete typically costs between €30 and €60 for a deck seat.
The journey time depends on the destination. Trips to Crete can take 8 to 11 hours, while shorter routes to Cyclades Islands may be just a few hours.
Travellers can book tickets through online booking engines or at local travel agencies. It’s wise to book in advance, especially during peak summer months.
Popular routes include:
- Athens (Piraeus) to Crete (Heraklion, Chania)
- Athens to Cyclades Islands
- Athens to Dodecanese Islands
When planning to take the ferry to Crete, travellers should consider:
- Overnight options with cabins for longer journeys
- Bringing snacks and water
- Arriving at the port early to find the correct gate
Ferry companies like Minoan Lines offer luxurious options for those seeking comfort. Budget-conscious travellers can opt for deck seats on standard ferries.
Remember to check the luggage allowance and any restrictions before boarding. Most ferries have cafes and shops on board for passenger convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Travellers to Crete often have queries about ferry services, schedules, and booking options. Here are answers to some common questions about travelling by ferry to Crete from Greece and other parts of Europe.
What are the best-rated ferry services for travel to Crete?
Minoan Lines and Anek Lines are highly regarded ferry companies for trips to Crete. These companies offer regular services from Piraeus to Chania throughout the year. They provide comfortable amenities and reliable schedules for passengers.
How do you find the cheapest ferry tickets to Crete?
To find cheap ferry tickets to Crete, book well in advance. Compare prices across different companies and dates. Off-season travel often offers lower fares. Consider night ferries, which may be more economical.
Could you provide the schedule for ferries travelling from mainland Greece to Crete?
Ferries from Piraeus to Chania typically depart around 20:30-21:00 daily. During peak season, additional morning and afternoon departures are available. Schedules may vary, so it’s best to check with ferry companies for the most up-to-date information.
What is the duration of the journey by ferry from the Greek mainland to Crete?
The ferry journey from Piraeus to Chania takes between 9-12 hours, depending on the ferry company and type of vessel. Night ferries often have longer travel times but allow passengers to sleep during the journey.
Which ports in Greece have ferries that go to Crete?
The main port for ferries to Crete is Piraeus, near Athens. Heraklion is a major destination for ferries arriving in Crete. Some ferries also connect other Greek islands to Crete, but these routes may be seasonal.
Can you take a ferry from Italy to Crete, and if so, what are the details?
Direct ferries from Italy to Crete are not available. Travellers from Italy must first take a ferry to a Greek mainland port, typically Patras or Igoumenitsa. From there, they can travel to Piraeus and then take a ferry to Crete.
