Santorini to Crete Ferry Guide

Greece › Ferries › Santorini to Crete
Updated: July 25, 2026 • By Santorini Dave
Questions? dave@santorinidave.com

See Also

• Where to Stay in Santorini
• Santorini Ferry Port Guide
• Where to Stay in Crete
• Heraklion Ferry Port Guide

Most ferries from Santorini to Crete travel from Athinios Port to Heraklion. The fastest crossings take about 1½ hours, while slower ferries take 4 hours or longer. Limited seasonal service also runs to Rethymno. Heraklion is the best arrival port for most travelers, but the ferry’s late arrival can make an overnight stay there more practical than continuing immediately to Chania, Elounda, or southern Crete.

Helpful Links

• Compare ferry schedules and buy tickets: Ferryhopper
• Pre-booked transfers to Santorini Athinios Port: Welcome Pickups

Santorini-to-Crete Ferries: My Tips

• Best route for most travelers: Santorini to Heraklion. It has the most frequent service and the best connections to the rest of Crete.
• Best route for western Crete: Check the limited Rethymno ferry when staying in Rethymno or Chania. Use Heraklion when the sailing date does not fit your itinerary.
• Fastest crossing: About 1½ hours to Heraklion. Slower ferries take 4 hours or longer, so compare travel time as well as price.
• Departure pattern: The most useful Crete-bound ferries commonly leave Santorini in the afternoon and reach Crete in the early evening.
• No practical day trip: Crete-bound ferries arrive too late for meaningful sightseeing and a return to Santorini on the same day.
• Getting to Athinios: Take the port bus from Fira or arrange a direct hotel pickup or transfer. Do not rely on finding a last-minute taxi.
• After arriving: Stay in Heraklion when your ferry arrives late unless you have a confirmed rental car, private transfer, or workable intercity bus.
• Seasickness: Choose the largest ferry available. The crossing can be rough in either direction during strong winds.

Current Santorini to Crete Ferry Information

• Main route: Santorini’s Athinios port to Heraklion.
• Fastest crossing to Heraklion: About 1 hour 30 minutes.
• Ticket prices: High-speed ferry fares start around €110 one-way. Slower conventional ferries can be much cheaper, but they run less frequently and often depart at inconvenient hours.
• Schedule: Heraklion ferries run from April to early November, with 2 to 3 daily crossings during the main season.
• Rethymno service: Ferries operate from May through October once or twice per week.

Should You Take the Ferry to Heraklion or Rethymno?

Heraklion: Best for Most Travelers

Heraklion is the main arrival port and the safest choice around which to build an itinerary. It has the most frequent ferry service, the best connections with eastern and central Crete, and the widest choice of hotels, rental cars, buses, and private transfers.

Choose Heraklion when staying in:

• Heraklion city.
• Hersonissos, Stalis, or Malia.
• Agios Nikolaos or Elounda.
• Eastern or central Crete.
• Southern Crete.
• Chania or Rethymno when no suitable Rethymno ferry operates.

Heraklion is also the better choice when you plan to fly from Heraklion Airport or begin a driving itinerary through Crete.

Rethymno: Best When the Limited Schedule Fits

Rethymno is a useful seasonal alternative for travelers staying in Rethymno or Chania. The port is close to central Rethymno, and arriving there avoids the road journey from Heraklion back across western Crete.

The drawback is frequency. Ferries operate only on selected days from May through October, and tickets are expensive.

Choose Rethymno when:

• The ferry operates on your intended travel date.
• You are staying in Rethymno or western Crete.
• The arrival time works with your hotel or onward transfer.
• A shorter road journey matters more than finding the lowest fare.

Do not rearrange several days of your trip around the Rethymno ferry. When the schedule does not fit naturally, take the ferry to Heraklion.

Can You Take a Ferry Directly to Chania?

There is no regular direct ferry from Santorini to Chania. Travelers heading to Chania should use Rethymno when its limited service matches their date. Otherwise, take the ferry to Heraklion and continue by rental car, private transfer, or intercity bus. The drive from Heraklion to Chania takes about 2 to 2½ hours. A late ferry arrival makes an overnight stay in Heraklion much less stressful.

Can You Take a Ferry Directly to Agios Nikolaos?

There is no regular direct ferry from Santorini to Agios Nikolaos. Arrive in Heraklion and continue east by road. The drive from Heraklion Port takes roughly 60 to 75 minutes to Agios Nikolaos and 75 to 90 minutes to Elounda. Confirm that your rental-car office or transfer service will still be operating when the ferry arrives.

Getting to Santorini Athinios Ferry Port

Athinios sits at the bottom of Santorini’s caldera cliffs, about 20 to 30 minutes by road from Fira in normal traffic. It is not within walking distance of any major hotel area. The port road becomes congested when several ferries arrive or depart close together. Leave more time than the map suggests.

Public Bus from Fira

Public buses leave from Fira’s central bus station and are scheduled around ferry departures. The current fare is €2.70. Check the official schedule or visit the station the day before travel. Port-bus times change with the ferry timetable and might not appear far in advance.

In July and August:

• Reach the Fira bus station early.
• Expect a line and crowded luggage storage.
• Do not plan to arrive just before the listed departure.
• Keep your phone, wallet, and passport with you rather than in stored luggage.

The bus is the best budget option for travelers staying in Fira or arriving there on a connecting route.

From Oia, Imerovigli, Firostefani, Kamari, or Perissa

Public buses from Santorini’s towns run through Fira. This means changing buses and allowing time between connections. A direct hotel transfer is easier with luggage, children, an early departure, or a tight ferry check-in time. It is particularly helpful from Oia, which is on the opposite end of the island from Athinios.

Taxi, Hotel Pickup, or Private Transfer

Santorini has too few taxis for summer demand. Reserve one ahead rather than expecting to find a vehicle shortly before departure. Many hotels arrange port pickups and drop-offs. Confirm the price and pickup time before booking another service. I use Welcome Pickups for pre-booked transfers.

Returning a Rental Car

Do not assume you can return a rental car directly at Athinios. Some agencies maintain port offices, while others arrange a representative to meet departing customers.

How Long Is the Ferry from Santorini to Crete?

The fastest Santorini-to-Heraklion ferries take about 1½ hours. Most useful high-speed crossings take roughly 1½ to 2½ hours. Slower sailings take 4 hours or longer. These can cost much less, but the saving might not justify losing most of an afternoon or evening. The seasonal ferry from Santorini to Rethymno takes about 2 hours 20 minutes.

How Much Is the Ferry from Santorini to Crete?

Ticket prices vary sharply according to vessel, route, date, and seat class.

• High-speed ferries: Fares start at €110 one way.
• Cheapest tickets: Slower conventional sailings to Heraklion can be much cheaper.
• Rethymno ferries: Use high-speed vessels and cost more than €120.
• Premium seating: Business and VIP tickets cost extra but provide more space and less crowding.
• Vehicles: Require a separate ticket and should be reserved early.

Which Ferry and Seat Should You Choose?

Choose the Largest Suitable Ferry

A large vessel is the best choice for travelers worried about seasickness. Small high-speed catamarans react more sharply to rough water than large high-speed ships or conventional ferries.

When comparing departures, look at:

• Vessel length and passenger capacity.
• Total travel time.
• Arrival time in Crete.
• Available seat classes.

Standard, Business, or VIP Seating

Standard seating is adequate for most travelers on the fastest crossings. Business and VIP areas provide more room, less crowding, and a calmer cabin.

The upgrade is most useful for:

• Travelers who dislike crowded seating.
• Families who want a quieter space.
• Passengers working during the crossing.
• Anyone taking one of the longer sailings.

It is not essential for every passenger on a 1½-hour trip.

When to Book Ferry Tickets

From June through September, book once your dates are firm. The most convenient departures, largest ferries, premium seats, and vehicle spaces sell out first.

• July and August: Book early when your itinerary depends on one particular ferry.
• June and September: Advance booking is still important for a specific departure or Rethymno sailing.
• May and October: Availability is better, but seasonal service runs less frequently.
• November through April: Check the schedule before arranging the rest of your Crete itinerary.

Ferry fares do not change prices like airfares, but waiting reduces your choice of departure, vessel, and seat.

How to Buy Tickets and Use E-Tickets

I use Ferryhopper to compare schedules, travel times, vessel sizes, prices, and seat classes.

After booking:

• Read the ferry company’s check-in instructions.
• Complete online check-in when it opens.
• Download the boarding pass or QR code.
• Save a screenshot or PDF that works without mobile service.
• Bring the identification used for the reservation.

All major ferry companies support mobile boarding passes, but procedures differ. A booking confirmation is not always the final boarding pass.

Boarding, Luggage, and Food

Arrive at Athinios 45 to 60 minutes before departure. Allow more time when returning a rental car, traveling in peak summer, or arriving by connecting public bus. Boarding begins quickly and can feel chaotic. Follow the signs and crew instructions for your ferry rather than joining the first visible line. Large suitcases go in luggage racks near the ferry entrance or vehicle deck. Passengers carry their own luggage onboard, and bags are not checked as they are at an airport.

Keep these items with you:

• Passport or identification.
• Phone and wallet.
• Medication.
• Electronics and cameras.
• Anything needed during the crossing.

Ferries have cafés selling drinks, coffee, sandwiches, and snacks. Bring water and a small snack anyway, particularly when traveling with children or dietary restrictions.

Wind, Seasickness, Delays, and Cancellations

The sea between Santorini and Crete becomes rough during strong winds, especially when the Meltemi is blowing in July and August.

If you are prone to seasickness:

• Choose the largest ferry available.
• Sit low and near the middle of the vessel.
• Avoid reading or staring at your phone while the ferry is moving.
• Eat lightly and avoid alcohol before sailing.
• Take motion-sickness medication according to the package instructions or medical advice.

Strong winds also cause delays and occasional cancellations. Check messages from the operator before leaving your hotel. A delay matters more in this direction because it can cause you to miss a rental-car pickup, private transfer, or final bus in Crete. Avoid an onward plan with no margin for disruption.

Arriving at Heraklion Ferry Port

Heraklion Port sits immediately east of the city center. Central hotels, restaurants, and the main tourist area are close enough to reach on foot or by a short taxi ride.

Walking to Central Heraklion

The walk to central Heraklion takes roughly 10 to 25 minutes, depending on the hotel and ferry berth. Walking is reasonable with light luggage. Take a taxi with large suitcases, young children, mobility limitations, or extreme heat.

The GDM Megaron is one of the most convenient hotels for ferry passengers and overlooks the port.

See my Heraklion hotel guide for more options.

Heraklion Airport

Heraklion Airport is about 3 km east of the port. A taxi takes roughly 10 to 15 minutes in normal traffic. Do not book a flight shortly after the scheduled ferry arrival. Disembarkation, luggage, traffic, ferry delays, and airport check-in leave little margin for error.

Rental Cars

Heraklion has rental-car offices at the port, in the city, and at the airport. Their closing times and pickup procedures differ. Do not assume a reservation listed as “Heraklion” means the car will be waiting at the ferry terminal.

Buses to Rethymno and Chania

Intercity buses connect Heraklion with Rethymno and Chania, but an evening ferry arrival might not match the final departure. Check the current bus schedule before committing to same-day onward travel. Allow time to disembark, collect luggage, and reach the appropriate bus station. When the connection is tight, stay overnight in Heraklion and travel west the next morning.

Continuing to Agios Nikolaos or Elounda

Agios Nikolaos is roughly 60 to 75 minutes from Heraklion by road. Elounda takes about 75 to 90 minutes. A confirmed rental car or private transfer is the easiest plan after an evening arrival. Public transport involves more waiting and might require a connection.

Continuing to Southern Crete

Reaching Matala, Agia Galini, Plakias, Ierapetra, or another south-coast destination involves mountain roads and travel times that look shorter on a map than they feel in practice. Avoid a long unfamiliar drive after a late ferry unless you are comfortable driving in darkness. An overnight stay in Heraklion is often the better choice.

Arriving at Rethymno Ferry Port

Rethymno Port is close to the Old Town and central hotels. If you’re staying in Rethymno it’s very convenient. The port is also closer to Chania, but Chania is still about an hour away by road. Arrange a rental car, private transfer, or workable bus connection before leaving Santorini.

Can You Take a Day Trip from Santorini to Crete?

A practical day trip works from Crete to Santorini, not from Santorini to Crete. Crete-bound ferries leave Santorini too late to provide meaningful sightseeing time and the return ferry does not depart until the next morning. Even a one night stay gives you barely a few hours of light to explore. For any visit spend at least two nights in Heraklion. Three or more nights are better if you want to see Knossos, central Heraklion, or another part of Crete.

Ferry or Flight from Santorini to Crete?

The ferry is the standard connection between Santorini and Crete. Direct flights are limited and inconsistent, while indirect flights through Athens add time and inconvenience.

A high-speed ferry reaches Heraklion in about 1½ to 2½ hours without airport security, baggage collection, or a connection in Athens.

Check flights only when:

• A direct seasonal service operates on your date.
• The flight time fits your itinerary substantially better.
• You are connecting directly to another flight.
• Rough-sea travel is a serious concern.

For most travelers, the ferry is simpler.

Should You Take a Car on the Ferry?

Most travelers should return their Santorini rental car before sailing and rent another vehicle in Crete.

Many rental companies prohibit taking cars on ferries without written permission. A vehicle ticket adds cost, vehicle spaces sell out, and one-way rental arrangements between islands are rarely practical.

If taking your own car or a rental vehicle with written permission:

• Book vehicle space early.
• Enter the correct vehicle dimensions.
• Arrive at least one hour before departure.
• Bring the registration, insurance, and driving documents.
• Remove valuables and anything needed during the crossing.

Best Santorini and Crete Itinerary Direction

The route works particularly well as part of this itinerary:

Athens or Mykonos → Naxos or Paros → Santorini → Crete

Finishing in Crete makes sense when flying home from Heraklion or Chania. It also puts the smaller islands first and gives Crete, the largest and most varied destination, a longer stay at the end.

The main drawback is the late ferry arrival. Do not plan a long drive across Crete immediately after disembarking unless the ferry arrives early and your onward transport is confirmed.

Common Ferries from Santorini to Crete

Vessel assignments change by date and season. These photos show examples of large high-speed ferries used on Santorini and Crete routes.

Santorini to Crete Ferry FAQ

What is the best ferry route from Santorini to Crete?

Santorini to Heraklion is best for most travelers. It has the most frequent service and the best road, bus, hotel, rental-car, and airport connections.

How long is the ferry from Santorini to Heraklion?

The fastest ferries take about 1½ hours. Most high-speed crossings take roughly 1½ to 2½ hours, while slower services take 4 hours or longer.

Are there ferries from Santorini to Rethymno?

Yes. Limited seasonal service runs from May through October on selected days. The crossing takes about 2 hours 20 minutes.

Are there ferries from Santorini to Chania?

There is no regular direct service. Use Rethymno when the limited ferry matches your date, or sail to Heraklion and continue west by road.

How do I get from Fira to Athinios Port?

Take the public port bus from Fira’s central bus station or arrange a direct taxi, hotel pickup, or private transfer. The current public-bus fare is €2.70.

How early should I arrive at Athinios Port?

Arrive 45 to 60 minutes before departure. Allow more time when returning a rental car or traveling during peak summer.

Is the Santorini-to-Crete ferry rough?

It can be rough during strong winds. Choose the largest ferry available and sit low near the middle of the vessel if motion sickness is a concern.

Should I stay overnight in Heraklion?

Yes, when the ferry arrives late and you do not have confirmed onward transport. Central Heraklion is close to the port and makes a convenient first-night base.

Can I take a day trip from Santorini to Crete?

Not as a practical ferry trip. Crete-bound ferries arrive too late for a same-day return.

Can I take a Santorini rental car to Crete?

Only with written permission from the rental company. Renting separate cars on Santorini and Crete is easier for most travelers.

Read More

• Greek Ferry Guide
• Santorini Ferry Port Guide
• Where to Stay in Santorini
• Crete to Santorini Ferry Guide
• Heraklion Ferry Port Guide
• Best Hotels in Heraklion
• Where to Stay in Crete