Greece › Greek Ferries › Mykonos to Santorini
Updated: May 11, 2026 • By Santorini Dave
Questions? dave@santorinidave.com
The Mykonos to Santorini ferry is the easiest and most popular way to travel between the two islands. Ferries are seasonal on this route, running from late March or early April to late October, with high frequency from June through September. Most boats on this route are high-speed ferries, the trip takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, and tickets should be booked in advance for summer travel.
For most travelers, the best plan is simple: book a direct ferry online, choose the largest high-speed vessel available, save your boarding pass to your phone, and arrange transport to and from both ferry ports before travel day.
See Also
- Where to Stay in Santorini
- Santorini Ferry Port Guide
- Where to Stay in Mykonos
- Mykonos Ferry Port Guide
Helpful Links
- How I buy ferry tickets: Ferryhopper.com
- Pre-booked taxi service: Welcome Pickups

Boarding a Santorini-bound ferry at Mykonos New Port in Tourlos. SeaJets offers the fastest and most frequent ferries on the Mykonos-Santorini route.
Mykonos to Santorini Ferries – My Advice
- Best place to book: Book Mykonos to Santorini ferry tickets on Ferryhopper.com. It compares ferry companies, departure times, prices, seat classes, and e-ticket options in one search.
- How early to book: For June, July, August, and early September, book at least 1 to 2 months in advance. For the most popular departures, families, groups, and Business/VIP seats, 2 to 3 months ahead is better.
- Typical travel time: Direct ferries take 2 to 3.5 hours, depending on the boat, route, stops, and wind conditions.
- Typical price: Economy seats start around €100. Business and VIP seats are more expensive but worth it for the calmer cabin.
- Ferry companies: The main operators are SeaJets and Golden Star Ferries. SeaJets has the most departures and fastest boats.
- Departure port: Ferries leave from Mykonos New Port in Tourlos, not the Old Port in Mykonos Town. This is a very common mistake. If you are staying in Mykonos Town, the SeaBus is the easiest low-cost way to reach the port. If you are staying elsewhere on the island, arrange a hotel shuttle, taxi, or transfer in advance.
- Arrival port: Ferries arrive at Athinios Port, Santorini’s main ferry port. Athinios is not a town. It sits below the caldera cliffs, and traffic on the port road can be awful after ferry arrivals. Do not expect to easily grab a taxi when you arrive.
- Best ferry to choose: In calm weather, choose the departure time that fits your day. If you are prone to seasickness, choose the largest high-speed ferry available and avoid the smallest catamarans (SuperJet or SeaJet II) when possible.
- E-tickets: Most tickets are digital. For SeaJets, online check-in is available from 48 hours to 2 hours before departure. After check-in, save the QR code to your phone and scan it to board.
How to Book Mykonos to Santorini Ferry Tickets
The easiest way to book Mykonos to Santorini ferry tickets is through Ferryhopper.com. Search Mykonos to Santorini, enter your travel date, compare departure times and ferry companies, then choose your seat class. I recommend booking online instead of waiting until you get to Mykonos. Mykonos New Port is windy, busy, and not a place where you want to be solving ticket problems at the last minute.

Ferryhopper shows vessel length and passenger capacity for most ferries. Smaller catamarans wll be faster, but if you’re worried about seasickness, choose the largest ferry available. Ferries over 80m long and carrying 800+ passengers will feel more stable than the smaller 40m to 50m catamarans.
- Step 1: Search your exact travel date. Ferry times vary by season, day of the week, and ferry company.
- Step 2: Compare total travel time, not just departure time. Some ferries are direct; others stop at islands such as Paros, Naxos, or Ios along the way.
- Step 3: If you’re concerned about seasickness, compare vessel length and passenger capacity. The larger the ferry, the more stable the ride.
- Step 4: Choose your seat class. Economy is fine for most travelers, but for me Business or VIP is worth it on this route.
- Step 5: Complete online check-in when available and save your boarding pass QR code to your phone.
Mykonos to Santorini Ferry Schedule
Mykonos to Santorini ferries are seasonal, operating from spring through autumn, with the most frequent service from June through September. In peak summer, there are several departures per day, concentrated from morning through afternoon. Outside peak season, service is reduced, and in winter, there is no direct ferry at all between Mykonos and Santorini.
The exact schedule changes by month, date, and ferry company. Do not build a tight itinerary around last year’s ferry times.
Example Mykonos to Santorini ferry schedules and prices on Ferryhopper.com. Always search your exact travel date, as times and boats change by season.
How Much Do Mykonos to Santorini Ferry Tickets Cost?
Mykonos to Santorini is one of the more expensive island-to-island ferry routes in Greece. Standard seats start around €100, but prices vary by ferry company, date, vessel, and seat class.
- Economy seats: The cheapest assigned seats are fine for most travelers.
- Business or Club Class: More space, a calmer cabin, and (for me) a good-value upgrade.
- VIP or Platinum: The most comfortable seat class on many high-speed ferries.
If the difference between Economy and Business is modest, I upgrade on this route. The trip is not long, but the ferries are busy and the extra space makes the journey more comfortable.
What is the Best Ferry from Mykonos to Santorini?
The best Mykonos to Santorini ferry is the largest high-speed ferry with a departure time that fits your day. In calm weather, the difference between ferry companies matters less than the departure time, total travel time, vessel size, and seat class. In windy weather, size matters: larger high-speed ferries feel more stable than small catamarans.
- Best overall: A large SeaJets high-speed ferry, such as WorldChampion Jet or Power Jet.
- Best for comfort: Business or VIP seats on a larger high-speed ferry.
- Best for price: The cheapest direct ferry that still fits your schedule.
- Best for seasickness: The largest ferry available, seated low and near the center of the vessel.
- Worst choice: A small catamaran on a windy day, especially if you are prone to motion sickness.
Which Seats Should You Book?
Economy seats are fine for most travelers, but this is one of the Greek ferry routes where an upgrade is worth it. The Mykonos to Santorini ferry is busy, expensive, and often affected by wind. Business and VIP seats give you more space, a quieter cabin, and a less hectic experience.
- Economy: Best if you want the cheapest assigned seat and are not worried about crowds.
- Business/Club Class: Best value upgrade. More space and a calmer cabin.
- VIP/Platinum: Best for travelers who want the most comfortable seat available, though the price jump is not always worth it.
For seasickness, seat class matters less than location. Sit low, near the middle of the ferry, and avoid wandering around during rough seas. The upper decks and forward sections can feel bumpier.
Do You Need to Print Mykonos to Santorini Ferry Tickets?
No. All Mykonos to Santorini ferry tickets can be used digitally after online check-in. For SeaJets, online check-in is available from 48 hours to 2 hours before departure. After check-in, you receive a boarding pass with a QR code that can be scanned from your phone.
Save the boarding pass to your phone wallet or take screenshots before going to Mykonos New Port. Mobile data can be unreliable when hundreds of passengers are trying to board at the same time.
- Confirmation email: This is not always the same as your boarding pass.
- Online check-in: Complete it when available, about a day or two before departure.
- Boarding pass: This is the QR code that gets scanned at the ferry ramp.
- Printed tickets: Unnecessary, but check your booking confirmation for company-specific instructions.
Getting to Mykonos Ferry Port
Mykonos ferries to Santorini depart from Mykonos New Port in Tourlos. This is not the Old Port in Mykonos Town. Mykonos New Port is about 2 km north of town, and the road between town and the port is busy, exposed, and unpleasant with luggage.
- From Mykonos Town: The SeaBus is the easiest low-cost option. It connects Mykonos Town and the Old Port area with the New Port in Tourlos.
- From Fabrika: Public buses sometimes run to the New Port, but schedules vary. The SeaBus or a transfer is simpler.
- From Ornos, Platis Gialos, Psarou, or Agios Ioannis: A hotel transfer or pre-booked ride is easiest.
- From Elia, Super Paradise, or other farther beaches: Arrange a transfer in advance. Do not count on finding a last-minute taxi.
Arrive at Mykonos New Port about 45 minutes before departure in summer. Do not arrive two hours early unless your ferry company specifically tells you to. The port is windy, exposed, and short on comfortable waiting areas. If you’re desperate, using Uber is more likely to get you a car than calling a taxi.
Arriving at Santorini Ferry Port
Mykonos to Santorini ferries arrive at Athinios Port, Santorini’s main ferry port. Athinios is not in Fira or Oia. It sits at the bottom of the caldera cliffs, below the main road between Fira and the south of the island. The final road up from the port is steep, narrow, and congested after ferry arrivals.
- Best option: Arrange a hotel transfer or private transfer in advance.
- Cheapest option: Take the public bus to Fira, then connect from there if needed.
- Taxi: Convenient if available, but supply is limited in peak season.
- Hotel pickup: A good option if your hotel offers it, especially if you are staying in Oia, Imerovigli, Firostefani, Akrotiri, Kamari, or Perissa.
If you are staying in Fira, the bus can work well if you travel light and are comfortable with crowds. If you are staying anywhere else, a transfer is worth it. Do not expect to step off the ferry and easily find a taxi.

Ferry Types on the Mykonos to Santorini Route
Most ferries on the Mykonos to Santorini route are high-speed catamarans or high-speed passenger ferries. Conventional slow ferries like Blue Star are not common on this specific island-to-island route and are not something I would count on when planning the trip.
Large High-Speed Ferries
Large high-speed ferries are the best choice on the Mykonos to Santorini route. They are fast, carry lots of passengers, and feel more stable than the smallest catamarans.

SeaJets ferries are the fastest boats from Mykonos to Santorini.

The SeaJets Power Jet ferry from Mykonos to Santorini. Larger high-speed ferries are better than small catamarans if you are worried about rough seas.

The SeaJets Naxos Jet ferry from Mykonos to Santorini. Another large vessel that’s good in rough seas.
Economy, Business, and VIP Seating
Seat classes vary by ferry, but the basic trade-off is simple: Economy is cheaper; Business and VIP are roomier and calmer. For this route, I prefer Business or VIP if the price difference is reasonable.

General seating on the WorldChampion Jet ferry from Mykonos to Santorini.

Business and VIP seating has more space and a calmer feel than standard Economy. I think they’re worth it on this busy route.
Small Catamarans
Small catamarans are fast, but they are more likely to feel bumpy in windy conditions. I would avoid the smallest boats if you are prone to seasickness, traveling with young children, or don’t enjoy watching other people vomit.

The SeaJets SuperJet ferry from Mykonos to Santorini. Small catamarans can offer a bumpy ride in choppy seas. Choose a larger ferry if you’re prone to seasickness.

The SeaJets SeaJet II from Mykonos to Santorini. Fast, small catamarans are convenient in calm weather but can be uncomfortable when the Meltemi winds are blowing.
Seasickness on the Mykonos to Santorini Ferry
The Mykonos to Santorini ferry can be rough, especially in summer when the Meltemi winds blow through the Cyclades. Most crossings are fine, but if you are prone to seasickness, take the route seriously.
- Choose a larger ferry when available.
- Sit low and near the center of the vessel.
- Don’t read or look at your phone while the ferry is underway. Close your eyes or look toward the horizon — the farthest fixed point you can see.
- Avoid the front and upper decks if the sea is choppy.
- Take motion-sickness medication before boarding if you normally use it.
- Eat lightly before travel and avoid too much alcohol the night before.
If seas are rough, the ferry crew may ask passengers to remain seated. Do not plan important tours, expensive restaurant reservations, or tight airport connections immediately after arrival in Santorini. Even if you don’t get sick, you may feel off for a few hours.
Should You Fly from Mykonos to Santorini Instead?
For most travelers, no. The ferry is simpler. Direct flights between Mykonos and Santorini are limited or unavailable most years, and connecting through Athens takes longer than the ferry once you include airport transfers, security, waiting time, and baggage.
The ferry is not perfect, but it is the standard way to travel between Mykonos and Santorini.
Can You Do a Day Trip from Mykonos to Santorini?
Technically, it may be possible on some dates, but I do not recommend it. Ferry times, port transfers, delays, wind, and the distance between Athinios Port and Santorini’s main villages make it a poor day trip.
If you want to visit Santorini from Mykonos, stay at least one night. Two nights is better.
Mykonos to Santorini Ferry FAQ
Is there a direct ferry from Mykonos to Santorini?
Yes, there are direct seasonal ferries from Mykonos to Santorini. Some ferries may stop at other Cycladic islands along the way, but you do not need to change boats.
How long is the ferry from Mykonos to Santorini?
Most ferries take about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on the vessel, route, and sea conditions.
How much are Mykonos to Santorini ferry tickets?
Economy tickets start around €100, though prices vary by company, date, ferry, and seat class. Business and VIP seats cost more.
Do Mykonos to Santorini ferries sell out?
Yes, the best departures can sell out in July, August, and early September. Book early if you need a specific departure, are traveling with a group, or want Business/VIP seats.
What is the best website to book ferry tickets?
I recommend Ferryhopper.com because it compares ferry companies, schedules, prices, and seat classes in one place and handles e-tickets well.
Can I buy Mykonos to Santorini ferry tickets at the port?
Sometimes, but I do not recommend it in summer. Mykonos New Port is busy and exposed, and the best ferries or seat classes can sell out. Book online in advance.
Which ferry company is best?
SeaJets has the most options and fastest boats. Golden Star Ferries also operates the route seasonally. The best ferry is the largest high-speed boat at the time that fits your schedule.
Is the Mykonos to Santorini ferry rough?
It can be. This route crosses open Cycladic water and can be affected by the Meltemi winds, especially in summer. If you get seasick, choose a larger ferry, sit low and near the center, and take motion-sickness medication before boarding if you normally use it.
How early should I arrive at Mykonos New Port?
In summer, arrive about 45 minutes before departure. The port is windy and not especially comfortable, so arriving too early is not helpful unless your ferry company tells you otherwise.
Where do Mykonos to Santorini ferries depart from?
They depart from Mykonos New Port in Tourlos. This is different from the Old Port in Mykonos Town.
Where do Mykonos to Santorini ferries arrive?
They arrive at Athinios Port, Santorini’s main ferry port. This is different from the Old Port below Fira, which is used by cruise passengers and some Santorini boat tours.
Can you walk from Mykonos Town to Mykonos New Port?
I do not recommend it with luggage. Take the SeaBus, public bus, taxi, hotel transfer, or private transfer.
Can you walk from Athinios Port to Fira?
No. Athinios Port sits at the bottom of the caldera cliffs, and the road up to Fira is steep, busy, and not walkable for travelers. Take the bus, taxi, hotel transfer, or private transfer.
Is the ferry better than flying from Mykonos to Santorini?
Yes. Direct flights are limited or non-existent most years. Connecting through Athens takes longer than taking the ferry.
Can I take a car on the Mykonos to Santorini ferry?
Some ferries may carry vehicles, but many high-speed passenger ferries on this route have limited or no vehicle capacity. For most visitors, it is easier and cheaper to travel as a foot passenger and rent a vehicle separately on each island.
Is there luggage storage on the ferry?
Yes, ferries have luggage storage areas, on the vehicle deck or near the boarding area. Keep valuables, passports, medication, and electronics with you at your seat.
What happens if my ferry is delayed?
Delays happen, especially in windy weather or when a ferry is making several island stops. Do not schedule a flight, boat tour, or important reservation too close to your expected arrival time in Santorini.
What is the best month for the Mykonos to Santorini ferry?
June and September are the best months for a balance of good weather, frequent ferries, and slightly less intense crowds than July and August. July and August have the most demand and should be booked early.
Is the Mykonos to Santorini ferry scenic?
In theory yes (the islands are beautiful from the sea), in practice no. Most high-speed ferries are enclosed and not designed as sightseeing cruises. Book for convenience, not views.
Should I get the sugar donut on the Mykonos to Santorini ferry?
Absolutely yes. It is quite tasty.


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