Greece › Ferries › Paros to Santorini Ferry
Updated: July 24, 2026 • By Santorini Dave
See Also
Helpful Links
- Book ferry tickets: Ferryhopper.com
- Pre-booked Santorini transfers: Welcome Pickups
Passengers boarding the Blue Star Delos in Paros for Santorini.
The ferry from Paros to Santorini is one of the easiest and most popular island-hopping routes in Greece. Ferries depart from Parikia Port in Paros and arrive at Athinios Port in Santorini. The fastest ferries take about 1½ to 2 hours, while the large Blue Star ferry takes about 3 hours.
- Fastest: Large high-speed ferries operated by SeaJets or Golden Star Ferries.
- Best overall: Blue Star Ferries. They are cheaper, smoother, have outdoor decks, and are the best choice if you’re prone to seasickness.
- Departure port: Parikia Port.
- Arrival port: Athinios Ferry Port.
- When to arrive: At least 45 minutes before departure, or 60 minutes if traveling with a vehicle.
Which Ferry Should I Take?
If saving time matters most, choose one of the large high-speed ferries. They cut about an hour from the journey but cost more and provide a rougher ride when the Meltemi winds are blowing.
If I had the choice, I’d take the Blue Star ferry. It’s slower but noticeably more comfortable, has outdoor decks, costs less, and handles rough seas much better.
Avoid the smallest high-speed catamarans if you’re prone to motion sickness.
Parikia Ferry Port
All ferries leave from Parikia Port, the main port on Paros. The port sits beside the town center, making it an easy walk from most hotels in Parikia.
If you’re staying in Naoussa, allow about 25 to 35 minutes to reach the port by taxi or bus, and a little longer during busy summer afternoons.
Boarding is straightforward, but arrive early enough to locate your ferry and boarding lane before passengers begin lining up.
Tickets and Check-in
I use Ferryhopper to compare schedules and book tickets.
Book ahead once your travel dates are fixed, especially for June through September, weekends, holidays, and if you’re bringing a vehicle.
Most ferry companies now support online check-in and mobile boarding passes. Complete check-in before arriving at the port and save your QR code on your phone.
Check Paros to Santorini Ferry Times
Ferries run daily throughout most of the year, with the greatest choice from late spring through early fall. Summer schedules include both high-speed and conventional ferries, while winter service is more limited.
Journey times, vessels, prices, and departure times change throughout the season, so always check your exact travel date before making hotel or flight plans.
Example Paros-to-Santorini schedules on Ferryhopper.com. Check your travel date for current departures and prices.
Arriving at Santorini Ferry Port
Athinios Port is busy, crowded, and unlike most Greek island ports. It sits at the bottom of the caldera cliffs, with one narrow road connecting it to the rest of the island.
There are no hotels or towns within walking distance.
If your hotel offers pickup, use it. Otherwise, I recommend arranging a private transfer in advance, especially if you’re staying in Oia, Imerovigli, Kamari, Perissa, or another village outside Fira.
Public buses meet most arriving ferries and travel to the central bus station in Fira, where you transfer to buses serving the rest of the island.
Paros to Santorini Ferry FAQ
How long is the ferry from Paros to Santorini?
The fastest ferries take about 1½ to 2 hours. The large Blue Star ferry takes about 3 hours.
Which is the best ferry from Paros to Santorini?
I prefer Blue Star Ferries. They cost less, provide a smoother ride, have outdoor decks, and are the best choice for travelers who are prone to seasickness. High-speed ferries are worth paying extra for if saving an hour is important.
Should I book ferry tickets in advance?
Yes for summer travel, weekends, holidays, and vehicles. Foot passengers traveling outside peak season often have more flexibility, but it’s still best to book once your itinerary is finalized.
How early should I arrive?
Arrive about 45 minutes before departure, or about an hour early if you’re bringing a car or motorcycle.
Is the Paros to Santorini ferry rough?
It can be during strong summer winds. Large conventional ferries provide the smoothest crossing, while the smallest high-speed ferries are the roughest.
Can I take a rental car?
Most rental companies do not allow their cars on ferries without advance permission. Check with your rental company before booking a vehicle ticket.
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